The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a global hub for tourism, hospitality, and lifestyle experiences. This growth has directly fueled a booming beverage-serving industry, characterised by a diverse range of businesses catering to a diverse clientele. Businesses in the beverage serving industry can act as hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars and lounges, or even mobile beverage vendors. Beverage catering is also an essential part of events, weddings, and corporate functions.
In the UAE, increasing disposable incomes and a focus on lifestyle experiences have led to a higher demand for premium beverages. Along with this, the presence of a large expatriate population with diverse tastes and preferences has contributed to the industry’s growth.
Entrepreneurs looking to set up a business in the beverages industry can choose the following business activities under their business license.
5630.00 – Beverage serving activities
Beverage serving activities encompass a wide range of businesses that provide various types of beverages to consumers. These businesses can operate in diverse settings, from casual cafés to upscale bars and lounges. Key components of this business include the sourcing, purchasing, or preparation of beverages, along with serving, inventory management, and customer service. It may also occasionally include barista training or mixology training.
This business excludes the reselling of packaged/prepared beverages and the operation of discotheques and dance floors without beverage serving.
Third-party Approval: Third-party approval from the Food Safety Department (Sharjah Municipality) is required for business activity 5630.00, post obtaining your trade license
Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 5630.00 is exempt from this requirement
Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 5630.00 is exempt from this requirement
5630.01 – Coffee shops
Coffee shops have become a staple in modern society, offering a cosy atmosphere, delicious beverages, and a place to relax or work. As a business, operating a coffee shop requires a combination of passion for coffee, strong customer service skills, and a strong understanding of the industry. Key activities include coffee procurement, roasting and brewing, food service, customer service, and marketing and promotion to ensure you find the right customer base for your business. Factors to consider when starting your business include location, branding, menu, equipment, and staff training.
This business excludes the reselling of packaged/prepared beverages and the operation of discotheques and dance floors without beverage serving.
Third-party Approval: Third-party approval from the Food Safety Department (Sharjah Municipality) is required for business activity 5630.01, post obtaining your trade license
Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 5630.01 is exempt from this requirement
Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 5630.01 is exempt from this requirement
5630.02 – Mobile beverage vendors
Mobile beverage vendors, often seen as food trucks or carts, offer a convenient and flexible way to serve a variety of beverages to customers. This business model has gained popularity due to its ability to cater to events, festivals, and busy urban areas. Important components of this business include vehicle purchase or rental, getting equipment and supplies, beverage selection, and location selection along with a strong marketing strategy. Types of mobile beverage vendors include coffee trucks, smoothie bars, tea carts, and cold brew bars amongst many others.
This business excludes the reselling of packaged/prepared beverages and the operation of discotheques and dance floors without beverage serving.
Third-party Approval: Third-party approval from the Food Safety Department (Sharjah Municipality) is required for business activity 5630.02, post obtaining your trade license
Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 5630.02 is exempt from this requirement
Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 5630.02 is exempt from this requirement
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