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How to Open a Supermarket in Abu Dhabi – [2023 guide]

Abu Dhabi has been a significant contributor in driving the growth of the UAE’s retail market sector. As its population expected to rise in the upcoming years, the demand for supermarkets in Abu Dhabi is now at all-time high, making it one of the most lucrative business in the UAE.

However, it’s important to note that opening a supermarket requires a careful planning. In this article, we’ll provide you with the right approach for starting your own supermarket in Abu Dhabi.  We’ll cover the following:

  • Why should you start a supermarket in Abu Dhabi?
  • Steps in opening a supermarket in Abu Dhabi
  • General documents required in opening a supermarket in Abu Dhabi
  • Cost of opening a supermarket in Abu Dhabi
  • How Creative Zone can help

Why should you start a supermarket in Abu Dhabi?

The UAE’s retail market sector is expected to reach USD 37.70 billion by 2027. This is driven by factors such as population growth, and a thriving tourism industry. As a major catalyst to this, Abu Dhabi continues to witness a surge on the demand of supermarkets within the city.

Typically, supermarkets in Abu Dhabi offer a wide range of products and services, including groceries, and household items, making them vital to the community’s daily needs.

Steps in opening a supermarket in Abu Dhabi

If done correctly, a supermarket can be one of the most profitable businesses in Abu Dhabi. Creative Zone can assist you with the following steps to acquire your license and start your own:

Step 1: Do a market research

Understanding consumer demands and behavior, as well as potential competition, is crucial when starting a supermarket in Abu Dhabi. Knowing the needs of your target audience will help you in determining the products and services you’ll offer for your business.  

Step 2: Develop a business plan

To monitor the progress of your company setup, developing a business plan is a must. This will also help you keep track of your company’s strategies, goals, and objectives.

Step 3: Choose a suitable location

Find a location that is close and visible to your target market. You can consider factors such as accessibility, the cost of rent, and the parking availability to prioritize the convenience of your customers.

Step 4: Get license

Once you have everything in place, you can now proceed in registering your business with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and obtain all necessary permits and licenses.

From here, Creative Zone will assist you in getting all the requirements needed to open your supermarket businesses.

Step 5: Explore funding options

Opening a supermarket in Abu Dhabi requires a significant amount of capital. You can secure funding through loans, grants, or investors.

Through Creative Zone’s strategic partnerships, we can assist you in exploring various funding options that can help your business.

Step 6: Find reliable suppliers

When looking for suppliers, prioritize those who provide high-quality products at reasonable prices. Keep in mind that your suppliers will play a vital role in ensuring that you always have the necessary stock of products to meet the demands of your customers.

Step 7: Hire staff

Abu Dhabi is known for having a skilled and talented pool of manpower.  Hire staff who have experience working in a supermarket setting and are knowledgeable about the products you offer.

General documents required in opening a supermarket in Abu Dhabi

These are some of general documents that you will need to prepare and obtain when starting a supermarket in Abu Dhabi:

  • Trade license
  • Commercial lease agreement
  • No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the landlord of the property where you will be operating your supermarket
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA)
  • Health and safety certificates
  • VAT registration
  • Labor contracts

Cost of opening a supermarket in Abu Dhabi

The cost of opening a supermarket in Abu Dhabi can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the size and location of the supermarket, the products and services offered. You can use our cost calculator to learn more.

How Creative Zone can help

As one of the most reputable consultancy firms in the UAE, Creative Zone can help you from registering your company, to choosing the most suitable location for your business. Our company formation specialists will assist and guide you to ensure a smooth and affordable business setup in the UAE.

Take advantage of our free consultation and speak to one of our business experts today!  

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