Food & Beverage Trading in Abu Dhabi Global Market for Indian nationals
Free ZoneFood & BeverageRegulated Activity

Food & Beverage Trading in ADGM

Starting From

AED 11,700

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

4 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Food & Beverage Trading

Setting up a Food & Beverage Trading business in Abu Dhabi Global Market as an Indian citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to India-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Indian business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at ADGM has been streamlined significantly, with most food & beverage licences processed within 5 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 11,700, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your food & beverage trading business in Abu Dhabi Global Market. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why ADGM for Food & Beverage Trading?

Abu Dhabi Global Market is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for food & beverage businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers international financial centre, which is particularly valuable for food & beverage trading operations. Additionally, common law jurisdiction 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 15,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 4 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Own courts system further enhances the appeal of ADGM for food & beverage trading professionals. Furthermore, robust regulatory framework positions your food & beverage trading business for long-term success in the region. With Abu Dhabi continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, ADGM 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 Indian nationals specifically, the Abu Dhabi government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Indian business community.

International financial centre
Common law jurisdiction
Own courts system
Robust regulatory framework
Abu Dhabi's premier business hub

Visa Requirements for Indian Nationals

For Indian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days. For business setup, a proper residence visa is required. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your food & beverage trading business in ADGM.

Banking for Indian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your food & beverage trading company in ADGM: Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks. Many banks have dedicated Indian business desks. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Indian business structures.

Document Attestation for Indian Nationals

Document attestation for Indian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in India, (2) Attestation by MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to food & beverage trading businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid India passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by MEA (Ministry of External Affairs)
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Signed application form from ADGM authority
5Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
6Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
7Relevant industry experience documentation
8Detailed business plan or activity description

Regulatory Note: Food & Beverage Trading 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 Fee11,700
Visa Package (per visa)5,500
Flexi Desk15,000
Shared Office30,000
Private Office70,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 32,200

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

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your food & beverage trading business plan and the best ADGM licence options for Indian nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from India through MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the food & beverage trading licence application to ADGM. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official ADGM trade licence within 5–8 business days.

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks.

7

Start Operations

Your food & beverage trading business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your food & beverage trading in ADGM? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionADGM
TypeFree Zone
EmirateAbu Dhabi
License FeeAED 11,700
Setup Time5 days
Visa Quota4
Activity Code56107

Official Source

www.adgm.com

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 Food & Beverage Trading?

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