Dubai is one of the fastest-growing food and beverage hubs in the region. From gourmet restaurants and food trucks to packaged food suppliers and cloud kitchens, the opportunities are endless. If you’re planning to launch your F&B venture in Dubai, one of the best options is to get a DMCC Food and Beverage License in Dubai, UAE.
The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) is a world-class Free Zone known for its robust infrastructure, 100% foreign ownership, and supportive regulatory environment. It offers specialized licensing options for businesses in the food and beverage industry looking to serve the local or international market.
What is a DMCC Food and Beverage License in Dubai, UAE?
A DMCC Food and Beverage License allows you to legally operate a food-related business within the Free Zone. This license is issued by the DMCC Authority and is suitable for companies involved in:
- Food trading
- Beverage distribution
- Packaged food supply
- Coffee and tea businesses
- Online food delivery services
- Catering or food consultancy services
While restaurant operations within DMCC are limited due to zoning, many F&B trading and supply chain businesses thrive in the Free Zone.
Why Choose a DMCC Food and Beverage License?
The DMCC Food and Beverage License offers 100% foreign ownership, tax-free benefits, and access to world-class infrastructure. It’s ideal for entrepreneurs in food trading, packaging, or logistics. With simplified setup and global credibility, DMCC provides a strong foundation for growth in the UAE’s booming F&B sector.
100% Foreign Ownership
As a foreign investor, you retain full control over your company, profits, and decision-making.
Zero Corporate and Income Tax
Operating in DMCC comes with tax exemptions, including 0% personal and corporate income tax.
Global Trade Access
With proximity to Jebel Ali Port and global supply chains, DMCC is ideal for food import-export businesses.
Modern Infrastructure and Logistics
The Free Zone is fully equipped for cold storage, food packaging, warehousing, and transportation needs.
Flexible Office and Warehouse Options
Choose from Flexi-desks, office spaces, and industrial warehouses tailored to food businesses.
Types of Food and Beverage Activities Allowed in DMCC
DMCC supports a wide range of food and beverage activities, including foodstuff trading, beverage import-export, packaged food supply, cold storage, online food retailing, and F&B consultancy. Whether you’re in distribution, logistics, or e-commerce, DMCC gives you the flexibility to build a compliant and scalable operation.
Foodstuff Trading
Engage in the import, export, storage, and distribution of packaged or processed food items.
Beverage Trading
Sell non-alcoholic beverages such as coffee, juices, soft drinks, and energy drinks.
Packaged Food Supply
Distribute packaged foods like snacks, baked goods, frozen meals, and dietary products.
Food Logistics and Warehousing
Operate cold storage units and manage food supply chain logistics.
Online Food and Beverage Business
Run digital food ordering platforms or e-commerce stores selling food products.
Food Consulting and Marketing
Offer product development, quality control, branding, and marketing support for food businesses.
DMCC Food and Beverage License Cost in Dubai
The cost of a DMCC food and beverage license varies depending on your activity, office size, and visa requirements. Here’s an approximate breakdown:
- License fee: AED 12,000 – AED 20,000
- Office or warehouse rental: AED 15,000 – AED 80,000/year
- Visa cost: AED 3,500 – AED 6,000 per person
- Registration and admin fees: AED 9,000 – AED 12,000 (one-time)
Additional costs may apply for health permits, food safety certifications, or equipment approvals depending on your business model.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a DMCC Food and Beverage License
Start by selecting your food activity, reserving your business name, and submitting documents online. Choose your preferred office or warehouse, pay the required fees, and receive your license. The DMCC process is digital, efficient, and designed to help F&B businesses launch quickly and operate with confidence.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
Identify your exact business model – trading, consulting, online sales, or warehousing.
Step 2: Reserve Trade Name
Pick a business name that complies with DMCC regulations.
Step 3: Apply Online
Fill out the initial license application through the DMCC company setup portal.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
Upload passport copies, application forms, business plans, and proof of address.
Step 5: Select Office or Warehouse Space
Choose a Flexi-desk, standard office, or warehouse depending on your operational needs.
Step 6: Final Approval and License Issuance
Once documents are approved and fees are paid, your license will be issued.
Step 7: Apply for Visas and Permits
You can now apply for your visa, as well as food handling or health permits if needed.
Documents Required for DMCC Food and Beverage License
- Passport copy of each shareholder
- Proof of residential address
- Proposed company name and activity
- Business plan
- Lease agreement
- NOC (if under a UAE visa)
- Application form
DMCC Office and Warehouse Options for F&B Companies
DMCC offers tailored office and warehouse solutions to meet your business needs. Choose Flexi-desks for admin tasks, private offices for operations, or fully equipped warehouses for food storage and logistics. Each option ensures compliance with health standards and supports your license and visa requirements.
Flexi Desk
Cost-effective solution with limited physical presence. Ideal for consultancies or digital food businesses.
Standard Office Space
Suitable for trading and administrative operations.
Warehouse Facilities
For businesses dealing with food storage, logistics, and distribution. DMCC offers units with cold storage, hygiene compliance, and loading docks.
Health and Safety Requirements for Food Businesses
- Food Safety Management System (FSMS) must be implemented
- Compliance with Dubai Municipality regulations
- Regular inspections and hygiene audits may be required
- Employee health cards and food handler certifications mandatory
- Proper waste management and temperature control practices
Benefits of DMCC License for Food and Beverage Business
- Full repatriation of capital and profits
- Recognition by global trading partners
- Access to import/export services and freight forwarders
- Ease of opening bank accounts and payment gateways
- Strong business community within DMCC
Can You Operate a Restaurant with DMCC License?
DMCC primarily supports trading, consultancy, and logistics within the food sector. However, setting up a physical restaurant or café may require additional permits and approvals, or setup in a different zone.
You can still manage the supply chain, packaging, or cloud kitchen operations from within DMCC.
DMCC vs Other Free Zones for F&B License
| Feature | DMCC | Other Free Zones |
| Ownership | 100% Foreign | 100% Foreign |
| Infrastructure | World-class, industry-ready | Varies |
| Focus on F&B | Strong in trading/logistics | Strong in production |
| Setup Speed | 5–10 working days | 10–15 working days |
| Market Access | Excellent global trade links | Varies |
Legal Compliance for F&B Businesses in DMCC
- Annual license renewal
- Office/warehouse lease maintenance
- Compliance with Dubai Municipality and UAE food laws
- Import/export documentation and customs clearance compliance
- Health inspections and food safety certifications
Who Should Apply for a DMCC Food and Beverage License?
- International food brands entering the UAE market
- Entrepreneurs launching packaged food businesses
- Coffee, tea, or snack distributors
- Import/export traders of food items
- E-commerce platforms for F&B products
- Cold storage and warehousing firms
Conclusion
The DMCC Food and Beverage License in Dubai, UAE is an excellent option for investors and entrepreneurs looking to enter the growing F&B industry in the region. With strong regulatory support, global trade access, and advanced infrastructure, DMCC offers a future-ready ecosystem for your business to thrive.
Whether you’re starting a food trading company, an online grocery platform, or a specialty beverage brand, DMCC gives you the credibility, flexibility, and scalability you need.
For expert help with licensing, documentation, and setup, it’s always best to work with experienced business setup consultants in Dubai, UAE.
FAQs
Can I sell food products online with a DMCC license?
Yes, the license allows for digital F&B sales and online trading within legal guidelines.
Can I open a restaurant in DMCC?
Not directly. For restaurants or dine-in outlets, it’s better to set up in a dedicated hospitality zone. DMCC is better for trading and supply chain businesses.
How long does it take to get a DMCC F&B license?
On average, 5–10 working days, depending on documentation and approvals.
Do I need a warehouse for food trading in DMCC?
If you’re storing or distributing physical products, yes. DMCC offers fully equipped warehousing options.
Are there health requirements for food businesses?
Yes. You must meet hygiene standards, obtain food handler certifications, and comply with safety inspections.
What is the minimum investment to start a food business in DMCC?
You can start from AED 30,000 to AED 50,000, including license, office, and initial setup.
Is the DMCC license valid outside the Free Zone?
You can trade internationally or within Free Zones. To trade in mainland, use a distributor or local agent.
Can I sponsor employees under this license?
Yes, depending on your office or warehouse space, you can sponsor staff for operations.
Is DMCC good for global food export businesses?
Absolutely. With access to Jebel Ali Port and global logistics partners, it’s ideal for export-driven companies.
Can I start a cloud kitchen under a DMCC license?
Yes, but it may need extra approvals for food preparation. DMCC supports virtual kitchen operations with logistics integration.
