How to Start a Floating Restaurant in Dubai: Complete…

by Beyond View

How to Start a Floating Restaurant in Dubai: Complete Business Guide 2025

Dubai’s thriving tourism, luxurious lifestyle, and scenic waterfronts make it the perfect destination to launch a floating restaurant. As experiential dining becomes more popular, opening a restaurant on water not only sets you apart but also offers high returns. Here’s your step-by-step guide to setting up a floating restaurant in Dubai in 2025.

1. Understand the Business Potential

Floating restaurants combine fine dining with an unforgettable marine experience. Whether docked or mobile, these venues attract tourists, private event planners, and locals seeking something unique.

Key Advantages:

High tourist footfall and global appeal
Premium pricing and experiential branding
Strong support from marine and tourism authorities in Dubai

2. Choose the Right Legal Structure

To operate legally, you must register your business under a valid license.

Options include:

Mainland License: For broader local market access and government tenders
Free Zone License (with mainland approvals): May require coordination with DED and DMCA

Key Authorities Involved:

Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA)
Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET)
Dubai Municipality
Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)

3. Licensing & Permits Required

A floating restaurant requires approvals from both food and maritime authorities.

Core Licenses:

Commercial Trade License (Hospitality/F&B)
Food Safety and Health Permits (Dubai Municipality)
Vessel Registration (Marine Transport License – DMCA/RTA)
Environment & Waste Management Clearance
Fire & Safety Compliance Certificate

4. Select the Right Vessel

You can buy, lease, or convert an existing marine vessel into a floating restaurant. Ensure it complies with marine safety and hospitality regulations.

Key Vessel Requirements:

Certified kitchen space
Fire safety systems
Marine waste disposal
Guest capacity & stability certification
Life jackets, emergency systems, crew requirements

5. Choose a Prime Location

Location is key to attracting high-spending customers and tourists.

Popular Zones:

Dubai Marina
Dubai Creek
Jumeirah Beach
Business Bay Canal
Palm Jumeirah waterfront

6. Fit-Out, Interiors & Staffing

Design a premium, marine-safe dining space with an experienced marine architect. Hire staff certified in hospitality and safety procedures.

Tips:

Use rust-proof, marine-grade materials
Train staff in marine emergency protocols
Offer multi-cuisine or themed dining for higher appeal

7. Marketing & Launch Strategy

Promote your floating restaurant as a luxury, one-of-a-kind experience.

Marketing Tactics:

Launch events with influencers & media
Partner with tourism companies & hotel concierges
Offer bookings via apps & travel platforms
Focus on social media, drone videos, and sunset cruise experiences

Estimated Investment & Timelines

Initial Investment: AED 1.2M – AED 3.5M (Depending on vessel size, customization, licenses, and location)
Setup Time: 3 to 6 months

Starting a floating restaurant in Dubai in 2025 is a promising venture for entrepreneurs looking to tap into the luxury dining and tourism sectors. With the right approvals, marine safety compliance, and a compelling dining concept, your restaurant can sail into success—quite literally.