
Grocery & Mini‑Mart Licensing in Dubai: New Regulations for…
Grocery & Mini‑Mart Licensing in Dubai: New Regulations for 2025
Start Your Grocery Store or Supermarket in Dubai – Legally & Confidently
As Dubai’s population grows and neighborhoods expand, grocery stores and mini-marts remain one of the most essential and profitable small businesses. In 2025, updated regulations have streamlined the process—but also introduced new compliance checks every investor should know.
Whether you want to open a small convenience store or a full-scale supermarket, here’s your step-by-step guide to getting licensed and operational in Dubai.
✅ Why Start a Grocery Business in Dubai?
Daily Consumer Demand
High ROI in Residential Areas
Flexible Sizes – From Mini-Mart to Hypermarket
Supports Additional Services (Bakery, ATM, Utility Bill Payments)
🏪 Types of Grocery Store Licenses in Dubai
- Grocery Store License (DED Mainland)
- Mini-Mart/Convenience Store License (DED or Free Zones)
- Supermarket License (for larger setups above 2,000 sq.ft.)
- Specialty Food Stores – Organic, imported, or ethnic groceries
📋 Steps to Get Your Grocery License in Dubai
- Choose Business Jurisdiction
- Mainland (DED) – ideal for local neighborhood stores
- Free Zone – for wholesale or import-based businesses
- Reserve Your Trade Name
- Get Initial Approval from DED
- Find & Approve a Shop Location
Must meet zoning & hygiene standards - Obtain Food Safety Clearance
Dubai Municipality approval required for food sale/storage - Submit Documents & Pay License Fees
- Install POS and Open Bank Account
📄 Required Documents
- Passport copy of owner/partners
- Emirates ID & Visa (for UAE residents)
- Business plan & tenancy contract
- Trade name reservation
- Initial approval from DED
- Ejari (tenancy contract registration)
💰 Cost of Setting Up a Grocery Store in Dubai (2025)
Business Type | Estimated Setup Cost |
---|---|
Mini-Mart (Mainland) | AED 15,000 – AED 25,000 |
Medium Grocery Store | AED 25,000 – AED 45,000 |
Supermarket License | AED 50,000+ (including approvals & fit-out) |
Note: These exclude rent and inventory. We offer full package support including license, location, and staffing.
🚀 Add-on Services You Can Offer
- Mobile Recharge & Bill Payments
- Fresh Produce & Dairy
- ATM Services (via banks)
- Online Grocery Delivery Integration
- Loyalty Programs & Promotions
📣 Need Help with Licensing & Setup?
We help entrepreneurs like you navigate approvals, find locations, secure licensing, and launch your store with full support.
✅ Why Choose Us?
- 1000+ Successful Retail Business Setups
- Experts in Food Licensing & Dubai Municipality Approvals
- Transparent Pricing & End-to-End Service
- Quick Turnaround – License in 3–5 working days
📞 Ready to Open Your Grocery or Mini-Mart in Dubai?
Let’s turn your retail vision into reality.
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