Cafeteria in Dubai DED
Starting From
AED 12,000
Setup Time
3 Business Days
Visa Quota
0 Visas
Location
Dubai
About Cafeteria
The UAE's thriving economy continues to attract investors from around the world, and Dubai Mainland stands out as a premier destination for Cafeteria businesses.
As a mainland entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Cafeteria business will benefit from trade anywhere in the uae and government contracts eligibility. The Dubai DED licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 12,000.
With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your cafeteria setup in Dubai DED. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.
Why Dubai DED for Cafeteria?
There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Mainland continues to attract cafeteria entrepreneurs from around the world.
The jurisdiction offers trade anywhere in the uae, which is particularly valuable for cafeteria operations. Additionally, government contracts eligibility ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. Operating on the mainland allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions, and you can bid on government contracts — a significant advantage over free zone entities. Office solutions start from AED 8,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. No geographic restrictions further enhances the appeal of Dubai DED for cafeteria professionals. Furthermore, wider business scope positions your cafeteria business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Dubai DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established food & beverage enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.
Requirements & Documents
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 | 12,000 |
| Visa Package (per visa) | 4,500 |
| Ejari Office | 15,000 |
| Co-Working | 8,000 |
| Private Office | 30,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 31,500 |
* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.
Setup Timeline
Initial Consultation
Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your cafeteria business objectives, optimal licence structure, and Dubai DED as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.
Choose Your Company Name
Select your company name and submit it for approval. The DED naming guidelines require the name to reflect the legal structure and activity. Reserved and restricted words require additional approvals. IBA handles the name reservation process.
Prepare & Submit Documents
Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. For cafeteria, additional documents including professional qualifications and Dubai Municipality approvals are required. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.
Obtain Trade Licence
Following DED approval, your Dubai mainland trade licence is issued within 3 business days. The licence authorises you to conduct cafeteria activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 12,000.
Apply for Residence Visa
Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. The number of visas depends on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 4,500. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.
Open Corporate Bank Account
With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.
Start Operations
With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your cafeteria business in Dubai Mainland is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.
Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Mainland companies are subject to the standard 9% corporate tax rate on taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.
Cafeteria in Other Jurisdictions
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Official Source
www.dubaided.gov.ae ↗Popular in Dubai DED
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.
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