Sharjah Restaurants Require Ramadan Food Permits
Ramadan 2025: Sharjah Restaurants Must Obtain Food Display Permits
Ramadan has always been a special period in the Islamic world, not only spiritually, but also culturally and socially. During this annual fasting period, Muslims abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset, which naturally affects the operation of restaurants and food retailers. In Sharjah, one of the northern emirates of the United Arab Emirates, the local municipality has now announced that restaurants must obtain permission for food preparation and display during daylight hours during Ramadan.
Requesting Permits During Ramadan
The Sharjah City Municipality has officially announced that restaurants can now apply for permits to prepare and sell food during daylight hours during Ramadan. This measure is not only in place to ensure compliance with local regulations but also to ensure adherence to health standards. The permit application process offers two different types of permits, with varying fees.
Types of Permits
a. Food Preparation and Selling Permit
Fee: 3000 dirhams
Description: This permit applies to all places where food is prepared and sold, including restaurants located in shopping malls.
Conditions:
Food can only be prepared in kitchens.
Restaurants cannot serve guests on terraces or dining areas; food can only be prepared for takeout.
b. Food Display Permit in Front of Shops Before Iftar
Fee: 500 dirhams
Description: This permit applies to restaurants, cafes, sweet shops, and bakeries.
Conditions:
Food can only be placed on the sidewalk in front of the shop (not on sandy areas).
Food must be in non-corrosive metal containers and displayed in a glass box (at least 100 cm high) with a sliding or rotating door.
Food must be covered with aluminum foil or transparent, food-grade plastic and stored at appropriate temperatures (not chilled or frozen).
The displayed food must be prepared at the given shop within the scope of permitted activities.
How to Apply for a Permit
Restaurants and food retailers in Sharjah can apply for permits through various service centers. Applications can be submitted at the following centers:
Municipal Drawing Center (Al Nasiriyah), Tasareeh Center, Al Raqam Wahed Center, Municipality 24 Center, Al Saqr Center, Al Rolla Center, Al Khalidiya Center, Al Suraa Wa Al Diqah Center, Saif Center, Al Malomat Center, Al Saada Center, Tawjeeh Center
Why Is This Measure Important?
During Ramadan, the operation of restaurants and food retailers undergoes significant changes. The permit system's goal is to ensure adherence to health standards, as well as to provide safe and quality food for the local community. Additionally, the permits help ensure the city remains orderly, preventing disruptive situations on the streets during the hours leading up to iftar, when many people buy food.
The Ramadan Period in 2025
Ramadan in 2025 is expected to start on March 1 and last for 30 days, ending on April 1. This period always requires significant preparations, as for Muslims, it is not only a time of fasting but also of family, community gatherings, and charity. In Sharjah, this period is crucial for restaurants and food retailers, with increased demand but stricter regulations in place.
Summary
The new measures by the Sharjah City Municipality make it clear that maintaining order and adhering to health regulations is essential during Ramadan. The permit application process provides restaurants with the opportunity to continue serving the community while complying with the rules. The two types of permits—the food preparation and the food display permit—allow businesses to flexibly adapt to the unique demands of Ramadan.
If you plan to operate a restaurant or food retail business in Sharjah, it's advisable to familiarize yourself with the new rules and ensure the necessary permits are obtained on time. This way, you can ensure the smooth operation during Ramadan while contributing to the city's orderly and safe atmosphere.
