What permits are required to start a small cafe in Amman, and how long do licensing authorities typically take?

I am Ahmed Awad Aljarrah, a Sharia and Family Lawyer specialized in family law, personal status matters, and the marriage and divorce of foreigners, expatriates, and residents in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Although my primary legal practice focuses on Sharia and family matters, based on practical experience and familiarity with the administrative procedures applicable in Jordan, establishing a small café in Amman generally requires the following: First, registering the business with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply, including obtaining an approved commercial registration and trade name, depending on the legal form of the business. Second, mandatory registration with the Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of Industry within the jurisdiction where the café will operate. Third, obtaining a Vocational License from the Greater Amman Municipality or the competent local municipality, in accordance with the applicable vocational licensing laws, bylaws, and municipal instructions. Fourth, submitting a duly attested lease agreement or title deed, with a fundamental requirement that the premises be located in an area zoned for commercial use, not residential. Fifth, for activities involving the preparation or serving of food and beverages, health and technical approvals are typically required. These may include compliance with public health regulations and Civil Defense requirements, depending on the nature and size of the café. Timelines vary depending on the completeness of documentation and required approvals, but procedures generally take from several days to a few weeks. Common reasons for delays include non-compliant zoning, incomplete documentation, and delays in obtaining technical, health, or safety approvals. Engaging an attorney can assist in coordinating applications across the relevant authorities, ensuring legal compliance, and minimizing delays during the licensing process.

To open a small café in Amman, you will usually need to register the company and obtain tax registration, secure an operating license from the Greater Amman Municipality, obtain health and food safety approval from the Ministry of Health, and receive Civil Defense clearance for fire and safety requirements.

If everything is in order, the licensing process generally takes around 6–10 weeks. Most delays happen due to missing documents, issues with the premises not meeting requirements, or waiting for official inspections and approvals.

Hiring a local attorney is not mandatory, but it is often very helpful. A lawyer can coordinate the process with the different authorities, follow up on inspections, and ensure full compliance, saving time and reducing potential risks. Rawan Noubani Attoremy At Law Regards