Cost of Business Setup in Dubai 2024: A Realistic Breakdown

Overview of Business Setup Costs in Dubai

The cost of setting up a business in Dubai varies significantly depending on your chosen structure (free zone vs mainland), the number of visas you need, your office requirements, and your specific business activities.

Free Zone Company Costs

Budget range (1-2 visas, virtual office): AED 12,000 – AED 25,000
Mid-range (2-3 visas, flexi desk): AED 20,000 – AED 40,000
Premium (5+ visas, dedicated office): AED 40,000 – AED 100,000+

Mainland Company Costs

DED license: AED 10,000 – AED 20,000
Office lease (minimum required): AED 15,000 – AED 50,000/year
Ejari registration: AED 220
Total first year: AED 25,000 – AED 80,000+

Ongoing Annual Costs

• License renewal: 80-90% of initial license fee
• Visa renewals: AED 2,500-4,000 per visa
• Accounting/audit: AED 5,000-20,000/year
• Office/flexi desk renewal: varies