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Dubai South Business HubSimplifies Small Business License Requirements in Dubai

7 minutes read
DATE: July 24, 2025

Dubai continues to attract entrepreneurs from around the world, and small business owners are at the centre of this growth. The appeal stems from operational simplicity, combined with 100% foreign ownership and a digital-first licensing framework. Setting up a small business in Dubai can be easily accomplished, whether you are starting a consulting firm or building an e-commerce site. Dubai South Business Hub also simplifies Dubai SME company registration, offering fast, flexible pathways to launch.

First, you need to choose what kind of business you want to start, the legal requirements, and choose a name for your business. Then, you need to apply for a license. Getting a license at Dubai South Business Hub is easy and involves just four steps. Here, solutions go beyond the hub with services such as Emirates ID and visa assistance, and bank account setup assistance, among other business support services.

Small businesses play a vital role in most economies. For example, local rules and small business structures around the world help determine how enterprises are owned, and how they are regulated. This blog outlines the whole process and all required actions.

 

Have a business idea?

7 minutes read
DATE: July 24, 2025

Top 6 Advantages in Dubai for Small Business Owners

Dubai South Business Hub is designed to nurture, incubate, and scale entrepreneurial ideas in Dubai and beyond. Here are six advantages directly supported by our platform:

  • Strategic location
    Conveniently located within Dubai South, minutes from the Al Maktoum International Airport.
  • Flexible workspaces
    Whether you are a solo founder or leading a growing team, select from adaptable workspaces that evolve with your needs.
  • Fast and efficient business setup
    A four-step digital process is streamlined to value your time, enabling you to launch swiftly and efficiently.
  • Visa allocation
    Attract and retain the talent you need, with up to 6 visa slots set aside for your firm. A key benefit with your Dubai entrepreneur visa for small business, ideal for solo founders and startups.
  • 100% foreign ownership
    Entrepreneurs enjoy complete ownership of their business, with no requirement for a local sponsor.
  • Full-Spectrum Ecosystem
    We provide founders with the tools, information, and connections they need to think faster, act faster, and grow smarter.

Understanding Costs for a Small Business Setup in Dubai

To understand the small business setup cost in Dubai, you need to know what is included. Dubai South Business Hub offers clear pricing starting from AED 12,500 with no hidden fees. This cost includes access to a flexi desk for a limited number of hours each month, which includes utilities and internet access.

In addition to this, ongoing monthly expenses may apply depending on your operational choices. These typically include:

  • Additional workspace rent (for full-time shared desk or private office)
  • Extended utilities and internet usage (beyond the included hours)
  • Support services such as PRO, accounting, or VAT
  • Banking and payment gateway charges

 

Use our cost calculator to determine the total cost of setting up a small business, based on your activity type and specific business needs.

Step-by-Step Process for Setting Up a Small Business in Dubai

Looking for a complete, step-by-step business setup in Dubai? In just four steps, Dubai South Business Hub makes it possible:

  • Step 1: Build the right foundation
    Start with expert advice tailored to your chosen business activity. Dubai South Business Hub offers a wide range of options, including consultancy, trading, and e-commerce. As one of the most supportive small business setup consultants in Dubai, Dubai South Business Hub offers expert guidance tailored to your business.
  • Step 2: Apply and pay online
    Complete your application and make a payment through the secure, digital portal. The process is built for speed and ease.
  • Step 3: ID verification
    Quickly complete your identity verification online using a straightforward, guided process.
  • Step 4: Receive your license
    Get your official business license and formation documents within just 2 hours—ready to begin operations.

Additional services such as visa allocation, Emirates ID assistance, and bank account setup assistance are available once your license is issued.

Explore all available services and begin your application at Dubai South Business Hub.

Understanding the Licensing Structure for Small Businesses in Dubai

Type of Licenses Based on Business Activity

The Dubai South Business Hub supports different kinds of businesses, ensuring your license is in line with what you do, whether you run a service-based consulting or an e-commerce business.

Documentation and Compliance Requirements

Most Dubai small business license requirements include ID credentials, a chosen activity, and a rental agreement. Some industries may need further permissions.

Cheapest Way to Set Up a Business in Dubai

Looking for the cheapest way to set up a business in Dubai? Dubai South Business Hub is a good choice because of the following:

  • The cost of setting up a business starts from AED 12,500
  • Access to flexible workspaces
  • No need for paid-up capital
  • Digital setup completed within 2 hours
  • Value-added services

With its affordability, speed, and full-spectrum ecosystem, Dubai South Business Hub is quickly becoming one of the UAE’s most sought-after destinations for small businesses, solopreneurs, and global founders ready to progress.

Conclusion

Dubai South Business Hub makes small business setup fast and practical. With flexible licensing, transparent costs, and end-to-end support, it provides everything you need to start strong and operate with complete confidence. This is where your business moves from idea to execution, efficiently and without friction.

FAQs

How can I start a small business in Dubai?
Choose your activity, reserve your company name, apply for a license, and complete your visa and Emirates ID application steps.
Yes. Dubai offers a strategic location, freedom of full foreign ownership, and fast business setup services.
Yes. Dubai South Business Hub allows full foreign ownership.
Establishing a business starts from AED 12,500. Mainland costs are generally higher.
Yes. Shared desk and flexi-space options are available.

Depends on your activity: commercial, professional, or industrial. A Dubai DED license for small business applies to mainland setups, while licenses provided by business setup providers like Dubai South Business Hub offer more flexibility and ownership for many entrepreneurs.

Passport, visa copy, Emirates ID (if available), and tenancy contract.
No. Business setup service providers like Dubai South Business Hub allow full foreign ownership.

No, you don’t need to apply for a new license. Dubai South Business Hub makes it easy to upgrade from a flexi desk to a dedicated office or private space later in the year. Your existing license continues to be valid while your workspace agreement is amended. This feature lets you scale your business without changing your legal setup.

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