Food & Beverage Trading in DIFC
Starting From
AED 12,000
Setup Time
5 Business Days
Visa Quota
6 Visas
Location
Dubai
About Food & Beverage Trading
The UAE continues to attract Iranian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and DIFC is one of the most popular jurisdictions for food & beverage trading operations. Historic trading community (~100,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.
Operating from Dubai International Financial Centre gives your Food & Beverage Trading 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 food & beverage trading businesses in Dubai International Financial Centre 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 DIFC for Food & Beverage Trading?
Choosing DIFC for your food & beverage trading business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.
The jurisdiction offers independent legal framework (common law), which is particularly valuable for food & beverage trading operations. Additionally, own courts and arbitration centre 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 18,000 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. Premier financial hub further enhances the appeal of DIFC for food & beverage trading professionals. Furthermore, zero tax for 50 years positions your food & beverage trading business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DIFC 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 Iranian nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Iranian business community.
Visa Requirements for Iranian Nationals
Banking for Iranian Business Owners
Document Attestation for Iranian Nationals
Requirements & Documents
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
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| License Fee | 12,000 |
| Visa Package (per visa) | 5,500 |
| Flexi Desk | 18,000 |
| Shared Office | 35,000 |
| Private Office | 80,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 35,500 |
* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.
Setup Timeline
Consultation
Free consultation with IBA to discuss your food & beverage trading business plan and the best DIFC licence options for Iranian nationals.
Document Preparation
Prepare and attest all required documents from Iran through Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.
Licence Application
Submit the food & beverage trading licence application to DIFC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.
Trade Licence Issued
Receive your official DIFC trade licence within 5–8 business days.
Visa Processing
Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.
Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account. Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements.
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. DIFC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Iranian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.
Food & Beverage Trading in Other Jurisdictions
Get Started Today
Ready to set up your food & beverage trading in DIFC? Our team is here to help.
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Official Source
www.difc.ae ↗Popular in DIFC
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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