What documents does a Filipino national need to start a foodstuff trading business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Philippines passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Philippines, attested documents via Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and a business plan for your foodstuff trading venture.

How long does it take for a Filipino citizen to set up a foodstuff trading company in Fujairah DED?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 3–6 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 13–23 business days.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Foodstuff Trading company in Fujairah Mainland?

Yes, following the recent amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for most mainland activities, including foodstuff trading. Previously, a local sponsor holding 51% was required, but this is no longer the case.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Foodstuff Trading business in Fujairah Mainland?

The annual licence renewal for a Foodstuff Trading Fujairah DED company costs approximately AED 6,000, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

How long does it take to get a Foodstuff Trading licence in Fujairah DED?

The typical processing time for a foodstuff trading licence at Fujairah DED is 3 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring Dubai Municipality approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Foodstuff Trading company in Fujairah DED?

Most of the setup process for a foodstuff trading business in Fujairah DED can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

What documents do I need to set up a Foodstuff Trading business in Fujairah DED?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by Dubai Municipality. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Foodstuff Trading in Fujairah Mainland for Filipino nationals

MainlandCommercialRegulated Activity

Foodstuff Trading in Fujairah DED

Starting From

AED 6,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Fujairah

About Foodstuff Trading

The UAE continues to attract Filipino entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Fujairah DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for foodstuff trading operations. Third-largest expatriate community in the UAE (~700,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Fujairah Mainland gives your Foodstuff Trading business access to Fujairah'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 foodstuff trading businesses in Fujairah 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 Fujairah DED for Foodstuff Trading?

Choosing Fujairah DED for your foodstuff trading business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers east coast port access, which is particularly valuable for foodstuff trading operations. Additionally, oil and shipping hub 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 across the UAE further enhances the appeal of Fujairah DED for foodstuff trading professionals. Furthermore, cost-effective licensing positions your foodstuff trading business for long-term success in the region. With Fujairah continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Fujairah DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established commercial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

East coast port access

Oil and shipping hub

Trade across the UAE

Cost-effective licensing

Growing commercial centre

Visa Requirements for Filipino Nationals

Filipino nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. Once your foodstuff trading licence is issued by Fujairah DED, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 8–15 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Filipino Business Owners

Filipino entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation. A solid business plan helps expedite the process. For your foodstuff trading business in Fujairah DED, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Filipino business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Philippines-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Filipino Nationals

Filipino nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for foodstuff trading), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to Fujairah DED.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Philippines passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Completed application form for trade licence

5Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

6Passport-sized photographs with white background

7Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address

8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

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	6,000
Visa Package (per visa)	3,200
Ejari Office	5,000
Co-Working	3,000
Private Office	12,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 14,200

* 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 Fujairah DED licence options for Filipino nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Philippines through Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the foodstuff trading licence application to Fujairah DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official Fujairah DED trade licence within 3–6 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Filipino nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Filipino entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation.

Start Operations

Your foodstuff 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, Filipino nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including foodstuff trading.

Foodstuff Trading in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750