Cost of Business Setup in Dubai 2024: A Realistic Breakdown

<h2>Overview of Business Setup Costs in Dubai</h2><p>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.</p><h2>Free Zone Company Costs</h2><p><strong>Budget range (1-2 visas, virtual office):</strong> AED 12,000 – AED 25,000<br><strong>Mid-range (2-3 visas, flexi desk):</strong> AED 20,000 – AED 40,000<br><strong>Premium (5+ visas, dedicated office):</strong> AED 40,000 – AED 100,000+</p><h2>Mainland Company Costs</h2><p><strong>DED license:</strong> AED 10,000 – AED 20,000<br><strong>Office lease (minimum required):</strong> AED 15,000 – AED 50,000/year<br><strong>Ejari registration:</strong> AED 220<br><strong>Total first year:</strong> AED 25,000 – AED 80,000+</p><h2>Ongoing Annual Costs</h2><ul><li>License renewal: 80-90% of initial license fee</li><li>Visa renewals: AED 2,500-4,000 per visa</li><li>Accounting/audit: AED 5,000-20,000/year</li><li>Office/flexi desk renewal: varies</li></ul>