Catering Services in Dubai DED
Starting From
AED 12,000
Setup Time
3 Business Days
Visa Quota
0 Visas
Location
Dubai
About Catering Services
As an Iranian national looking to establish a Catering Services business in Dubai Mainland, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Iran has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Iranian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.
As a mainland entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Catering Services 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 catering services 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 Catering Services?
There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Mainland continues to attract catering services entrepreneurs from around the world.
The jurisdiction offers trade anywhere in the uae, which is particularly valuable for catering services 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 catering services professionals. Furthermore, wider business scope positions your catering services 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.
For Iranian nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Iranian business community.
Visa Requirements for Iranian Nationals
Banking for Iranian Business Owners
Document Attestation for Iranian Nationals
Requirements & Documents
Regulatory Note: Catering Services 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
Consultation
Free consultation with IBA to discuss your catering services business plan and the best Dubai DED licence options for Iranian nationals.
Document Preparation
Prepare and attest all required documents from Iran through Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.
Licence Application
Submit the catering services licence application to Dubai DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.
Trade Licence Issued
Receive your official Dubai DED trade licence within 3–6 business days.
Visa Processing
Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.
Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account. Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements.
Start Operations
Your catering services 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. Since the UAE's 2020 Commercial Companies Law amendment, Iranian nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including catering services.
Catering Services in Other Jurisdictions
Get Started Today
Ready to set up your catering services in Dubai DED? Our team is here to help.
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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.
Ready to Start Your Catering Services?
Get a personalised quote for setting up your catering services in Dubai DED. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.