How to Open a Baqala in Abu Dhabi
Thinking about opening a baqala in Abu Dhabi?
This guide covers everything you need to know, from licenses and location tips to stocking up and marketing strategies.
Starting a baqala, or small grocery store, can be a rewarding venture, especially in Abu Dhabi’s growing neighborhoods where convenience is in high demand.
In 2013, the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) launched Project Baqala to provide higher-quality foods more broadly and affordably.
This blog will guide you through the requirements and steps to open a baqala in Abu Dhabi.
What Exactly is a Baqala?
The name “Baqala,” which roughly translates to “what comes from the ground,” is a historic Arabic term for grocery shops selling fruits, vegetables, and grains.
As part of Abu Dhabi’s Development Vision 2030, the Baqala project was introduced to enhance the sustainability, health, and safety standards of all grocery stores in the emirate.
Under this project, all grocery stores must use the name Baqala, with their individual names written in smaller typefaces to distinguish them.
Therefore, every grocery store in Abu Dhabi is referred to as a Baqala.
Every Baqala in Abu Dhabi is required to maintain specific standards, including uniformed staff, standardized store layouts, and proper security measures.
The primary objectives are to eliminate health risks, enhance customer satisfaction, and boost store revenue.
To explore more about the business environment in Abu Dhabi, you might find this guide for investors in Abu Dhabi useful.
How to Start a Baqala in Abu Dhabi?
There are two compelling reasons to consider starting a Baqala in Abu Dhabi:
- Minimal Starting Expense
The cost of starting a Baqala is significantly lower than that of other businesses. However, setting up the Baqala requires adherence to specific standards, which might take time and effort. - Consistent Demand
With the region’s continuous population growth and the ongoing demand for household goods, grocery stores, especially Baqalas, will remain in demand. Located near or within residential areas, these stores enjoy a steady stream of customers.
For more insights on starting a small business in the UAE, check out this comprehensive guide.
Baqala Requirements You Need to Take Care Of
A Baqala in Abu Dhabi must maintain uniform store layouts and amenities. Some of the key requirements include:
- Store Layout & Equipment
Amenities such as microwaves, high-quality coolers and refrigerators, store decorations, coffee stations, proper security accessories, storage spaces, staff uniforms, price labels, and cash registers must be in place. - Baqala Scheme Membership
A store may or may not be part of the Baqala scheme. Independent retailers must use a modified version of the Baqala logo, and at least one partner in the business must be an Emirati by law. - Geographical Separation
Each Baqala must be separated by a minimum of 5,000 millimeters (5000 mm) from another Baqala. - Environmental & Safety Compliance
Stores must adhere to environmental, safety, and pest management regulations. Protection against weather conditions like rain and storms, as well as safeguarding from pests, is mandatory. - Structural Standards
Any external flaws or objects on top of walls must be covered with plastic or polyvinyl chloride. Outdoor AC compressors lower than 1200mm from the ground must be protected by vented, powder-coated aluminum cages. - Storefront & Signage
The storefront must feature 10–12mm thick aluminum-framed glass, with proper sealing and waterproofing. Posters and stickers that are visually disruptive are not allowed at the entrance. The door should display Baqala push and pull stickers and opening times. - Inventory Approval
To receive clearance from the Department of Economic Development (DED), you must submit a detailed list of every item for sale at your store. Any new items added later must also be approved by the DED.
For detailed information on obtaining a business license in Abu Dhabi, you can read this ultimate guide.
How to Open a Baqala in Abu Dhabi?
To open a Baqala in Abu Dhabi and obtain the necessary license, follow these steps:
- Branding & Logo
Your store may or may not be affiliated with the Baqala program. Independent stores must display the Baqala logo, with at least one Emirati partner involved in the business. - Location
Find a suitable location that complies with all hygiene, protection, and geographical separation requirements. - DED Authorization
Submit a detailed inventory to the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED) for approval. If you add new items in the future, you must update this list with the DED. - Invoicing System
Implement a reliable invoicing system, as the UAE government mandates the issuance of physical invoices for all transactions. - Correct Pricing
Ensure that all products in your Baqala are priced effectively, as required by UAE law. - Trade Name
The trade name on your license and signage must match. The name Baqala can be modified to suit your business. - Trademark Registration
Register your trademark with the UAE government to legally sell food products.
For more on business structure and trade licenses in the UAE, see this article.
Cost of Opening a Baqala in Abu Dhabi
The cost of opening a Baqala in Abu Dhabi can be a worthwhile investment with potentially significant returns.
However, the exact cost varies depending on several factors, including shop rent, license fees, groceries rent, visas, and more.
Therefore, it is challenging to provide an exact figure without a detailed cost analysis.
Open Your Baqala with Growbizquick
Growbizquick can assist you with the exact cost calculations and guide you through the process of starting your Baqala in Abu Dhabi.
If you’re uncertain about starting a grocery store or any other type of business in the UAE, our professionals are here to help.
To understand the business opportunities and investment strategies in the region, you can refer to this exclusive guide for investors.
Checklist for Opening a Baqala in Abu Dhabi
| Steps | Details |
|---|---|
| Branding & Logo | Display the Baqala logo; ensure at least one Emirati partner. |
| Location | Choose a location that meets hygiene and safety standards. |
| DED Authorization | Submit a detailed inventory to the DED for approval. |
| Invoicing System | Implement a reliable invoicing system as mandated by the UAE government. |
| Correct Pricing | Ensure all products are priced effectively according to UAE law. |
| Trade Name | Ensure the trade name on your license matches the signage. |
| Trademark Registration | Register your trademark with the UAE government. |
| Environmental & Safety Compliance | Follow environmental, safety, and pest management regulations. |
| Store Layout & Equipment | Ensure uniform store layout with necessary amenities and security measures. |
| Geographical Separation | Maintain a minimum separation of 5,000mm from other Baqalas. |
