How to Open a Business in Dubai in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners and Residents

Dubai is one of the most business-friendly cities in the world — no wonder thousands of entrepreneurs ask every month: How to open a business in Dubai? Whether you're a first-time founder or relocating your existing company, this 2025 guide will walk you through the exact steps, legal requirements, costs, and expert tips for starting a successful venture in Dubai.

Why Open a Business in Dubai?

• 0% personal income tax
• Full foreign ownership in Free Zones and many Mainland activities
• Fast registration process — often under 7 days
• Access to a global customer base through logistics, ports, and airports
• Investor-friendly policies and digital government systems

Step-by-Step: How to Open a Business in Dubai (2025 Edition)

Step 1: Choose the Business Activity

• Dubai has over 2,000 licensed business activities, including:
  • Commercial (e.g., trading, logistics)
  • Industrial (e.g., manufacturing)
  • Professional (e.g., consultancy, design, legal)
• ✅ Pro Tip: Some activities are restricted or require approvals (e.g., medical, education, food)

Step 2: Select a Jurisdiction – Mainland or Free Zone

➡️ Not sure? Contact our team to choose the best option for your activity and budget.

Step 3: Register Your Trade Name

• Must be unique, not offensive, and not match government names
• Register via:
  • DED for Mainland businesses
  • Free Zone authority for zone-based setups

Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval

• This is a non-objection certificate from authorities to proceed with the setup
• Required before drafting MOA or leasing premises

Step 5: Draft Your Memorandum of Association (MOA)

• Outlines shareholder structure, ownership %s, profit sharing
• Mandatory for both Mainland and Free Zone companies

Step 6: Choose a Business Location

• For Mainland: Must lease physical office space
• For Free Zone: You may use:
  • Flexi-desk (shared office)
  • Virtual office (in some zones)
  • Private office (if required)

Step 7: Submit Final Documents and Get Your License

• Pay the license fee
• Submit passport copies, visa page, Emirates ID (if resident), NOC (if applicable)
• Get your license issued in 2–5 working days

Step 8: Apply for Visas and Bank Account

• Investor visas and employee visas can be obtained
• Affinitas can assist in:
  • Opening corporate bank accounts
  • Getting tax registration (TRN)
  • Applying for dependent/family visas

Costs of Opening a Business in Dubai (2025)

Note: Prices vary based on zone, activity, and visa count. We provide fully customized packages.

Legal Tips from Affinitas Experts

• Don’t use your tourist visa to open a business — get a proper investor or partner visa
• If you plan to trade within the UAE, Mainland is preferred
• Always verify licensing requirements before launching your business website or advertising
• Choose a zone that aligns with your growth goals (e.g., logistics → JAFZA, e-commerce → Meydan)

Launch Your Business in Dubai and the Entire UAE

Get Your Free Consultation with Our Business Consultants!

Call Expert: +971 (0) 4 576 2903
Email: in*******@af***********.com
Visit Office: Fortune Tower, Jumeirah Lake Towers – Dubai
Contact Page: https://affinitasdmcc.com/contact/

How Affinitas DMCC Can Help

• Foundation and SPV setup in DMCC, ADGM & DIFC
• Tax optimization strategy for UK/UAE structures
• Business setup
• Corporate bank account opening

FAQs

Q: Can I open a business in Dubai without being a resident?
A: Yes, many Free Zones allow foreign investors to start a business remotely. However, you’ll need a visa to operate long-term.

Q: Do I need a sponsor or local partner?
A: No — in 2025, most business activities allow 100% foreign ownership.

Q: How long does the process take?
A: 2 to 7 working days on average, depending on the jurisdiction.