Catering Services in Sharjah DED
Starting From
AED 7,500
Setup Time
3 Business Days
Visa Quota
0 Visas
Location
Sharjah
About Catering Services
Sharjah Mainland has earned its reputation as a leading mainland for food & beverage businesses, offering a streamlined setup process and competitive cost structure.
Operating from Sharjah Mainland gives your Catering Services business access to Sharjah's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, 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 Sharjah Mainland 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 Sharjah DED for Catering Services?
Choosing Sharjah DED 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 setup, which is particularly valuable for catering services 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 catering services professionals. Furthermore, industrial areas available positions your catering services 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.
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) | 3,500 |
| Ejari Office | 8,000 |
| Co-Working | 4,000 |
| Private Office | 15,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 19,000 |
* 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 Sharjah DED 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. 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.
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
Following DED approval, your Sharjah mainland trade licence is issued within 3 business days. The licence authorises you to conduct catering services activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 7,500.
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.
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 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
The annual licence renewal for a Catering Services Sharjah DED company costs approximately AED 7,500, 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.
Catering Services in Other Jurisdictions
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Official Source
www.sharjah.gov.ae ↗Popular in Sharjah 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.
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