Achieve Your Business Goals with dxbstartup
Transform Your Business with dxbstartup Consulting
🗓️ Step-by-Step Guide to Dubai Business Setup & Visa Process
✅ Step 1: Business Name Reservation & Initial Approval
Timeframe: 1–2 working days
Submit 2–3 preferred trade names and receive approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) for your chosen business activity.
✅ Step 2: Drafting & Signing MOA / LSA Agreement
Timeframe: 1 day
Draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Local Service Agent Agreement based on your business structure. This is signed at a notary or digitally (via e-sign if applicable).
✅ Step 3: Office Space / Ejari Contract
Timeframe: 1–2 working days
Lease an office or flexi-desk space and obtain your Ejari (tenancy contract), required for license issuance.
✅ Step 4: Trade License Issuance
Timeframe: 1–2 working days
Submit all documents and pay DED fees. You’ll receive your Dubai Trade License, the official permission to operate your business.
✅ Step 5: Apply for Establishment Card (Immigration Card)
Timeframe: 2–3 working days
Apply to GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs) to get your Establishment Card, required for any visa processing.
✅ Step 6: Entry Permit for Investor/Partner Visa
Timeframe: 2–3 working days
Once the Establishment Card is ready, apply for your Entry Permit (valid for 60 days). This allows you to proceed with residency formalities.
✅ Step 7: Change of Status (if inside UAE)
Timeframe: 1–2 working days
If you are already inside the UAE, apply for Change of Status to activate your entry permit without exiting the country.
✅ Step 8: Medical Fitness Test
Timeframe: 1 working day (results within 24–48 hrs)
Visit an approved government health center for your medical exam (blood test & chest X-ray).
✅ Step 9: Emirates ID Biometric
Timeframe: 1 working day
Submit biometric data (fingerprints, photo) at an ICP center. Emirates ID application is submitted alongside.
✅ Step 10: Residency Visa Stamping in Passport
Timeframe: 3–5 working days
Your passport is submitted to GDRFA for residency stamping. Once approved, you officially become a UAE resident.
✅ Step 11: Emirates ID Delivery
Timeframe: 5–7 working days after visa stamping
Receive your Emirates ID via courier or collect from the designated post office.
🕒 Total Estimated Timeline: 15–20 Working Days
This timeline can vary based on public holidays, document readiness, or additional approvals required.
📌 Optional: Visa Quota Allocation (for hiring employees)
Timeframe: 3–5 working days
Apply through MOHRE to get quota approval for issuing employee visas. Quota depends on office space and company activity.
💬 Need End-to-End Support?
We manage every step for you — from business license to visa, medical, and ID — with a single point of contact and zero stress.
📞 Contact Us:
Phone: +971-558338745
Email: letsgo@dxbstartup.com
WhatsApp: +971-558338745
Website: www.dxbstartup.com