Shisha Cafe Approvals in Dubai

The approval process follows a clear sequence, but each stage must be completed correctly. Missing even one requirement can lead to rejection or long delays.

Below is the standard step-by-step structure for shisha cafe license approval in Dubai.

Step 1: Business Activity & Trade License Setup (DED)

Before applying for shisha approval, your business must have the correct trade license activity. If you’re opening a new business, the trade license will be created during this stage. If you’re already operating a restaurant, you may need to add shisha activity to your existing license.

This step typically includes:

• Trade name reservation
• Business activity selection
• Initial approval from DED
• Legal structure setup (LLC / sole establishment)
• License issuance or license modification

A trade license alone does not allow shisha service. Shisha is considered a regulated activity and requires separate municipal clearance.

Step 2: Location Selection & Zoning Feasibility Check

Your shisha café approval depends heavily on location. Dubai Municipality has strict zoning rules and restrictions based on the surrounding area.

We assist with a feasibility review to confirm if your location is eligible before you invest in fit-out and equipment.

This stage covers:

• Commercial zoning validation
• Suitability for smoking-related activity
• Distance restrictions (where applicable)
• Property layout assessment
• Landlord and building NOC availability

Choosing the wrong location is one of the biggest reasons shisha license applications fail.

Step 3: Tenancy Contract (Ejari) & NOC Collection

Before submitting most approval applications, you will need:

• Tenancy contract (Ejari)
• Landlord NOC or building management approval
• Location map and unit details

Many landlords refuse shisha businesses due to smoke-related concerns, ventilation load, and building restrictions. We help coordinate the required NOCs early so you don’t waste time later.

Step 4: Layout Drawings & Engineering Plan Submission

Dubai Municipality requires proper layout drawings before approving a shisha café. These are not basic sketches—they must be professional plans that match the real site layout.

Typical drawings required include:

• Floor plan layout
• Seating arrangement plan
• Shisha preparation zone plan
• Smoking area segregation
• Kitchen plan (if food is served)
• Washroom and drainage plan
• Emergency exit access

At this stage, the ventilation and smoke extraction design becomes extremely important.

Step 5: Ventilation & Smoke Extraction System Approval

Ventilation is one of the most critical parts of Dubai shisha cafe approval. Authorities evaluate whether your café can safely manage smoke extraction without affecting nearby businesses or residents.

Dubai Municipality typically checks:

• Airflow system capacity
• Exhaust duct routing
• Smoke extraction equipment specification
• Filtration requirements (if applicable)
• Fresh air intake system
• Compliance with building ventilation standards

If the ventilation system is poorly designed, your approval may be delayed or rejected. We ensure your ventilation design meets expected compliance requirements before submission.

Step 6: Dubai Civil Defence Fire & Safety Approval

Shisha cafés are considered higher-risk environments due to charcoal usage and heat sources. Dubai Civil Defence focuses heavily on safety measures.

This approval often includes:

• Fire extinguisher placement
• Fire alarm system compliance
• Emergency exit signage
• Smoke detectors
• Fire-rated materials (where required)
• Safe charcoal handling zone
• Evacuation route planning

Civil Defence inspection is strict, and small mistakes can cause repeated site visits. We help ensure your site is prepared correctly before inspection.

Step 7: Dubai Municipality Final Review & Inspection

Once documents and engineering approvals are submitted, Dubai Municipality schedules inspections. During inspection, they verify that your site matches the approved plans and meets safety and hygiene requirements.

Inspectors commonly check:

• Seating layout matches approved drawings
• Ventilation works effectively
• Smoke extraction output is correct
• Shisha preparation area is clean and compliant
• Fire safety equipment is installed properly
• Smoking zone boundaries are respected

After inspection, your final shisha permit or approval can be issued.