DED CAFEE Explained: Paying DED Fees in Dubai (2026 Guide)
What is DED CAFEE?
CAFEE is the Department of Economic Development (DED) electronic payment channel used to settle government fees in Dubai — new trade licences, licence renewals, activity amendments, trade name reservations, fines and more. Every payment voucher DED issues carries a CAFEE reference that can be paid online, through approved banks, or via authorised service centres.
When will you receive a CAFEE voucher?
- Issuing a new mainland licence after initial approval
- Trade licence renewal each year
- Adding an activity, changing the company name, or updating the MOA
- Paying inspection fines or administrative fees
How to pay DED CAFEE
- Online: through the Dubai Economy (Invest in Dubai) portal with a card.
- Bank: at approved UAE banks using the voucher number.
- Service centre: through an authorised PRO/typing centre — SAM Global Services settles CAFEE payments for clients daily.
Common CAFEE problems we solve
Expired vouchers, payments made against the wrong reference, amounts that do not match the transaction, and renewals blocked by unpaid fines. Because we process DED transactions every day, we catch these issues before they delay your licence.
FAQ
Is CAFEE only for mainland companies?
Yes — CAFEE is a Dubai DED (mainland) payment channel. Free zone fees are paid directly to the free zone authority.
Can SAM Global pay CAFEE on my behalf?
Yes. Send us your voucher on WhatsApp (+971 58 626 3634) and we settle it the same day with an official receipt.