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

You will need a valid Russia passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Russia, attested documents via Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille, and a business plan for your cafeteria venture.

How long does it take for a Russian citizen to set up a cafeteria company in DMCC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 3–6 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 13–23 business days.

Can I get a residence visa with my Cafeteria licence from DMCC?

Yes, your cafeteria licence from DMCC entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 3 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,200.

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

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.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Cafeteria company in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre?

Yes, DMCC allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my DMCC Cafeteria licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from DMCC, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

How much does it cost to set up a Cafeteria business in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre?

The total setup cost for a Cafeteria business in DMCC starts from approximately AED 15,300 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 5,200 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

Cafeteria in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre for Russian nationals

Free ZoneFood & BeverageRegulated Activity

Cafeteria in DMCC

Starting From

AED 15,300

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Cafeteria

As a Russian national looking to establish a Cafeteria business in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Russia has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Russian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Cafeteria business will benefit from 100% foreign ownership and zero corporate and income tax. The DMCC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 15,300.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your cafeteria setup in DMCC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why DMCC for Cafeteria?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Multi Commodities Centre continues to attract cafeteria entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers 100% foreign ownership, which is particularly valuable for cafeteria operations. Additionally, zero corporate and income tax 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 6,300 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 3 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Strategic JLT location further enhances the appeal of DMCC for cafeteria professionals. Furthermore, world's leading free zone positions your cafeteria business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DMCC 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 Russian nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Russian business community.

100% foreign ownership

Zero corporate and income tax

Strategic JLT location

World's leading free zone

Access to commodities market

Visa Requirements for Russian Nationals

For Russian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Russian nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 90 days. For business purposes, a proper residence visa is recommended. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your cafeteria business in DMCC.

Banking for Russian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your cafeteria company in DMCC: Russian entrepreneurs may face additional compliance requirements due to international regulations. IBA assists with proper documentation and bank selection. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Russian business structures.

Document Attestation for Russian Nationals

Document attestation for Russian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Russia, (2) Attestation by Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to cafeteria businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Russia passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Detailed business plan or activity description

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Completed application form for trade licence

7Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality

8Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

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	15,300
Visa Package (per visa)	5,200
Flexi Desk	6,300
Shared Office	12,000
Private Office	30,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 26,800

* 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 DMCC licence options for Russian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Russia through Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

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

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DMCC trade licence within 3–6 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Russian nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 90 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Russian entrepreneurs may face additional compliance requirements due to international regulations.

Start Operations

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

Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DMCC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Russian 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