Food & Beverage Trading in Dubai DED
Starting From
AED 12,000
Setup Time
3 Business Days
Visa Quota
0 Visas
Location
Dubai
About Food & Beverage Trading
The UAE continues to attract British entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Dubai DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for food & beverage trading 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 Mainland gives your Food & Beverage Trading business access to Dubai'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 food & beverage trading businesses in Dubai 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 Dubai DED for Food & Beverage Trading?
Choosing Dubai DED 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 trade anywhere in the uae, which is particularly valuable for food & beverage trading operations. Additionally, government contracts eligibility 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 8,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. No geographic restrictions further enhances the appeal of Dubai DED for food & beverage trading professionals. Furthermore, wider business scope positions your food & beverage trading business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Dubai 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.
For British nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large British business community.
Visa Requirements for British Nationals
Banking for British Business Owners
Document Attestation for British 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) | 4,500 |
| Ejari Office | 15,000 |
| Co-Working | 8,000 |
| Private Office | 30,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 31,500 |
* 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 Dubai DED licence options for British nationals.
Document Preparation
Prepare and attest all required documents from United Kingdom through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the UAE Embassy.
Licence Application
Submit the food & beverage trading licence application to Dubai DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.
Trade Licence Issued
Receive your official Dubai DED trade licence within 3–6 business days.
Visa Processing
Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.
Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account. British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.
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: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Since the UAE's 2020 Commercial Companies Law amendment, British nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including food & beverage trading.
Food & Beverage Trading in Other Jurisdictions
Get Started Today
Ready to set up your food & beverage trading in Dubai DED? Our team is here to help.
SPEAK TO AN ADVISORWHATSAPP USQuick Facts
Official Source
www.dubaided.gov.ae ↗Popular in Dubai 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.
Ready to Start Your Food & Beverage Trading?
Get a personalised quote for setting up your food & beverage trading in Dubai DED. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.