DED CAFEE Explained: Paying DED Fees in Dubai (2026 Guide)

<h2>What is DED CAFEE?</h2><p>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.</p><h2>When will you receive a CAFEE voucher?</h2><ul><li>Issuing a <a href="/en/business-setup/mainland">new mainland licence</a> after initial approval</li><li><a href="/en/business-setup/trade-license">Trade licence renewal</a> each year</li><li>Adding an activity, changing the company name, or updating the MOA</li><li>Paying inspection fines or administrative fees</li></ul><h2>How to pay DED CAFEE</h2><ol><li><strong>Online:</strong> through the Dubai Economy (Invest in Dubai) portal with a card.</li><li><strong>Bank:</strong> at approved UAE banks using the voucher number.</li><li><strong>Service centre:</strong> through an authorised PRO/typing centre — SAM Global Services settles CAFEE payments for clients daily.</li></ol><h2>Common CAFEE problems we solve</h2><p>Expired vouchers, payments made against the wrong reference, amounts that do not match the transaction, and renewals blocked by unpaid fines. Because we process <a href="/en/visa-services/pro-services">DED transactions</a> every day, we catch these issues before they delay your licence.</p><h2>FAQ</h2><h3>Is CAFEE only for mainland companies?</h3><p>Yes — CAFEE is a Dubai DED (mainland) payment channel. Free zone fees are paid directly to the free zone authority.</p><h3>Can SAM Global pay CAFEE on my behalf?</h3><p>Yes. Send us your voucher on WhatsApp (+971 58 626 3634) and we settle it the same day with an official receipt.</p>