
Starting a juice bar business in Dubai is an exciting opportunity. The city is full of health-conscious residents, tourists, and expats who enjoy fresh, organic, and cold-pressed juices. But to legally operate, you need a juice bar license in Dubai, UAE.
This guide explains how to get the license, what approvals are required, the cost involved, and everything else you need to know to launch your juice business in Dubai smoothly and successfully.
Why Start a Juice Bar in Dubai?
Dubai’s population is young, diverse, and health-focused. Whether it’s a busy professional grabbing a detox shot or a fitness enthusiast ordering post-workout smoothies, the demand is growing.
Opening a juice bar gives you the chance to:
Tap into a growing wellness trend
More people are choosing plant-based and natural diets. Cold-pressed juices, detox blends, and organic smoothies are becoming part of daily routines.
Offer something fresh and unique
From açai bowls to immunity boosters, Dubai is the perfect place to bring creative recipes to life. With the right business plan and legal setup, your juice shop can stand out.
Understanding the Juice Bar License in Dubai
To run any food-related business, you need to get a trade license in Dubai. For a juice bar, this falls under non-alcoholic beverage trading or juice bar activity depending on where you set up.
You can apply for a juice bar license through the Department of Economic Development (DED) if you’re operating on the mainland. If you plan to set up inside a Free Zone, you’ll need to apply through that respective authority.
Mainland vs Free Zone – Which is Better for Your Juice Bar?
Mainland Setup
- You can serve customers across all of Dubai and even the UAE.
- Better if you want to open a physical juice bar in a mall, gym, or high street.
- You’ll apply through the DED.
- You may need external approvals from Dubai Municipality and Food Control Department.
Free Zone Setup
- Ideal for online juice delivery, cloud kitchens, or export-based juice products.
- 100% foreign ownership.
- Less paperwork, but you’re restricted to selling within the zone or through local distributors.
- No need for a local partner.
Steps to Get a Juice Bar License in Dubai, UAE
Starting a juice business in Dubai means going through a clear but detailed process. Here’s how to do it.
Choose the Right Legal Structure
You can start your juice bar as:
- Sole Establishment
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Branch of a foreign company
- Free Zone Entity
Most people go with an LLC on the mainland or a Free Zone FZE for 100% ownership.
Decide Your Location
- If you want to set up inside a mall, gym, or roadside outlet — go for Mainland.
- If you plan to do only online juice delivery, then a Free Zone juice business might be enough.
Reserve a Trade Name
You’ll need a unique business name that reflects your brand and activity. Make sure it doesn’t use religious terms or words like “Emirates,” “Dubai,” etc., unless approved.
Example names:
- FreshFuel Juices
- Vital Blend Dubai
- Urban Squeeze
Apply for Initial Approval
Submit your documents to get initial approval from the DED or Free Zone. This confirms that the government allows you to proceed with this business activity.
Documents usually needed:
- Passport copies of owners
- Entry stamp or residence visa (if applicable)
- Business plan (sometimes)
Get External Approvals
For a juice bar, you must get approval from:
- Dubai Municipality – Food Safety Department
- Civil Defense (if your outlet uses electric juicers, blenders, etc.)
- Health & Safety (for staff training and certification)
Rent a Shop or Kitchen Space
You need a tenancy contract and Ejari registration if you’re setting up a physical location. Make sure your space complies with:
- Waste disposal rules
- Clean water access
- Ventilation and drainage
- Food storage and prep zones
Submit Final Application
Now, submit your final set of documents including:
- Tenancy Contract + Ejari
- Trade Name Certificate
- Initial Approval Letter
- Approval from Municipality
- Emirates ID (if applicable)
Once reviewed and approved, you’ll get your Juice Bar License in Dubai issued!
Cost of Getting a Juice Bar License in Dubai
The total cost varies depending on your setup, location, and space size. Here’s an estimate.
Estimated Setup Cost
- Trade License (DED or Free Zone): AED 12,000 – AED 25,000
- Municipality Approval & Food Safety Permit: AED 5,000 – AED 10,000
- Ejari & Tenancy Contract: AED 10,000 – AED 40,000 (depending on location)
- Interior Fit-out & Equipment: AED 20,000 – AED 60,000
- Marketing & Branding: AED 5,000 – AED 15,000
Total Investment: AED 50,000 – AED 150,000
Timeframe to Get a Juice Bar License
If your documents are ready and location is finalized, it can take around:
- 7 to 10 days for mainland setup
- 10 to 14 days for Free Zone
- More time if external approvals are delayed
Requirements to Open a Juice Bar in Dubai
You must follow all local health and safety rules before you can open doors.
Mandatory Requirements
- Health Cards for all employees who handle food
- Food Code Compliance for your premises
- Proper handwashing stations
- Fridge & Freezer capacity for storing perishable items
- Waste disposal system
Popular Juice Bar Activities You Can Apply For
When applying for your license, you can choose among these activities:
- Non-Alcoholic Beverage Trading
- Fresh Juice Preparation
- Smoothie and Detox Bar
- Beverage Production and Packaging (if you’re bottling your own juice)
You can also apply for delivery service activity if you’re planning on using online delivery platforms.
Can You Sell Juices from Home in Dubai?
No. Selling juices from home is not allowed unless you have a proper cloud kitchen license or operate from a licensed kitchen facility. The Dubai Municipality does not allow any food to be prepared and sold from private homes.
If you’re a home-based entrepreneur, consider setting up in a Free Zone with a virtual kitchen or delivery-only license.
Marketing Tips for Your Juice Bar Business
Getting licensed is just the start. Here’s how to grow your brand fast:
Brand Identity
Create a strong logo, packaging, and store design that feels fresh and modern.
Loyalty Programs
Encourage repeat customers with juice punch cards or subscription discounts.
Partner with Gyms & Yoga Studios
Offer exclusive deals to members or co-create wellness packages.
Instagram + Google Business Profile
Show off colorful drinks and happy customers. Collect real reviews.
Renewing Your Juice Bar License in Dubai
Your trade license and permits need yearly renewal. Here’s how to stay compliant:
- Renew your DED or Free Zone license
- Renew food safety certificates
- Maintain health cards for all staff
- Schedule regular cleaning and pest control
Challenges and Tips for Success
Challenges
- High competition in prime locations
- Initial setup costs
- Keeping up with health inspections
Tips
- Focus on unique recipes like activated charcoal or keto-friendly juices
- Use sustainable packaging (glass bottles, compostable cups)
- Offer combo deals (juice + snack) to boost value per customer
- Create seasonal menus (summer coolers, winter immunity shots)
Conclusion
Getting a Juice Bar License in Dubai, UAE is one of the best ways to enter the thriving food and wellness industry. Whether you plan to run a stylish café, a cloud kitchen, or a delivery-based brand, the key is proper legal setup and hygiene compliance. Once licensed, your business can grow through smart marketing, creative menus, and consistent quality.
If you’re serious about starting a juice bar, invest in the right location, staff, and food safety practices. Follow the licensing steps, and your business will be ready to blend, bottle, and serve success.
FAQs
How much does it cost to open a juice bar in Dubai?
The total cost ranges from AED 50,000 to AED 150,000, depending on your location, size, and business model.
Can I open a juice bar in a mall or food court?
Yes, but you need a mainland license and Dubai Municipality approvals. Rent and setup costs may be higher in such spaces.
Can I run a juice delivery business from a Free Zone?
Yes. Free Zones allow juice production and delivery, but you’ll need to comply with food safety regulations and possibly partner with a local distributor for mainland deliveries.
What documents are required to get a juice bar license in Dubai?
You’ll need: passport copies, trade name certificate, initial approvals, tenancy contract (Ejari), and approvals from Dubai Municipality and Food Safety Department.
How long does the licensing process take?
Usually between 7 to 14 working days, depending on how fast you get approvals and documentation.
Can I get 100% ownership of my juice bar business?
Yes. Thanks to the new UAE business laws, you can own 100% of your mainland or free zone juice bar business.