Foodstuff Trading in Dubai Healthcare City for Italian nationals
Free ZoneCommercialRegulated Activity

Foodstuff Trading in DHCC

Starting From

AED 30,000

Setup Time

10 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Foodstuff Trading

Setting up a Foodstuff Trading business in Dubai Healthcare City as an Italian citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Italy-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Italian business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at DHCC has been streamlined significantly, with most commercial licences processed within 10 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 30,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your foodstuff trading business in Dubai Healthcare City. 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 DHCC for Foodstuff Trading?

Dubai Healthcare City is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for commercial businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers dedicated healthcare free zone, which is particularly valuable for foodstuff trading 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 foodstuff trading professionals. Furthermore, international healthcare standards positions your foodstuff trading 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 commercial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Italian nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Italian business community.

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

Visa Requirements for Italian Nationals

For Italian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Italian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 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 foodstuff trading business in DHCC.

Banking for Italian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your foodstuff trading company in DHCC: Italian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. EU banking standards are recognised by UAE banks. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Italian business structures.

Document Attestation for Italian Nationals

Document attestation for Italian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Italy, (2) Attestation by Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Prefettura, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to foodstuff trading businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Italy passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Prefettura
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Completed application form for trade licence
5Passport-sized photographs with white background
6Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

Regulatory Note: Foodstuff 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 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 foodstuff trading business plan and the best DHCC licence options for Italian nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Italy through Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Prefettura and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the foodstuff trading 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. Italian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days.

6

Bank Account

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

7

Start Operations

Your foodstuff trading 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 Italian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your foodstuff trading 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 Code46200

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.

Ready to Start Your Foodstuff Trading?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your foodstuff trading in DHCC. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.