Coffee Shop in Dubai Healthcare City for British nationals
Free ZoneFood & BeverageRegulated Activity

Coffee Shop in DHCC

Starting From

AED 30,000

Setup Time

10 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Coffee Shop

The UAE continues to attract British entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and DHCC is one of the most popular jurisdictions for coffee shop operations. One of the largest Western expatriate communities (~120,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Dubai Healthcare City gives your Coffee Shop business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as clinic space, 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 coffee shop businesses in Dubai Healthcare City 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 DHCC for Coffee Shop?

Choosing DHCC for your coffee shop business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers dedicated healthcare free zone, which is particularly valuable for coffee shop operations. Additionally, regulated clinical environment 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 35,000 per year for a office, 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. Medical professionals network further enhances the appeal of DHCC for coffee shop professionals. Furthermore, international healthcare standards positions your coffee shop business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DHCC 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 British nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large British business community.

Dedicated healthcare free zone
Regulated clinical environment
Medical professionals network
International healthcare standards
Integrated healthcare ecosystem

Visa Requirements for British Nationals

For British entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your coffee shop business in DHCC.

Banking for British Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your coffee shop company in DHCC: British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. UK-regulated banking history is viewed favourably by UAE banks. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand British business structures.

Document Attestation for British Nationals

Document attestation for British nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in United Kingdom, (2) Attestation by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to coffee shop businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality
5Completed application form for trade licence
6Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
8Detailed business plan or activity description

Regulatory Note: Coffee Shop 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 Fee30,000
Visa Package (per visa)6,000
Clinic Space50,000
Office35,000
Private Office60,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 86,000

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

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your coffee shop business plan and the best DHCC licence options for British nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United Kingdom through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the coffee shop licence application to DHCC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DHCC trade licence within 10–13 business days.

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

7

Start Operations

Your coffee shop business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 10 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DHCC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including British nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your coffee shop in DHCC? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionDHCC
TypeFree Zone
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 30,000
Setup Time10 days
Visa Quota6
Activity Code56103

Official Source

www.dhcc.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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Get a personalised quote for setting up your coffee shop in DHCC. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.