How to Set Up a Coffee Shop POS System in Dubai – Step-by-Step Guide
Starting a Coffee Shop in Dubai? Your First Tech Decision Matters
Opening a coffee shop in Dubai is an exciting venture—but before you serve your first espresso, you’ll need to set up the right tech. And the POS system is the core of that setup.
A smart POS (Point of Sale) system is more than a cash register. It handles your billing, inventory, staff management, loyalty programs, VAT compliance, and more.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know to set up a POS system for your coffee shop in Dubai, from choosing the right one to local supplier options.
What is a POS System and How Does It Work?
A POS system is a combination of software and hardware that helps you run your café operations smoothly. It includes:
- Billing software
- Hardware (tablet, monitor, receipt printer, barcode scanner, cash drawer)
- Payment gateway integration
- Inventory and staff management tools
- Customer loyalty systems
A POS lets you:
- Process orders and payments quickly
- Track stock in real-time
- Generate VAT-compliant invoices
- Analyze sales and employee performance
Step 1: Choose the Right POS Software for Your Coffee Shop
In Dubai, not every POS software fits the bill. You’ll need features tailored for cafés, such as:
- Quick order processing
- Multiple payment options (cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay)
- Inventory tracking for coffee beans, milk, syrups, etc.
- Arabic and English interface
- VAT & ZATCA compliance
- Cloud access for remote management
Top Recommendation: Marg POS
- Made for Dubai cafés
- Built-in loyalty tools
- Easy VAT reporting
- Local support and onboarding
Step 2: Choose the Right POS Hardware
Depending on your setup, your POS hardware may include:
- Touchscreen terminal or tablet
- Receipt printer
- Cash drawer
- Barcode scanner (for retail items)
- Kitchen display system (KDS) or kitchen printer
Estimated Costs in Dubai (AED):
| Hardware Item | Estimated Price |
| Touchscreen terminal | 1,000 – 2,500 |
| Receipt printer | 300 – 600 |
| Cash drawer | 250 – 450 |
| KDS setup | 1,000+ |
Most suppliers bundle hardware with software, which may help save costs.
Step 3: Where to Buy POS Systems in Dubai
Trusted POS Vendors in Dubai:
- Marg POS –offers local support VAT-ready for more click here
- Dubai POS Systems – Offers various POS brands with installation
- Barzan Tech – POS hardware specialists with delivery across UAE
- Jacky’s Business Solutions – Enterprise and mid-size POS integrations
Always ask about:
- Installation & training
- Local warranty and support
- Customization options
Step 4: Installing and Setting Up Your POS System
Installation typically includes:
- Mounting hardware (terminal, printer, KDS)
- Installing software and syncing with cloud dashboard
- Inputting menu and pricing
- Setting tax/VAT configurations
- Training staff on usage
Most vendors offer 1–2 days of free training to help your team understand billing, inventory, and customer features.
Step 5: Troubleshooting and Ongoing Staff Training
Common setup issues:
- Connectivity problems (cloud POS)
- Printer syncing or paper jams
- Menu items not displaying correctly
- Incomplete tax setup
Fixes:
- Use vendor support line
- Restart and reconnect hardware
- Double-check tax fields in settings
Training Tips:
- Create a POS quick-reference guide
- Schedule refresher training monthly
- Assign a “POS lead” from your team
Bonus: Local Government & Tax Considerations
Dubai requires all businesses to:
- Be VAT compliant (5% on most F&B)
- Issue proper tax invoices
- Submit monthly or quarterly VAT returns
Make sure your POS:
- Adds VAT automatically
- Stores invoice records securely
- Exports VAT reports for FTA submission
Marg POS includes auto-VAT billing and FTA-compliant reporting—one less thing to worry about.
Final Thoughts: Start Smart, Scale Fast
Setting up your coffee shop POS system the right way from the start will save you hours of troubleshooting, reduce staff confusion, and help ensure compliance with local laws.
Whether you’re just launching your first café or expanding your brand across Dubai, a smart POS like Marg POS will give you the tools to grow with confidence.
👉 Get started with Marg POS today and simplify your café operations from day one.
Dubai cafés deserve better tech. Let’s brew business the smart way.