Foodstuff Trading in DIC
Starting From
AED 15,000
Setup Time
5 Business Days
Visa Quota
5 Visas
Location
Dubai
About Foodstuff Trading
The UAE continues to attract Italian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and DIC is one of the most popular jurisdictions for foodstuff trading operations. Growing Italian business community (~15,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.
Operating from Dubai Internet City gives your Foodstuff 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 foodstuff trading businesses in Dubai Internet City 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 DIC for Foodstuff Trading?
Choosing DIC for your foodstuff trading business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.
The jurisdiction offers premier it and tech hub, which is particularly valuable for foodstuff trading operations. Additionally, home to global tech companies 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 12,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 5 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Strategic Media City cluster further enhances the appeal of DIC for foodstuff trading professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your foodstuff trading business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DIC 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.
Visa Requirements for Italian Nationals
Banking for Italian Business Owners
Document Attestation for Italian Nationals
Requirements & Documents
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
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| License Fee | 15,000 |
| Visa Package (per visa) | 5,000 |
| Flexi Desk | 12,000 |
| Shared Office | 20,000 |
| Private Office | 45,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 32,000 |
* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.
Setup Timeline
Consultation
Free consultation with IBA to discuss your foodstuff trading business plan and the best DIC licence options for Italian nationals.
Document Preparation
Prepare and attest all required documents from Italy through Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Prefettura and the UAE Embassy.
Licence Application
Submit the foodstuff trading licence application to DIC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.
Trade Licence Issued
Receive your official DIC trade licence within 5–8 business days.
Visa Processing
Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Italian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days.
Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account. Italian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.
Start Operations
Your foodstuff 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. DIC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Italian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.
Foodstuff Trading in Other Jurisdictions
Get Started Today
Ready to set up your foodstuff trading in DIC? Our team is here to help.
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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 DIC. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.