TLDR
- Decide on the specific food or beverage products you plan to manufacture.
- Choose a suitable mainland location that meets industrial and safety standards.
- Register your company with the Department of Economic Development (DED).
- Obtain necessary approvals from Dubai Municipality, Food Safety Department, and Civil Defence.
- Apply for and receive your Food & Beverage Manufacturing Licence to begin operations.
Starting a food and beverage manufacturing business in Dubai can be a great step toward long-term success.
With a growing market, strong infrastructure, and helpful government support, many people are choosing this path.
If you are planning a business setup in Dubai, getting a Food & Beverage Manufacturing Licence is one of the most important steps.
In this blog, we will explain how to get this licence for a mainland company formation in Dubai, using a simple step-by-step method.
What Is a Food & Beverage Manufacturing Licence?
A Food & Beverage Manufacturing Licence allows you to make and package food or drinks for selling in Dubai and other places.
This licence is issued by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED), along with approvals from other government bodies such as Dubai Municipality and the Food Safety Department.
If your business is located on the mainland, you can sell directly to the local market without using agents. This is one reason why mainland company formation in Dubai is very popular for food and beverage businesses.
Step-by-Step Process to Get the Licence
Here is a step-by-step process to get your license on the mainland.
1. Choose Your Business Activity
First, decide what kind of food or drinks you want to make. This could include:
- Packaged foods
- Baked goods
- Bottled drinks
- Sauces or condiments
- Dairy or meat products
Each product type may need special approval, so be clear about your plans from the start.
2. Select a Mainland Location
For business setup in Dubai, you must pick a location that suits manufacturing.
Your facility must meet health and safety standards, and you need space for machines, storage, and staff.
You can either rent or buy a warehouse or industrial unit in a mainland area.
3. Register Your Company
You must register your business with the Department of Economic Development (DED). This includes:
- Picking a trade name
- Choosing a legal structure (like LLC)
- Getting initial approval
- Signing a lease for your space
- Completing the company registration process
This is the base of mainland company formation in Dubai.
4. Apply for Food Safety and Health Approvals
Once your business is registered, you must get approvals from:
- Dubai Municipality – For layout plans, hygiene standards, and equipment
- Food Control Department – To make sure your facility follows food safety rules
- Civil Defense – To confirm your location has proper fire and safety systems
These checks are important before you get the final licence.
5. Get Your Industrial Licence
After you meet all the requirements, DED will issue your Food & Beverage Manufacturing Licence. You can then start manufacturing, packaging, and selling your products legally in Dubai and beyond.
Cost of Getting the Licence
The cost of setting up depends on:
- The size and type of your business
- Your location
- Number of employees
- Special equipment or machinery
On average, you can expect setup costs to start from AED 50,000 and go higher based on your business model.
Quickplus Business Consultants can guide you at each step, so you can plan your budget properly and avoid delays.
Final Words
Getting a Food & Beverage Manufacturing Licence on the mainland is a big but rewarding step.
With proper planning, approvals, and support, your business can grow smoothly in Dubai’s active food market.
Whether you are starting fresh or expanding an existing brand, mainland company formation in Dubai gives you full access to local and global customers.
If you are ready for your business setup in Dubai, our team at Quickplus Business Consultants is here to help you from start to finish. Contact us today to get started.
