A restaurant fit-out in Dubai usually involves several approvals, not one. The exact list depends on where your unit is, but most projects touch the landlord or mall, the authority for the area, the Food Control Department, Civil Defence and DEWA.
Last updated: 28 October 2026
Start with the landlord or mall
Most restaurant units need a landlord or mall NOC and must follow its fit-out guidelines before submissions to the authorities. Ask for the guidelines early, because they affect your layout and drawings.
The authority for your area
Dubai Municipality covers most areas, while communities and free zones may fall under the Dubai Development Authority, Trakhees or another body. See Dubai Municipality, DDA and Trakhees.
Food Control Department
Kitchen layouts for food premises are reviewed by the Food Control Department of Dubai Municipality. Planning the kitchen with these requirements in mind from the start avoids redesign. See Food Control Department approval.
Civil Defence and DEWA
Civil Defence reviews fire and life-safety aspects such as exits, fire protection and materials, and DEWA reviews electrical and water-related drawings where they apply.
How AKSE helps
AKSE designs the dining area and kitchen together, prepares the drawings and manages the submissions. See our restaurant and kitchen fit-out service.