Food & Beverage Trading in RAK Mainland
MainlandFood & BeverageRegulated Activity

Food & Beverage Trading in RAK DED

Starting From

AED 5,500

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Ras Al Khaimah

About Food & Beverage Trading

Entrepreneurs seeking to start a Food & Beverage Trading business in the UAE will find RAK Mainland to be one of the most attractive jurisdictions, thanks to its strategic location and comprehensive support services.

Operating from RAK Mainland gives your Food & Beverage Trading business access to Ras Al Khaimah'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 RAK 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 RAK DED for Food & Beverage Trading?

Choosing RAK 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 cost-effective setup, which is particularly valuable for food & beverage trading operations. Additionally, industrial land availability 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 3,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Trade anywhere in the UAE further enhances the appeal of RAK DED for food & beverage trading professionals. Furthermore, tourism and hospitality growth positions your food & beverage trading business for long-term success in the region. With Ras Al Khaimah continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, RAK 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.

Cost-effective setup
Industrial land availability
Trade anywhere in the UAE
Tourism and hospitality growth
Strategic northern location

Requirements & Documents

1Detailed business plan or activity description
2Completed application form for trade licence
3Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
4No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable
5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
6Relevant industry experience documentation
7Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality
8Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

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 Fee5,500
Visa Package (per visa)3,200
Ejari Office5,000
Co-Working3,000
Private Office10,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 13,700

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

Setup Timeline

1

Initial Consultation

Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your food & beverage trading business objectives, optimal licence structure, and RAK DED as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.

2

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.

3

Prepare & Submit Documents

Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. For food & beverage trading, additional documents including professional qualifications and Dubai Municipality approvals are required. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.

4

Obtain Trade Licence

Following DED approval, your Ras Al Khaimah mainland trade licence is issued within 2 business days. The licence authorises you to conduct food & beverage trading activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 5,500.

5

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 3,200. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.

6

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.

7

Start Operations

With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your food & beverage trading business in RAK Mainland is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.

Total estimated time: 2 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, your food & beverage trading licence from RAK DED entitles you to apply for residence visas. The number of visas depends on your office space size — larger offices qualify for more visas. Each visa costs approximately AED 3,200.

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for food & beverage trading in RAK DED:

Get Started Today

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

SPEAK TO AN ADVISORWHATSAPP US

Quick Facts

JurisdictionRAK DED
Typemainland
EmirateRas Al Khaimah
License FeeAED 5,500
Setup Time2 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code56107

Official Source

www.rak.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.

Ready to Start Your Food & Beverage Trading?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your food & beverage trading in RAK DED. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.