Catering Services in RAKEZ
Starting From
AED 7,500
Setup Time
3 Business Days
Visa Quota
3 Visas
Location
Ras Al Khaimah
About Catering Services
The UAE continues to attract Chinese entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and RAKEZ is one of the most popular jurisdictions for catering services operations. Rapidly growing community in the UAE (~300,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.
Operating from Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone gives your Catering Services business access to Ras Al Khaimah'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 Ras Al Khaimah Economic 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 RAKEZ for Catering Services?
Choosing RAKEZ for your catering services business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.
The jurisdiction offers cost-effective licensing, which is particularly valuable for catering services operations. Additionally, industrial and commercial zones 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 3,000 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 RAKEZ for catering services professionals. Furthermore, gateway to northern emirates positions your catering services business for long-term success in the region. With Ras Al Khaimah continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, RAKEZ 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 Chinese nationals specifically, the Ras Al Khaimah government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Chinese business community.
Visa Requirements for Chinese Nationals
Banking for Chinese Business Owners
Document Attestation for Chinese 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 | 7,500 |
| Visa Package (per visa) | 3,700 |
| Flexi Desk | 3,000 |
| Shared Office | 7,000 |
| Private Office | 15,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 14,200 |
* 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 RAKEZ licence options for Chinese nationals.
Document Preparation
Prepare and attest all required documents from China through Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT and the UAE Embassy.
Licence Application
Submit the catering services licence application to RAKEZ. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.
Trade Licence Issued
Receive your official RAKEZ trade licence within 3–6 business days.
Visa Processing
Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Chinese nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 30 days.
Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account. Chinese entrepreneurs benefit from strong UAE-China trade relations.
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. RAKEZ allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Chinese nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.
Catering Services in Other Jurisdictions
Get Started Today
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Official Source
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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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