What License Is Needed to Open a Café?
A café needs a commercial register, municipal café/beverage activity license, worker health certificates, and possibly Civil Defense approval by area.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Quick facts
- Authority
- Ministry of Municipal & Rural Affairs
- Platform
- Balady
- Login required?
- Yes
- Nafath required?
- No
- Absher required?
- No
- Balady required?
- Yes
- Fees?
- Yes
Required licenses & permits
- Commercial register
- Municipal license — café/beverages
- Worker health certificates
- Commercial signboard
- Civil Defense approval (by area)
Official platforms
- Balady
- Business Center
Requirements
- Suitable commercial site
- Lease contract
- Area matching café activity
- Public health requirements
Application steps
- Issue commercial register
- Select café activity in Balady
- Submit municipal license request
- Health certificates for staff
- Signboard permit
FAQ
Is a café a food activity?
Yes — subject to public health and municipal rules.
Separate license for outdoor seating?
License covers the site; check municipality for outdoor areas.
Difference from restaurant?
Activity and requirements differ; restaurants often have stricter kitchen/Civil Defense rules.