Pavement Permit for Restaurants and Coffee Shops in Dubai – Outdoor Seating in the Right of Way

Restaurants, coffee shops, and food outlets in Dubai that wish to place tables, chairs, devices, or machines on public pavements require a permit from the RTA. The pavement falls within the public Right of Way, and any commercial use of this space must be formally approved to ensure pedestrian flow, accessibility, and safety are maintained. HMJ Contracting supports businesses with pavement utilisation permit applications in Dubai. Call +971 50 778 9046.

What This Permit Covers

• Outdoor dining tables and chairs on public pavements adjacent to the restaurant
• Coffee shop seating areas extending onto the pavement
• Display stands, menu boards, and promotional devices on pavement areas
• Vending machines, ATMs, or service machines placed on public pavement
• Planters, barriers, and screening used to define the outdoor seating area

RTA Requirements for Pavement Utilisation

The RTA evaluates each application based on the available pavement width, pedestrian volume, proximity to crossings and bus stops, accessibility requirements for people of determination, and the impact on adjacent road users. A minimum clear pedestrian passage width must be maintained at all times. The permit specifies exactly what can be placed, where, and under what conditions.

Documents Required for the Application

• Site plan showing the proposed layout of tables, chairs, and equipment relative to the pavement boundaries
• Dimensions of the proposed seating area and remaining clear pedestrian width
• Details of furniture and equipment to be placed
• Valid trade licence and food establishment permit
• Photographs of the existing pavement and proposed area

Applications are submitted through the RTA’s ROWPS system as the pavement is part of the road Right of Way. HMJ prepares all documentation and manages the submission process. See our RTA ROW guide and Right of Way permit guide.

Get Your Pavement Utilisation Permit

Call +971 50 778 9046. HMJ handles the full application from document preparation through to RTA approval.