Looking to start a business in Dubai? GoBusiness makes it simple. Our all-inclusive SME business setup package is available for just AED 16,500 per year and includes everything you need to launch and manage your business—a valid business licence, UAE residence visa, and bank account setup assistance, all with no hidden fees.
Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or establishing a small-to-medium enterprise, this package equips you with the tools and support to operate confidently and compliantly in the UAE.
Enjoy a seamless setup process with expert guidance, clear pricing, and a one-stop solution designed to help you live and work in the UAE with complete peace of mind.
Bespoke SME business setup solutions from industry experts & strategists.
Our SME business package includes access to vibrant shared workstations. This could be a great platform for you to meet other business owners and build your network with a community of like-minded people, paving the way for your business to spread its wings. We have different options to choose from – you can come for a day, a week, or a month. Choose from a simple desk, your own desk, or a private office. We also have meeting rooms, spaces for events, and even a place to record videos or podcasts. With GoBusiness, you get your small business setup in Dubai quickly, as per your budget.
Have questions? We’ve got answers.
The SME business set-up in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) refers to the process of registering and licensing enterprises classified under micro to medium categories, which are essential contributors to the country’s economic growth. This involves submitting applications to the appropriate government authorities, obtaining necessary approvals and securing a trade licence that aligns with the planned business activities. The UAE offers options for business incorporation either on the mainland or within free zones, each providing specific benefits and regulatory conditions suited to diverse business needs.
The UAE offers a highly favourable environment for SME business owners, combining economic stability, strategic location and a progressive regulatory framework. The country’s business-friendly policies, ease of company registration and access to diverse markets make it an attractive destination for SME business set-up in Dubai and enterprises aiming to establish or expand their operations.
Dubai, in particular, has emerged as a global hub for innovative enterprises and SMEs, supported by a diverse ecosystem designed to nurture entrepreneurs and growing businesses. With more than 20 specialised free zones covering a broad range of industries, most mainland and free-zone companies benefit from 100% foreign ownership, enhancing control and flexibility for those seeking business set-up for SME business in Dubai. A tailored business package further simplifies the process for new entrants.
Any individual aged 18 years or above who meets the regulatory criteria prescribed by UAE authorities can apply for SME business set-up. This includes both residents and international applicants interested in conducting permissible business activities within the legal framework. Depending on the sector, certain business types may require professional qualifications or specific licences.
Yes, foreign nationals can establish an SME in the UAE. The regulatory framework facilitates international business owners by offering options such as full ownership within free zones and other investor-friendly schemes. This flexibility makes business set-up for SME business in Dubai accessible and efficient, fostering a diverse and dynamic business environment.
The SME business set-up in the UAE permits a wide range of business activities, including consultancy, trading, IT services, marketing, education, construction and manufacturing among others. Each jurisdiction maintains a list of authorised activities and applicants must select the relevant ones for their business licence.
Businesses in the UAE are generally grouped into three main sectors: trade, industrial and service. Within each sector, enterprises are further categorised into micro, SME and medium-sized businesses, based on specific thresholds of employee numbers and annual revenues, which is essential when considering a SME business set-up in Dubai.
Micro-businesses are those with fewer than 5 employees or annual revenues below AED 3 million in the trade sector. In the industrial sector, micro-manufacturing enterprises typically have fewer than 9 employees or annual revenues under AED 3 million. In the service sector, micro-service companies are defined by having fewer than 5 employees or annual revenues less than AED 2 million—key considerations for business set-up for SME business in Dubai.
SME business set-up in the UAE applies to enterprises that exceed micro-business criteria but remain within certain limits. For trade-related businesses, SME business set-up in Dubai generally includes companies with up to 50 employees or annual revenues less than AED 50 million. In the industrial sector, enterprises with fewer than 100 employees or revenues under AED 50 million are considered within the SME category. Service enterprises classified as SMEs include those with fewer than 50 employees or annual revenues less than AED 20 million.
Business set-up for SME business in Dubai also includes medium-sized businesses, representing the next level, with companies typically having up to 200 employees and annual revenues that can reach up to AED 250 million, depending on the sector. For instance, medium industrial companies have fewer than 250 employees or revenues up to AED 250 million, while medium service companies have fewer than 200 employees or annual revenues up to AED 200 million.
While exact requirements for SME business set-up in the UAE may vary depending on the emirate and business activity, the typical documentation includes the following:
An SME business package offers a simplified and structured route to SME business set-up in Dubai. It saves time, ensures regulatory compliance and reduces administrative burden. GoBusiness provides tailored SME business solutions backed by a team of experts. The package includes not only business set-up essentials but also access to co-working workspaces, networking opportunities and ongoing support for business continuity.
GoBusiness’ SME Package includes everything you need to legally operate your business in Dubai:
All elements are bundled into a transparent, all-inclusive package with no hidden fees.
The GoBusiness SME business set-up package is available at AED 16,500 per year. This comprehensive solution for SME business set-up in Dubai includes all core components needed to launch and manage your enterprise, such as your business licence, visa support, and workspace access.
Yes, under the SME business set-up, you can apply for employee visas. Once your business set-up is fully licensed and established, you may sponsor employees as per your business activity and the type of licence issued. The number of visas permitted depends on the size of your office space and the business model.
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