Catering Services in JAFZA
Starting From
AED 16,000
Setup Time
5 Business Days
Visa Quota
6 Visas
Location
Dubai
About Catering Services
Jebel Ali Free Zone has earned its reputation as a leading free zone for food & beverage businesses, offering a streamlined setup process and competitive cost structure.
Operating from Jebel Ali Free Zone gives your Catering Services 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 catering services businesses in Jebel Ali Free Zone 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 JAFZA for Catering Services?
Choosing JAFZA for your catering services business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.
The jurisdiction offers world's largest free zone, which is particularly valuable for catering services operations. Additionally, direct access to jebel ali port 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 8,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 6 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Excellent logistics infrastructure further enhances the appeal of JAFZA for catering services professionals. Furthermore, tax-free environment positions your catering services business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, JAFZA 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: 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 | 16,000 |
| Visa Package (per visa) | 5,000 |
| Flexi Desk | 8,000 |
| Shared Office | 15,000 |
| Private Office | 40,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 29,000 |
* 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 catering services business objectives, optimal licence structure, and JAFZA 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. JAFZA has specific naming guidelines — the name must not conflict with existing registrations and should reflect your business activity. IBA handles the name reservation process.
Prepare & Submit Documents
Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. For catering services, additional documents including professional qualifications and Dubai Municipality approvals are required. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.
Obtain Trade Licence
Your JAFZA trade licence is issued within 5 business days of document submission. The licence authorises you to conduct catering services activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 16,000.
Apply for Residence Visa
Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Your JAFZA licence includes 6 visa allocation. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,000. 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 catering services business in Jebel Ali Free Zone is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.
Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Catering Services in Other Jurisdictions
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Official Source
www.jafza.ae ↗Popular in JAFZA
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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