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

You will need a valid Australia passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Australia, attested documents via Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and a business plan for your cafeteria venture.

How long does it take for an Australian citizen to set up a cafeteria company in IFZA?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 2–5 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 12–22 business days.

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

Yes, with a valid trade licence from IFZA, 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.

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

Yes, your cafeteria licence from IFZA 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 3,500.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Cafeteria business in International Free Zone Authority?

The annual licence renewal for a Cafeteria IFZA company costs approximately AED 11,750, 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.

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

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 International Free Zone Authority?

Yes, IFZA 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.

Cafeteria in International Free Zone Authority for Australian nationals

Free ZoneFood & BeverageRegulated Activity

Cafeteria in IFZA

Starting From

AED 11,750

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Cafeteria

The UAE continues to attract Australian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and IFZA is one of the most popular jurisdictions for cafeteria operations. Growing Australian business community (~25,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from International Free Zone Authority gives your Cafeteria business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from Dubai Municipality before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up cafeteria businesses in International Free Zone Authority since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why IFZA for Cafeteria?

Choosing IFZA for your cafeteria business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers most affordable dubai free zone, which is particularly valuable for cafeteria operations. Additionally, fast 48-hour setup 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 3,500 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. 100% foreign ownership further enhances the appeal of IFZA for cafeteria professionals. Furthermore, no currency restrictions positions your cafeteria business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, IFZA 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 Australian nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Australian business community.

Most affordable Dubai free zone

Fast 48-hour setup

100% foreign ownership

No currency restrictions

Multiple activities on one licence

Visa Requirements for Australian Nationals

For Australian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Australian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your cafeteria business in IFZA.

Banking for Australian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your cafeteria company in IFZA: Australian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Commonwealth banking standards are recognised by UAE banks. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Australian business structures.

Document Attestation for Australian Nationals

Document attestation for Australian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Australia, (2) Attestation by Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to cafeteria businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Australia passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality

5Detailed business plan or activity description

6Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

7Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

8Completed application form for trade licence

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	11,750
Visa Package (per visa)	3,500
Flexi Desk	3,500
Shared Office	8,000
Private Office	18,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 18,750

* 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 IFZA licence options for Australian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Australia through Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

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

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official IFZA trade licence within 2–5 business days.

Visa Processing

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

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Australian 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: 2 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. IFZA allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Australian 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