Letโs be honest. Youโve been thinking about expanding or launching your business in Dubai, but the visa process feels like a mystery. Youโre not alone โ hundreds of Indian entrepreneurs ask the same question every month:
โWhatโs the real process to get a Dubai Business Visa for Indians?โ
Hereโs the thing & itโs not as complicated as it sounds. You just need to know the right steps, the right documents, and the right authority to deal with.
Letโs break it down, step-by-step.
What is the Dubai Business Visa for Indians?
The Dubai Business Visa for Indians is a long-term residency visa under the UAE Golden Visa program. Itโs designed specifically for foreign entrepreneurs, investors, and business founders who want to live and build a company in Dubai.
This visa lets you:
- Live in Dubai full-time
- Open a company and bank account
- Sponsor your family
- Get a residency ID (Emirates ID)
- Avoid constant visa renewals
Who Should Apply?
If you’re an Indian citizen who:
- Owns a business in India and wants to expand
- Wants to set up a new company in Dubai
- Plans to invest in an existing business or property
- Is a startup founder or entrepreneur
โฆthen youโre the perfect candidate for a Dubai Business Visa.
All the Necessary Documents Youโll Need
Hereโs your checklist โ donโt miss any of these:
- Passport Copy (valid for at least 6 months)
- Passport-size Photo (white background)
- Business Plan (clearly outlining your idea or venture)
- Proof of Business
- Trade License (if any)
- MOA (Memorandum of Association)
- Bank statements of Indian company
- Educational Certificates (optional but useful)
- Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)
- UAE Company Setup Proof (once registered)
Step-by-Step Process to Get Your Dubai Business Visa
Step 1: Choose Your Company Structure
Decide if youโre setting up:
- Mainland company
- Free Zone company
- Offshore company
Each comes with different rules for ownership, visa quota, and office space.
Pro tip: If you want full control and no local sponsor, go for a Free Zone company. Youโll also get multiple visa slots.
Step 2: Company Registration
Submit your trade name, business activity, and structure. Get initial approval from the relevant Free Zone or DED (Department of Economic Development).
Step 3: Apply for Investor Visa Entry Permit
Once your company is registered:
- Apply for your Investor/Partner Visa Entry Permit
- Youโll receive an entry permit (valid for 60 days)
This is the gateway to apply for the Dubai Business Visa for Indians.
Step 4: Change Status
You must change your visa status (within UAE) or enter using the new entry permit. This is required before your Emirates ID application.
Step 5: Medical Test & Biometrics
Every residency visa applicant must:
- Take a medical fitness test (blood test and chest X-ray)
- Submit biometric data (fingerprints and photo)
Step 6: Apply for Emirates ID and Visa Stamping
Once cleared:
- Apply for your Emirates ID (residency ID)
- Submit your passport for visa stamping
Congrats โ youโre now legally a Dubai resident on a business visa.
Costs of Dubai Business Visa for Indians
| Service | Approximate Cost (AED) |
| Company Registration (Free Zone) | 12,000 โ 20,000 |
| Investor Visa Fees | 3,000 โ 4,000 |
| Medical + Emirates ID | 1,000 โ 1,200 |
| Office Rent (optional) | Depends on location |
Note: Some Free Zones offer packages for Indians that combine business setup + 2 or 3 visas.
How Long Does It Take?
The entire process usually takes:
- 7 to 10 working days for company formation
- 5 to 7 working days for visa processing
- 1 week for Emirates ID issuance
So Yes! you can go from Indian entrepreneur to Dubai resident in under 3 weeks.
Why AB Capital Should Be Your First Call
You could do this alone, sure. But mistakes cost time and money. At AB Capital Business Setup Services, we are a FTA-approved business setup agency and have helped hundreds of Indian clients get their Dubai Business Visa smoothly.
We handle everything from:
- Paperwork
- Company setup
- Visa approvals
- Tax registration
- Bank account opening
You run your business. Weโll handle your license and visa.
Benefits of Having a Dubai Business Visa for Indians
- 100% business ownership (Free Zone)
- Tax advantages with 0% personal tax
- Strategic global business location
- Access to international markets
- Secure and stable residency
Final Word
If youโre an Indian entrepreneur dreaming of doing business in Dubai, this is the perfect time to act. The Dubai Business Visa for Indians gives you everything โ long-term stability, business freedom, and access to a booming market.
At AB Capital Services, we make the process smooth, legal, and fast.
FAQs
1. Can Indians get a Dubai business visa without a company in India?
Yes, you can register a new company in Dubai and still apply. Prior business experience helps but is not mandatory.
2. Is a local sponsor required for Indians?
Only for Mainland companies. Free Zone companies offer full ownership with no sponsor needed.
3. Can I bring my family on this visa?
Yes, after your visa is approved, you can sponsor your spouse, kids, and even parents.
4. Whatโs the minimum investment required?
Thereโs no fixed amount, but Free Zone licenses start at AED 12,000, including visa eligibility.
5. Can I work for another company on a business visa?
No. The visa is tied to your business. For employment, a work visa is required.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general guidance only and may change due to updates in government policies or regulations. For the most accurate and up-to-date advice, please consult with a licensed advisor or reach out to AB Capital Services directly.