Business Setup Services in Dubai: What’s Included and What’s Not

Dubai is a leading destination for entrepreneurs and investors. The city offers strong infrastructure, tax benefits, and an easy route to accessing international markets. But starting a business in Dubai requires clear planning, legal steps, and compliance with local regulations.

Thats why many investors turn to Business Setup Consultants in Dubai to help with the process. But not all services cover everything. Knowing exactly whats included and whats not in Business Setup Services in Dubai helps you make the right choice and avoid unnecessary costs or confusion.

In this blog, well break down the typical services offered and explain what you may need to arrange separately.

What Are Business Setup Services?

Business Setup Services in Dubai are professional services that assist entrepreneurs with registering, launching, and managing their businesses. These services ensure your company complies with the regulations of the Dubai government and relevant free zone authorities.

The scope of services can vary depending on the consultant or agency, so understanding the exact offering is crucial before signing any contract.

Whats Typically Included in Business Setup Services in Dubai?

Lets look at the key services you can generally expect when working with reputable Business Setup Consultants in Dubai.

1. Initial Consultation and Business Planning

Most consultants begin by:

• Understanding your business idea.

• Advising on the best business structure (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.).

• Recommending the right jurisdiction (mainland, free zone, or offshore).

• Outlining costs, timelines, and legal requirements.

This phase is essential to avoid missteps later in the setup process.

2. Trade Name Reservation

Consultants usually handle:

• Suggesting names based on availability.

• Ensuring names meet Dubais naming laws.

• Submitting the reservation request to the authorities.

A reserved trade name is required before license processing begins.

3. Obtaining Initial Approvals

A key part of Business Setup Services in Dubai is obtaining initial NOC (No Objection Certificate) approvals from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or the chosen free zone authority. These approvals confirm there are no objections to your business activity.

4. License Application

This includes:

• Submitting the complete license application.

• Selecting the correct business activities.

• Coordinating with regulatory authorities.

Consultants help ensure the business license matches your planned operations to avoid legal complications later.

5. Drafting and Attestation of Legal Documents

Consultants handle the preparation and legal attestation of:

• Memorandum of Association (MoA) or Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement.

• Shareholder resolutions.

• Board meeting minutes if needed.

Legal documents must be drafted accurately to meet the specific legal structure and license requirements.

6. Office Space Assistance and Ejari

For mainland companies, having a physical office is mandatory. Business setup providers typically assist with:

• Finding affordable office space.

• Coordinating Ejari registration (official tenancy registration).

• Arranging shared or flexi-desk options for free zones.

7. Coordination with External Authorities

Depending on your activity, consultants also obtain approvals from:

• Dubai Municipality

• Dubai Health Authority (DHA)

• Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA)

• Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA)

• Dubai Customs, and others

This step is often overlooked when going solo, resulting in delays.

8. Visa Processing

Most Business Setup Consultants in Dubai include visa-related services such as:

• Owner/investor visa application.

• Employee visa quotas and applications.

• Medical fitness test scheduling.

• Emirates ID processing.

Visa services are essential for companies planning to hire staff or for investors wanting residency.

9. Bank Account Opening Support

Though the decision to open a bank account is up to the bank, consultants assist by:

• Recommending suitable banks.

• Preparing required documentation.

• Booking appointments with the banks relationship manager.

While approval depends on bank compliance, the support saves time.

10. Ongoing Business Support

Reputable consultants offer continuous support such as:

• License renewals.

• Modification of business activities.

• Office relocation services.

• PRO services (liaison with government departments).

Whats Usually Not Included in Business Setup Packages?

While the services listed above are standard in most packages, there are some areas that may not be included and could come with additional charges or require external support.

1. Accounting and Bookkeeping

Most Business Setup Services in Dubai do not include:

• Monthly bookkeeping

• VAT registration and filing

• Annual financial audits

These are usually handled by separate accounting firms. Some consultants may offer it as an add-on package.

2. Legal Advisory or Litigation Support

Business setup consultants help with documentation, but they do not offer:

• Legal advice for business disputes.

• Court representation or arbitration support.

For that, youll need a licensed law firm.

3. Marketing and Branding Services

Creating a brand identity, website, or marketing strategy is outside the scope of typical setup services. Youll need to engage marketing specialists for:

• Logo and visual design

• Website development

• Digital marketing campaigns

4. Recruitment Services

Although visa processing is included, sourcing, interviewing, and hiring staff is not part of standard business setup packages. HR consultants or recruitment firms are better suited for this task.

5. Product Registration or Certifications

If your business deals with cosmetics, health products, or food, product registration is required. This is not always included and might involve:

• Dubai Municipality product approvals

• ESMA certifications (for electrical goods)

Check with your consultant if they offer this service or work with a partner.

6. Bank Account Approval

Consultants help you prepare, but the final decision lies with the bank. Business setup firms cannot guarantee approval or influence internal bank compliance checks.

Summary: Whats In vs Whats Out

Understand the Scope Before You Start

Setting up a company in Dubai is easier when you have expert support, but knowing whats includedand whats notwill help you budget correctly and avoid surprises. Reputable Business Setup Consultants in Dubai offer end-to-end support for registration, licensing, visas, and compliance. However, services such as accounting, legal advice, marketing, and recruitment usually fall outside their core offerings.

Before you sign up with any consultant, ask for a clear breakdown of the services and fees. This will help you choose the right Business Setup Services in Dubai that align with your goals and save you time, money, and effort.