What documents does a British national need to start a cafeteria business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United Kingdom, attested documents via Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and a business plan for your cafeteria venture.

How long does it take for a British citizen to set up a cafeteria company in DMC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 5–8 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 15–25 business days.

How long does it take to get a Cafeteria licence in DMC?

The typical processing time for a cafeteria licence at DMC is 5 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring Dubai Municipality approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

What documents do I need to set up a Cafeteria business in DMC?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by Dubai Municipality. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

What are the tax implications for a Cafeteria business in Dubai Media City?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in DMC may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Is Dubai Media City good for cafeteria start-ups?

DMC is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering middle east media hub and home to international media houses. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 12,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Cafeteria business in Dubai Media City?

The annual licence renewal for a Cafeteria DMC company costs approximately AED 15,000, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

Cafeteria in Dubai Media City for British nationals

Free ZoneFood & BeverageRegulated Activity

Cafeteria in DMC

Starting From

AED 15,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

5 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Cafeteria

Setting up a Cafeteria business in Dubai Media City as a British citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to United Kingdom-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of British business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at DMC has been streamlined significantly, with most food & beverage licences processed within 5 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 15,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your cafeteria business in Dubai Media City. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why DMC for Cafeteria?

Dubai Media City is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for food & beverage businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers middle east media hub, which is particularly valuable for cafeteria operations. Additionally, home to international media houses ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 12,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 5 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Full media production ecosystem further enhances the appeal of DMC for cafeteria professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your cafeteria business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DMC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established food & beverage enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For British nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large British business community.

Middle East media hub

Home to international media houses

Full media production ecosystem

100% foreign ownership

Creative industry networking

Visa Requirements for British Nationals

British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your cafeteria licence is issued by DMC, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 10–17 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for British Business Owners

British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. UK-regulated banking history is viewed favourably by UAE banks. For your cafeteria business in DMC, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving British business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United Kingdom-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for British Nationals

British nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for cafeteria), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to DMC.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

7Relevant industry experience documentation

8Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

Regulatory Note: Cafeteria is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Dubai Municipality is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	15,000
Visa Package (per visa)	5,000
Flexi Desk	12,000
Shared Office	20,000
Private Office	45,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 32,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your cafeteria business plan and the best DMC licence options for British nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United Kingdom through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the cafeteria licence application to DMC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DMC trade licence within 5–8 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

Start Operations

Your cafeteria business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DMC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including British nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Cafeteria in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750

Cafeteria in DMC — Other Nationalities

View General Guide (All Nationalities)

Indian Pakistani Filipino American Chinese Egyptian Italian Bangladeshi Lebanese Iranian Russian German

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your cafeteria in DMC? Our team is here to help.

SPEAK TO AN ADVISOR WHATSAPP US

Quick Facts

JurisdictionDMC

TypeFree Zone

EmirateDubai

License FeeAED 15,000

Setup Time5 days

Visa Quota5

Activity Code56102

Official Source

dmc.ae ↗

Explore More

All activities in DMC →All Food & Beverage guides →Browse all guides →

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

Ready to Start Your Cafeteria?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your cafeteria in DMC. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.

Get a Free Quote Call +971 4 399 59 09