What Are the Costs Involved in Setting Up a Professional Service Company in Dubai?

Understanding Dubai’s Business Landscape

Dubai has transformed into a global hub for innovation, trade, and entrepreneurship. With its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies, it offers unparalleled opportunities for professionals seeking to start their own ventures. Whether you’re a consultant, designer, lawyer, or marketing expert, forming a professional service company in Dubai provides access to a high-value market and a robust business ecosystem.

However, while the UAE promotes ease of doing business, setting up a company involves understanding several costs — from license fees and visas to office space and professional consultancy. Knowing these costs upfront helps you budget effectively and make informed decisions about your setup strategy.

Importance of Partnering with business setup consultants in dubai

The first and most essential step in your business journey is getting expert help from business setup consultants in dubai. These professionals specialize in guiding entrepreneurs through the complex setup process, ensuring all legal, financial, and compliance aspects are handled seamlessly.

Here’s how setup consultants simplify your company formation process:

Accurate Cost Estimation: Consultants break down the full cost structure of your business license, visas, and other permits.
Documentation & Legal Support: They prepare and submit all necessary paperwork to government authorities, ensuring compliance with UAE regulations.
Business Activity Selection: Consultants help you choose the right professional license category aligned with your services.
Free Zone vs Mainland Advice: They evaluate your business goals and recommend the best jurisdiction for your setup — whether that’s a free zone or the mainland.
Time & Cost Efficiency: Their experience and connections minimize errors, delays, and unnecessary expenses.

In short, working with consultants ensures that you not only understand the costs but also optimize them, preventing hidden fees or compliance setbacks.

Breakdown of Costs When Setting Up a Professional Company

While costs vary based on the nature of your business and jurisdiction, here’s a breakdown of the main expenses you can expect:

Expense CategoryEstimated Cost Range (AED)Details
Professional Trade License	7,000 – 15,000	Mandatory for all service-oriented businesses. Cost depends on license type and authority.
Registration & Approvals	3,000 – 8,000	Includes initial approval, name reservation, and government registration fees.
Office Space (Ejari or Flexi Desk)	10,000 – 25,000	Required for mainland companies; optional for free zones (depending on package).
Local Service Agent Fee (if applicable)	5,000 – 10,000	Required for some professional companies to appoint a UAE national representative.
Visa Application & Emirates ID	3,000 – 7,000 per visa	Includes residence visa, medical test, and ID processing.
Bank Account Setup	0 – 5,000	Some banks charge setup or minimum balance fees.
Miscellaneous Costs	1,000 – 3,000	Legal translation, document attestation, and courier services.

On average, setting up a professional services company in Dubai can cost between AED 25,000 and AED 50,000, depending on your setup type, office requirements, and visa needs.

Choosing the Right best business setup consultants in dubai

Selecting the best business setup consultants in dubai can save you significant time and money. The right consultancy doesn’t just complete the paperwork — it acts as a strategic partner in your business journey.

Here’s what to look for:

Transparency: They provide clear pricing with no hidden costs.
Government Liaison Expertise: Strong ties with the Department of Economic Development (DED) and other regulatory bodies ensure smoother approvals.
Tailored Packages: Top consultants offer customized solutions for freelancers, startups, and established firms.
Post-Setup Support: Assistance with visa renewals, compliance management, and tax registration.
Banking Assistance: Guidance in opening a suitable bank account for your professional company.

Partnering with expert consultants ensures that your setup journey is not only cost-effective but also fully compliant with Dubai’s evolving business regulations.

Mainland vs Free Zone Setup: Cost Comparison

AspectMainland CompanyFree Zone Company
License Fees	Moderate to High	Often lower, depending on the zone
Office Space Requirement	Mandatory (Ejari needed)	Optional (flexi-desk available)
Ownership	100% foreign ownership allowed for most professional licenses	100% foreign ownership
Government Approvals	Required for certain activities	Usually managed by free zone authority
Visa Quota	Depends on office size	Determined by free zone package
Cost Efficiency	Higher flexibility for local operations	More cost-effective for remote businesses

Each option offers distinct advantages. Free zones are ideal for cost-conscious entrepreneurs looking for quick setup and global operations, while mainland setups provide access to the UAE market without restrictions.

Hidden Costs Entrepreneurs Often Overlook

While calculating setup costs, entrepreneurs frequently miss a few recurring expenses:

License Renewal Fees (Annual): Must be paid yearly to keep operations legal.
Accounting & VAT Filing: Required under UAE tax law.
Insurance Costs: Health and liability insurance may be mandatory for staff.
Corporate Tax Preparation: From June 2023, corporate tax applies to profits exceeding AED 375,000.

A professional consultant helps identify these hidden costs, ensuring your business stays financially stable from the start.

Final Words

Setting up a professional service company in Dubai is an investment in your entrepreneurial future. By understanding the full cost breakdown and partnering with business setup consultants in dubai and the best business setup consultants in dubai, you ensure a smooth, compliant, and cost-efficient business launch. Dubai’s professional ecosystem offers unmatched opportunities for growth — but only when backed by the right guidance and financial planning.

What Are the Costs Involved in Setting Up a Professional Service Company in Dubai?

Explore the total cost of forming a professional company in Dubai. Discover how expert setup consultants help you save money and stay compliant.