Cafeteria in Sharjah Mainland
MainlandFood & BeverageRegulated Activity

Cafeteria in Sharjah DED

Starting From

AED 7,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Sharjah

About Cafeteria

Sharjah Mainland in Sharjah provides an excellent environment for launching a Cafeteria venture, combining world-class infrastructure with a business-friendly regulatory framework.

The licensing process at Sharjah DED has been streamlined significantly, with most food & beverage licences processed within 3 business days. With the recent changes to UAE commercial law, 100% foreign ownership is now available for most mainland activities. The base licence fee is approximately AED 7,500, making it one of the most affordable options in the UAE.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your cafeteria business in Sharjah Mainland. 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 Sharjah DED for Cafeteria?

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

The jurisdiction offers cost-effective setup, which is particularly valuable for cafeteria operations. Additionally, adjacent to dubai 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 4,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Trade across the UAE further enhances the appeal of Sharjah DED for cafeteria professionals. Furthermore, industrial areas available positions your cafeteria business for long-term success in the region. With Sharjah continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Sharjah 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.

Cost-effective setup
Adjacent to Dubai
Trade across the UAE
Industrial areas available
Growing business hub

Requirements & Documents

1Detailed business plan or activity description
2Completed application form for trade licence
3No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable
4Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
5Passport-sized photographs with white background
6Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address
7Relevant industry experience documentation
8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

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

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee7,500
Visa Package (per visa)3,500
Ejari Office8,000
Co-Working4,000
Private Office15,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 19,000

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

Setup Timeline

1

Initial Consultation

Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your cafeteria business objectives, optimal licence structure, and Sharjah DED as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.

2

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.

3

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.

4

Obtain Trade Licence

Following DED approval, your Sharjah 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 7,500.

5

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 3,500. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.

6

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.

7

Start Operations

With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your cafeteria business in Sharjah 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

Yes, your cafeteria licence from Sharjah DED entitles you to apply for residence visas. The number of visas depends on your office space size — larger offices qualify for more visas. Each visa costs approximately AED 3,500.

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for cafeteria in Sharjah DED:

Get Started Today

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

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionSharjah DED
Typemainland
EmirateSharjah
License FeeAED 7,500
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code56102

Official Source

www.sharjah.gov.ae

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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