Restaurant in Dubai Healthcare City
Free ZoneFood & BeverageRegulated Activity

Restaurant in DHCC

Starting From

AED 30,000

Setup Time

10 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Restaurant

Setting up a Restaurant business in Dubai Healthcare City offers a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to establish a strong presence in the UAE market.

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Restaurant business will benefit from dedicated healthcare free zone and regulated clinical environment. The DHCC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 30,000.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your restaurant setup in DHCC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why DHCC for Restaurant?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Healthcare City continues to attract restaurant entrepreneurs from around the world.

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

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

Requirements & Documents

1Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
2Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
3Signed application form from DHCC authority
4Passport-sized photographs with white background
5Detailed business plan or activity description
6Relevant industry experience documentation
7Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
8Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

Regulatory Note: Restaurant 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

Initial Consultation

Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your restaurant business objectives, optimal licence structure, and DHCC 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. DHCC has specific naming guidelines — the name must not conflict with existing registrations and should reflect your business activity. IBA handles the name reservation process.

3

Prepare & Submit Documents

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

4

Obtain Trade Licence

Your DHCC trade licence is issued within 10 business days of document submission. The licence authorises you to conduct restaurant activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 30,000.

5

Apply for Residence Visa

Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Your DHCC licence includes 6 visa allocation. Each visa costs approximately AED 6,000. 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 restaurant business in Dubai Healthcare City is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.

Total estimated time: 10 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

The total setup cost for a Restaurant business in DHCC starts from approximately AED 30,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 6,000 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for restaurant in DHCC:

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionDHCC
TypeFree Zone
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 30,000
Setup Time10 days
Visa Quota6
Activity Code56101

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.

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