Dubai Business Setup

Dubai has earned its place as one of the most business-friendly cities in the world. But what many aspiring entrepreneurs don’t realize is that you don’t need to be a millionaire to start here. In fact, with the right setup, structure, and guidance, you will learn about what is the minimum investment to start a business in Dubai and explore why it’s one of the most business-friendly cities in the world. The minimum cost depends on various factors, all of which we have covered in this blog, so read until the end and leave your valuable comments. This guide explores how to achieve low cost business setup in Dubai, what it really takes in terms of licensing and strategy, and what kind of businesses you can start in 2025 without breaking the bank. Why Start a Business in Dubai with Minimum Investment? Dubai’s economic landscape is designed to support business. The government actively encourages entrepreneurship, with streamlined licensing, e-government portals, and infrastructure ready for everything from digital startups to product trading companies. Here’s why thousands of global entrepreneurs choose to start with minimum investment to start business in Dubai: No personal income tax or capital gains tax Access to international markets and trade hubs Investor-friendly free zones Affordable licensing packages for SMEs and freelancers Fast-track visa processing and company registration Stable regulations and high global reputation For many, the UAE represents a rare opportunity: to start lean, stay legal, and scale fast. What Is the Minimum Investment to Start a Business in Dubai?   Let’s break down what “minimum” really means.   While setup costs vary depending on the activity, jurisdiction, and visa needs, it is possible to launch your business for as low as AED 12,500 and that too all-inclusive. This typically covers: Your business license (free zone or mainland) One UAE residency visa Business name registration Shared or flexi desk workspace Basic medical insurance (in some free zones) With smart planning, your low cost business setup in Dubai can become operational within days, not months and without the financial strain many expect. Best Business Activities for Low Cost Setup Certain activities naturally suit low investment business models. These do not require large upfront capital, office rent, or inventory, making them ideal for solo founders and startups. 1. Freelancing and Consultancy Whether you’re a digital marketer, graphic designer, business consultant, or life coach, freelance activities are in high demand. A freelance permit can be obtained through free zones with minimal documentation. 2. E-Commerce and Dropshipping The rise of online shopping in the UAE makes e-commerce one of the most attractive low investment options. A General Trading License with an E-commerce add-on gives you legal rights to sell online using your own website or third-party platforms. 3. Tech Services Web development, app creation, and software support services are always in demand. These can be operated entirely from a laptop, making them ideal for low overhead business setups. 4. Education and Training Tutoring, online courses, language training, and upskilling services are booming in Dubai. These can be operated online, making them cost-efficient and scalable. 5. Digital Content Creation From video editing and social media management to SEO writing and YouTube channel consulting, Dubai is a hotspot for creators offering value-driven content. Each of these sectors is compatible with minimum investment to start business in Dubai, and licenses can be tailored to suit your specific service. Mainland vs. Free Zone: What’s Affordable? Free Zone 100% foreign ownership Lower setup costs No requirement for a local sponsor Excellent for online, remote, and international businesses Packages available starting from AED 6,500 to AED 15,000 Mainland Can operate anywhere within the UAE Required for certain services like logistics or real estate Slightly higher initial investment, but more flexible long-term For most startups focused on services or digital offerings, free zones remain the go-to choice for minimum investment to start business in Dubai. What Is Included in a Low Cost Business Setup Package? Depending on the free zone, an affordable business setup package may include: Company registration and trade license One residency visa (optional in some zones) E-channel registration (for visa processing) Business address or flexi desk Medical and Emirates ID application support Bank account opening guidance It’s important to note that business setup in Dubai cost may differ slightly based on the number of shareholders, type of activity, visa quota, and additional add-ons. What to Watch Out For When Setting Up on a Budget?   Going cheap doesn’t mean cutting corners. Many new entrepreneurs face setbacks because they:   Pick the wrong business activity for their goals Choose the cheapest package without understanding renewal costs Work with agencies that don’t offer post-setup support Miss key documents for visa or bank account approvals Underestimate the value of local compliance and legal clarity Doing your research and working with experienced advisors can help you avoid these traps & especially when aiming for low-cost business setup in UAE. Final Word: Launching Smart with Minimum Investment to Start Business in Dubai Dubai offers one of the most business-friendly environments in the world. And yes, you can launch with minimum investment when you approach it strategically. Choosing the right business model, aligning with the proper free zone or jurisdiction, and understanding your compliance requirements from the start is key. Whether you are a solopreneur, a remote professional, or a side-hustler looking to go legit, there’s a path forward that fits your budget. Let AB Capital Services Help You Set Up Right At AB Capital Business Setup Services, we specialize in guiding entrepreneurs through low cost business setup in Dubai without hidden fees, compliance issues, or unnecessary delays. Our popular AED 12,500 all-inclusive package includes: General Trading License Free E-commerce License UAE Residency Visa Flexi Desk Office Health Insurance We handle everything from trade license issuance to visa processing and business bank account opening in as little as 3 business days. Ready to start your business the smart way? Get in touch today and let us help you turn your

Dubai is one of the most sought-after cities in the world for entrepreneurs and startups. With its tax-free policies, strategic global location, and investor-friendly regulations, the city offers endless opportunities. But here’s the best part: you don’t need a huge capital to get started. In this guide by AB Capital Services, we highlight the top 10 business ideas with minimum investment to start business in Dubai, helping you launch a profitable venture without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or an experienced investor, these business ideas are built around low cost business setup in Dubai, lean operations, and scalable potential. 1. Freelance Digital Marketing Services If you have skills in SEO, social media, content creation, or Google Ads, starting a digital marketing consultancy is a smart move. You can apply for a freelance license through a free zone, and operate fully online with minimum investment to start business in Dubai. No office required Free zone packages starting from AED 6,000 High demand from SMEs, startups, and e-commerce brands Know in detail about How to Open a Digital Marketing Agency in Dubai, UAE in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide 2. E-Commerce Store Selling products online through platforms like Amazon, Noon, or your own website is one of the best businesses in UAE today. You can start with dropshipping or selling curated products without warehousing, making it a great business with minimum investment to start business in Dubai. RAKEZ offers General Trading + E-commerce licenses for AED 12,500 Zero inventory needed if you choose dropshipping Easy scalability and high ROI 3. Content Writing or Translation Services Dubai is a multilingual hub with constant demand for content creation, copywriting, and translation services. If you’re fluent in more than one language or have a writing background, this is your lane. Freelance license available from multiple free zones Home-based or remote work setup Very low operational cost 4. Home-Based Bakery or Food Business The UAE has a thriving market for home-based food ventures — especially when it comes to unique, niche products like vegan treats, gluten-free baked goods, or ethnic cuisine. Food handler certificate required Ajman and Sharjah free zones offer licenses for home-based operations High profit margins with low cost business setup in UAE 5. Personal Fitness or Yoga Instructor With Dubai’s growing health-conscious population, personal fitness, yoga, or wellness coaching is in high demand. All you need is certification, a freelance license, and an Instagram page to get started. Minimum setup fees Operate from client locations, outdoors, or partner gyms Residency visa and trade license included in low-cost packages 6. Mobile Car Wash or Sanitization Services This is one of the fastest-growing small business ideas in the UAE. You can start a mobile car wash or sanitization company with just a few staff and basic equipment. No fixed office required Easy to get a service license from free zones Excellent for targeting residential communities 7. Social Media Management Agency Brands in Dubai want to be seen — and someone has to manage their content calendars, posts, and ads. That someone could be you. With a minimum investment to start business in Dubai, you can offer social media management services as a freelancer or under a small marketing agency license. License available for under AED 10,000 Operate solo or hire interns remotely High scalability and strong demand across industries 8. Tourism and Travel Consultancy Despite global changes, Dubai remains a top tourist destination. Starting a travel advisory or tour package company is one of the best businesses in UAE if you know how to plan experiences, book accommodations, or offer concierge services. Tourism license with no physical office required in select zones Partner with local service providers for added revenue Target corporate travel, influencers, and medical tourism 9. Mobile Device Repair and Accessories With the rise in smartphone usage, mobile repair, accessories, and screen replacement services are in high demand. This requires a basic trade license, a workstation, and technical expertise. Low overheads with high margin per job Start solo and grow with a small team Ideal for Dubai’s fast-paced, tech-heavy lifestyle 10. Online Coaching or Educational Services Whether it’s English language coaching, tech bootcamps, or professional development, the UAE has a large base of students, job-seekers, and professionals eager to upskill. Starting an online coaching service is one of the smartest ideas with minimum investment to start business in Dubai. All you need is expertise, a license, and a laptop. Education-focused free zone licenses available Visa and business license included Flexible model: remote, hybrid, or live sessions How AB Capital Services Helps You Launch with Minimum Investment At AB Capital Services, we specialize in low cost business setup in Dubai and across other UAE free zones with price match guarantee. Our goal is to help you launch with confidence and compliance while keeping your startup costs lean. Our Packages Include: Trade license Lifetime UAE visa (optional) Co-working or flexi desk Company registration Bank account opening within 3 business days Ongoing support for renewals, tax, and compliance Dedicated Manager for minimum hassle. Top Notch customer support If you’re looking for a new company setup in Dubai or want to explore business setup costs in Dubai before committing, we offer free consultations and customized packages based on your budget and goals. Final Word: Your Business, Your Budget, Your Time Is Now You don’t need a massive budget or a huge office to start a business in Dubai. With the right guidance and license, you can launch a company with minimum investment to start business in Dubai and tap into one of the most dynamic markets in the world. Whether you want to offer services, sell products, or go digital, there is an option for every budget and background. Contact AB Capital Services today by visiting www.abcapital.ae or email us at info@abcapital.ae or call & whatsapp us at +971 58 561 9500 to explore the best low-investment business packages in the UAE and let’s turn your idea into a registered, revenue-generating reality.

If you’ve ever thought of launching a digital marketing agency in Dubai, 2025 might be your best shot yet. The demand for online marketing services in the UAE is booming, driven by digital transformation, e-commerce expansion, and a business ecosystem that thrives on social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising. Dubai has become a magnet for startups, influencers, brands, and global companies, all seeking to dominate their digital presence. That’s where your agency comes in. In this blog, AB Capital Services walks you through everything you need to know about opening a digital marketing agency in Dubai, from legal steps and licensing to bank accounts, office options, and costs. Why Start a Digital Marketing Agency in Dubai? Before jumping into the how, let’s look at the why. Dubai is one of the fastest-growing hubs for digital business. With over 99% internet penetration, a high mobile-first audience, and thousands of businesses looking to scale online, the UAE is a playground for digital marketing professionals. Key reasons to start your agency in Dubai: Explosive demand for SEO, social media, and content marketing High-paying clientele, including real estate, hospitality, fintech, and retail Zero personal income tax Access to international markets and clients Government support for tech and media companies Easy licensing options in both free zones and mainland Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity and License Type The first step is to decide on your business activity. For a digital marketing agency, the most relevant options include: Marketing Services Social Media Management Advertising Services Web Design and Development Content Production or Copywriting You can register your agency either in a UAE mainland zone or in a free zone. Free zones are often more cost-effective and offer 100% foreign ownership, while mainland allows direct dealings with UAE-based clients. Popular free zones for digital agencies: Dubai Media City Dubai Internet City Dubai Mainland (DED license) IFZA RAKEZ SHAMS AB Capital Services helps you choose the right structure based on your business model, budget, and target clients. Step 2: Decide on Free Zone or Mainland Free Zone Setup: 100% ownership No need for local sponsor Tax benefits Office options: flexi desk or virtual office Limited to working with clients outside UAE (unless through agents) Mainland Setup (DED License): Work directly with clients in the UAE More flexibility in marketing services Requires a UAE national as service agent (no equity share) Slightly higher setup costs Step 3: Register Your Company and Get Your License The company registration process includes: Choosing a unique company name Selecting the legal structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC) Submitting license application Paying relevant government and zone authority fees Receiving your business license This process can take 3 to 7 business days depending on your chosen zone. AB Capital Services handles all documentation and licensing on your behalf, so you can stay focused on your launch. Step 4: Apply for UAE Residence Visa As a business owner, you are eligible for a UAE residence visa, which allows you to live, work, and sponsor family members. Your visa process includes: Entry permit Medical fitness test Emirates ID Visa stamping You can also sponsor employees under your agency license as you grow. Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account A corporate bank account is essential to receive client payments, pay salaries, and run your business. However, opening a business bank account in the UAE can be tricky without proper support. AB Capital Services simplifies this process with our fast-track corporate bank account setup — most accounts are approved within 3 business days with leading banks in the UAE. Step 6: Set Up Your Office Depending on your license type, you will need a physical address or flexi desk. If you’re registering in a free zone, a co-working space or shared office may be included in your package. Need to scale fast? We help you upgrade office space, apply for more visas, or expand into the mainland when ready. What Is the Cost of Starting a Digital Marketing Agency in Dubai? The total cost varies based on your setup and location. Here’s an estimated breakdown: Setup Option Cost Range (AED) Free Zone License 10,000 – 15,000 Mainland License (DED) 15,000 – 20,000 Visa and Medical 3,000 – 5,000 Flexi Desk Office Included in most zones Bank Account Setup Included with AB Capital Services For a full setup with licensing, visa, and office, you can expect to pay between AED 12,000 to AED 20,000, depending on the zone and features. Why Work With AB Capital Services? We are a leading business setup consultancy in the UAE, trusted by entrepreneurs, startups, and global brands. Here’s how we make your agency launch seamless: Company registration in free zone or mainland Fast trade license issuance UAE visa processing for you and your team Fastest Corporate bank account opening in 3 business days Co-working space options and legal address Lifetime business support and renewals Whether you are starting solo or planning a full-scale digital agency with a team, we tailor your setup based on your goals and budget. Final Thoughts The demand for digital marketing in Dubai and across the UAE is at an all-time high. If you have the skills, vision, and drive to build an agency, now is the perfect time to take action. With AB Capital Services, your digital marketing agency setup is fast, affordable, and 100% compliant. From licensing to banking, we cover it all — so you can focus on growing your brand. Contact us today to launch your Digital Marketing Agency in Dubai the right way.

Dubai’s business landscape is one of the most dynamic in the world. Companies thrive here due to business-friendly regulations, tax benefits, and global connectivity. However, not all businesses last forever. If you find yourself needing to close your company, liquidation is the proper way to do it. When you want to Liquidate a Dubai Mainland company, it is a structured process involving government authorities, financial settlements, and legal documentation. If not done correctly, it can result in fines, legal complications, and unnecessary delays. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to liquidate a Dubai Mainland company in 2025, covering the necessary steps, costs, and legal obligations to ensure a smooth exit. What is a Dubai Mainland Company? A Dubai Mainland company is a business registered under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) (formerly known as the Department of Economic Development or DED). Unlike free zone companies, mainland companies can operate anywhere in the UAE and are not restricted to specific geographic zones. These companies are often chosen for their flexibility, ability to trade across the UAE, and access to government contracts. However, when a business no longer remains viable, liquidation becomes necessary. Why Would You Want to Liquidate a Dubai Mainland Company? Company liquidation isn’t always due to failure. Several factors can lead business owners to officially close their operations. 1. Business Closure Sometimes, entrepreneurs decide to move on from their business ventures. Whether it’s due to retirement, relocation, or a change in interests, proper liquidation ensures a clean exit with no legal liabilities. 2. Change in Business Strategy Many companies pivot to new industries or restructure their operations. If a business model no longer aligns with its long-term goals, liquidation might be the best solution before moving forward. 3. Financial Difficulties Businesses facing financial struggles, declining profits, or excessive debt may find it more practical to liquidate than to continue operations at a loss. Properly liquidating a Dubai Mainland company can protect business owners from unnecessary penalties and lawsuits. What are the Steps to Liquidate a Dubai Mainland Company? Liquidation follows a legal and financial process that ensures all obligations are met before a company officially closes. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to liquidate a Dubai Mainland company in 2025:   1. Notify the Relevant Authorities The first step is to inform the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) about your intention to liquidate the company. You’ll need to submit a board resolution (for LLCs) or a shareholder’s resolution (for sole proprietorships) confirming the decision. 2. Settle Any Outstanding Liabilities Before liquidation can proceed, all financial obligations must be settled: Clear outstanding debts with banks or creditors. Pay off any supplier invoices. Settle employee dues, including end-of-service benefits. Close corporate bank accounts to prevent future transactions. 3. Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) You’ll need to request a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from relevant authorities, such as: Dubai Customs (if applicable) Utilities providers (DEWA, Etisalat, du) The leasing company (if you rented an office space) Without this clearance, your liquidation process can be delayed or rejected. 4. Cancel All Licenses and Permits A company operating in Dubai Mainland holds various business licenses and permits that need to be officially canceled. These include: Trade license from DET VAT registration (if applicable) Work permits and visas for employees You must also notify the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to cancel any residence visas linked to the company. 5. Submit a Liquidation Application Once all outstanding matters are settled, you need to file a liquidation request with DET. You will also need to appoint a licensed liquidator to oversee the company’s closure. The liquidator will: Audit the company’s finances Ensure debts are settled Oversee the asset distribution process 6. Publish a Notice of Liquidation As part of the legal process, your liquidation notice must be published in two local newspapers for 45 days. This allows creditors to raise any claims before the final dissolution of the company. If no claims are raised within the 45-day period, the company can proceed with final liquidation steps. What are the Costs and Timeframe for Liquidating a Dubai Mainland Company?   1. Liquidation Costs The cost of liquidating a Dubai Mainland company depends on various factors, including: Business license cancellation fees Outstanding tax liabilities and fines Legal and liquidator fees On average, liquidation costs can range between AED 8,000 – AED 15,000, depending on the business size and liabilities. 2. Timeframe for Liquidation The entire liquidation process typically takes 2 to 6 months, depending on: The company’s financial and legal obligations. The efficiency of document submission. The response from DET and other government entities. Businesses with outstanding debts or pending legal issues may experience longer liquidation timelines. What Happens to the Assets of a Liquidated Dubai Mainland Company?   1. Distribution to Creditors If a company has outstanding liabilities, its assets will first be used to repay creditors. This may include: Selling company assets (furniture, equipment, intellectual property) Settling final supplier invoices 2. Distribution to Shareholders After settling all outstanding debts, any remaining assets or funds are distributed among the shareholders based on their ownership percentage. For sole proprietorships, the owner receives the remaining assets after all obligations are met. The Importance of Properly Liquidating a Dubai Mainland Company   Liquidation isn’t just about closing shops—it’s about ensuring that you exit the market legally and responsibly. If you fail to liquidate properly, you may face: Legal consequences from unsettled debts or unresolved government requirements. Future penalties when trying to set up a new business in the UAE. Unwanted liabilities tied to the company name. By following the correct liquidation steps, you can close your company smoothly, efficiently, and without financial or legal trouble. How AB Capital Services Can Make Things Easy?   Liquidating a Dubai Mainland company involves multiple steps, legal procedures, and financial clearances—all of which can be time-consuming and complex. That’s where AB Capital Services comes in. Why Choose AB Capital Services? FTA Approved –