Mawaqif Issues Permits for Mobile Food Vending Trucks

The Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Centre has announced that for the first time in Abu Dhabi Emirate, it has issued permits for operating mobile food-vending trucks in specific locations outside Abu Dhabi Island, including Al Raha Beach, Saadiyat Island, the Abu Dhabi – Dubai main highway, Al Falah area and Al Garm, among other public areas and tourist locations.

Mohammad Hamad Al Muhairi, the General Manager of Parking Division of Mawaqif, said, "This step will contribute to diversifying the ways of offering services to the public. Our aim is to improve the quality of services offered to community members through regulating mobile food-vending trucks and issuing permits after verifying all environmental and health stipulations and requirements. Regulating the business will also generate fresh investment prospects for individuals as well as small and medium size firms, SMEs, to invest in this field and have presence in strategic locations and key outposts outside Abu Dhabi Island."

The Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Centre said that all parties interested in operating mobile food-vending trucks should apply for the required permits. Stipulations for a permit include that the truck must be sited in a specific location that is permitted by Mawaqif, in an unused area without impacting the movement of vehicles and individuals. Applicants have to secure approvals from the Department of Economic Development, Abu Dhabi Police and Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority. A map has to be submitted showing the locations approved by the Abu Dhabi Police, and addressing all technical specifications as endorsed by the authorities. A permit is required to be issued in respect of each truck linked to a valid commercial license. Names of business entities have to be displayed on all affiliated vehicles, and a number for complaints has to be shown in a prominent position. A 'No Objection Certificate', NOC, has to be issued from the landlord and the truck must not stay overnight in the location to avoid committing an offence.

The permit covers the offering of non-alcoholic beverages, juices, iced refreshments and snacks as per specifications approved by the relevant licensing bodies.

The Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Centre said that the number of permits granted in each location would be limited, and dependent on the capacity of the area and whether or not such activity is required. The centre stressed the importance of observing the specified places and times set governed by a permit for occupying the place

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