To start a business in Dubai, you have to follow these steps. 

• First, choose an industry and the business activity you will engage in.
• Next, you must identify the legal structure of your business. Take help from a consultant or lawyer in this step.
• Choose a location, such as the Mainland or a Free Zone, whatever suits your business.
• Apply for a legal trade name.
• Finalise the paperwork.
• Apply for a licence and get initial approvals. 
• Register your business and open a bank account.

There are plenty of benefits to starting a company in Dubai, but the key benefit is a Strategic location as Dubai is a trade city that connects different continents, which simplifies the import and export of goods. Therefore, the high-class infrastructure that comes with low corporate tax is a major advantage for investors who want to set up a company in Dubai. Additionally, 100% foreign company ownership is another boost for foreign entrepreneurs because of Dubai’s friendly business environment.

The timeframe of opening a company in Dubai is 4 to 5 working days but it all depends on different factors such as your industry and requirements of each licensing authority. Some business activities are quicker than the others but in general, it takes only a few days to setting up a new company in Dubai.

Yes, you can own 100% of your business in Dubai. In the past, only Free Zones have allowed 100% foreign ownership of businesses in Dubai. However, with a recent amendment, now foreigners can 100% own an LLC business in Dubai Mainland, too. For more information on this topic, you can visit our complete guide.

These are the most profitable businesses to start in Dubai – 

1. E-commerce stores 
2. Digital payments 
3. IT solutions 
4. Real estate development 
5. Tourism services.