Dubai’s booming food industry is a magnet for investors seeking to enter a profitable and high-demand sector. If you’re planning to import, distribute, or sell edible products in the UAE, securing a foodstuff trading license in Dubai is a mandatory first step. This license grants legal authority to handle a wide range of food products under UAE regulations.
What is a Foodstuff Trading License?
A foodstuff trading license in Dubai is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and is required for businesses that deal with packaged food, grains, frozen items, spices, beverages, and other consumables. The license ensures compliance with food safety laws regulated by Dubai Municipality, making it essential for any legitimate foodstuff business in the city.
Why Choose RAG for Your Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai?
At RAG, we specialize in setting up businesses in Dubai with a focus on industry-specific compliance. Our team simplifies the licensing process—from trade name reservation to municipality approvals—ensuring your foodstuff trading license Dubai application is completed smoothly and without delays.
Requirements for Foodstuff Trading License Dubai
To legally operate your food-related business, here are the essential requirements to apply for a foodstuff trading license in Dubai:
- Select Approved Business Activity: Choose “Foodstuff Trading” under DED’s list of licensed activities.
- Reserve Trade Name: Register a unique and DED-approved trade name.
- Get Initial Approval: Obtain preliminary approval from the Department of Economic Development.
- Secure Commercial Space: Rent a shop or warehouse suitable for storing or displaying food items.
- Ejari Tenancy Contract: Your rental contract must be registered under the Ejari system.
- Municipality Food Control Approval: Dubai Municipality must inspect and approve your business premises for food safety.
- Memorandum of Association (MoA): Prepare and notarize MoA if you’re forming an LLC.
- Sponsor or Agent: Depending on business type, appoint a UAE local sponsor (for LLC) or service agent (for sole proprietorship).
Required Documents for Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai
To apply for your foodstuff trading license Dubai, the following documents are typically required:
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- Emirates ID copy (for UAE residents)
- Residence visa copy (if applicable)
- Trade name reservation certificate
- Initial approval from DED
- Ejari registered tenancy contract
- MoA (Memorandum of Association)
- Dubai Municipality approval for food premises
Cost of Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai
The average cost of obtaining a foodstuff trading license in Dubai ranges from AED 12,500 to AED 18,000, depending on factors like business structure, visa quota, and premises.
Breakdown of potential expenses:
- DED License Fees: AED 8,000 – AED 12,000
- Ejari / Rent: Varies by location
- Municipality Registration: AED 1,000 – AED 3,000
- Sponsorship Fees & Visa Costs: Applicable as per business type
At RAG, we provide competitive and transparent pricing tailored to your needs, helping you acquire your foodstuff trading license in Dubai without hidden charges.
