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Dubai is one of the world’s most attractive hubs for entrepreneurs, thanks to its tax-friendly environment, excellent infrastructure, and access to global markets. Whether you're a UAE resident or an international investor, starting a small business in Dubai is easier than ever in 2025—with digital processes, flexible license options, and growing consumer demand.
This blog will guide you through the steps, requirements, and tips to successfully start a small business in Dubai this year.
No personal income tax
Strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa
100% foreign ownership in most sectors
Access to free zones and mainland business setups
Robust infrastructure and digital support
Dubai supports businesses across sectors like e-commerce, tourism, technology, retail, and professional services.
Start by selecting the UAE business activity you want to operate. This determines the license type and approval needed. Dubai has thousands of approved activities across sectors such as:
Food & Beverage
Consultancy
IT Services
Trading
Real Estate
E-commerce
You can find the full list on the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) website.
Free Zone:
100% foreign ownership
Ideal for export, tech, digital, or service businesses
Cannot directly trade with mainland without a distributor
Mainland:
Can trade freely within the UAE
100% foreign ownership allowed (as of 2021 reforms)
Requires local regulatory approvals
Each has pros and cons depending on your business goals.
The name must follow UAE naming rules. It should:
Avoid offensive or religious terms
Not include references to political groups
Be unique and reflect your business nature
End with a legal entity suffix (e.g., FZE, LLC)
You can reserve your trade name online via the DET portal.
Licensing is handled by:
Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) for mainland
Free Zone Authorities (like DMCC, DAFZA, IFZA) for free zones
License types include:
Professional License – services, consultancy, freelancers
Commercial License – trade and retail
Industrial License – manufacturing and production
Costs vary but typically range between AED 8,000–15,000 for small startups.
Depending on the setup:
Free zones offer flexible desk or office packages
Mainland setups require Ejari-registered office spaces
Some free zones allow virtual office licenses, especially for solo entrepreneurs or remote businesses.
You’ll need:
Business license
Passport copies of owners
Company formation documents
Office lease agreement
Popular banks in Dubai: Emirates NBD, RAKBANK, Mashreq, and international banks like HSBC.
Business owners and their employees can apply for residency visas through the company setup. You may also be eligible for a Golden Visa if you meet investment criteria.
Steps include:
Entry permit
Medical test
Emirates ID registration
Visa stamping
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