The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Why It's a Must-Have for Every Skincare Routine
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Why It's a Must-Have for Every Skincare Routine

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Skincare’s Best Hydration SecretIf you have ever struggled wit...

Hydrate Deeply with Drunk Elephant B-Hydra
 Hydrate Deeply with Drunk Elephant B-Hydra

Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration SerumThe Secret to Lasting Hydration:When it comes to ski...

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum Review – Glow & Anti-Aging
TruSkin Vitamin C Serum Review – Glow & Anti-Aging

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum - Anti-Aging & Hydration for Radiant SkinIf you're looking for glowing,...

Lattafa Khamrah Perfume: A Unisex Classic
 Lattafa Khamrah Perfume: A Unisex Classic

Lattafa Khamrah for Unisex Eau de PerfumeFragrance is more than just scent. It's the personality in...

Chanel Le Teint Ultra Fluide: Flawless Finish
Chanel Le Teint Ultra Fluide: Flawless Finish

Chanel Le Teint Ultra Fluide Foundation – Luxury in Every DropIf you're looking for a foundation tha...

How to Start a Small Business in Dubai -2025 Guide
How to Start a Small Business in Dubai -2025 Guide

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.

Why Choose Dubai for Your Business?

  • 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.

Step-by-Step Guide to Start a Small Business in Dubai

1. Choose Your Business Activity

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.

2. Decide Between Free Zone or Mainland Setup

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.

3. Choose a Business Name

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.

4. Apply for a Business License

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 Licenseservices, consultancy, freelancers

  • Commercial Licensetrade and retail

  • Industrial Licensemanufacturing and production

Costs vary but typically range between AED 8,000–15,000 for small startups.

5. Secure a Business Location

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.

6. Open a Corporate Bank Account

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.

7. Apply for Visas (If Needed)

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:

Top