IFZA — International Free Zone Authority
- Company setup from
12,900 AED
Registration in 5 days
Flexi-desks, offices
IFZA is a low-cost business setup solution in Dubai, perfect for startups and SMEs involved in trading, consulting, or services.…
Introduction to the foodstuff trading business in Dubai
Dubai has rapidly transformed into a global nexus for trade and commerce, making it a magnet for entrepreneurs worldwide. The foodstuff trading business in Dubai, in particular, has seen significant growth due to the city's signature location, sustainable infrastructure, and advantageous government policies. Whether you're considering starting a small venture or expanding an existing enterprise, understanding the landscape of business in Dubai is crucial for success.
Types of foodstuff you can trade in Dubai
The industry of foodstuff trading in Dubai offers a vast array of opportunities due to the city's multicultural demographic and its role as a global trade hub. Understanding the types of foodstuff you can trade is essential for carving out your niche in the market.
Overview of popular food categories
- Grains and cereals: rice, wheat, oats, and barley are staples with consistent demand.
- Dairy products: milk, cheese, butter, and yogurt from various countries.
- Meat and poultry: including halal-certified products, which are essential in the region.
- Seafood: fresh and frozen fish, shrimp, and other seafood delicacies.
- Fruits and vegetables: both fresh and processed options to cater to diverse tastes.
- Processed foods: canned goods, sauces, and ready-to-eat meals.
- Beverages: juices, soft drinks, and specialty beverages.
- Health and organic foods: gluten-free, vegan, and organic products are gaining popularity.
Trends in the foodstuff market
- Health and wellness. A growing trend towards organic and health-oriented foodstuff.
- Convenience foods. Increased demand for ready-to-eat and easy-to-prepare meals.
- Ethnic foods. The diverse population fuels the demand for international cuisines.
- Sustainable practices. Eco-friendly packaging and sustainable sourcing are becoming important.
- Digital transformation. Rise of e-commerce platforms for foodstuff trading, enhancing market reach.
SHAMS company formation process
Company registration can be done remotely regardless of if you are in the UAE or abroad, your company can be registered in 3-5 working days.
Determine which type of license offered by the SHAMS free zone suits you. It is crucial to approach this question carefully, as choosing the wrong activity, registration authority, or location can lead to errors during company registration, creating problems with opening a bank account or getting a residence visa.
State the legal status of your company in the SHAMS free zone. It can be:
- LLC (Limited Liability Company)
- Branch of a foreign company
SHAMS requires a minimal documentation package.
- passport with a 6-month validity
- personal details like phone number and email
- three company name options
- confirmation of business activity
Registration can be completed remotely - you don’t need to be physically present. Also you have to pay all the registration and processing fees at this step.
These are the documents you receive from the free zone authority:
- Certificate of incorporation
- Trade license
- Lease agreement
- MoA and Articles of Association
Receive the establishment card containing information about your company and visa quotes. The timeframe of issuance is typically 3-5 working days.
If you’re outside of the UAE during the processing of the entry permit, you will need to come to the country when the document is issued within 60 days to complete the medical test and biometrics for your visa. If you’re in the UAE when the entry permit is issued, a status change will be done from your previous UAE tourist/residency visa to the new one.
Undergo a medical checkup and submit documents for a residence visa. Different registration packages may provide for a varying number of visas available for owners and employees of the company.
Once your visa is issued, secure your Emirates ID card. The processing and issuance of a visa and Emirates ID usually take 5-7 working days after the visa approval.
Apply to a UAE bank to open a corporate bank account in one the UAE local or international banks.
With our business setup services, you can navigate this process quickly and effortlessly. You don`t even have to arrive in Dubai — the registration procedure can be completed remotely. However, you will need to visit the UAE for medical checkups, visa formalities, and account opening.
SHAMS license cost
The basic (and the cheapest) package for a SHAMS business setup costs 5,750 AED. You can choose up to 5 media activities under a single business license, and you are able to upgrade to a package with visas. The license duration is 1 year.
| TYPE OF LICENSE | COST, AED |
|---|---|
| 0-visa media package | 5,750 |
| 1-visa media package | 7,350 |
| 0-visa standard company package | 6,875 |
| 0-visa standard company package | 8,475 |
Elena O.
We'll find the ideal free zone for your business
SHAMS Company Formation
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