Dubai is one of the world’s most famous business hubs. with thousands of organisations setting up here, from every corner of the world. From health and hospitality to travel and technology, many industries thrive in this open and encouraging environment.
And this busy and burgeoning business environment drives the growth of another industry — facility management. Offices, hotels, gyms, restaurants, apartment buildings and more need and use the services of facilities management companies. And as Dubai continues to grow, demand for such services will only increase with it.
For entrepreneurs looking to stake a claim in this space, the incorporation and licensing process is fast and straightforward – providing you work with an expert, of course. Worldwide Formations can manage the entire process for you. And to help you get started, here’s a simple guide to setting up a facility management company in Dubai
Steps to start a facility management company in Dubai
The first thing to do if you want to start a facility management company in Dubai is decide where you wish to set up.
This can be in a free zone or in the UAE mainland. When trading in the mainland, you are free to set up anywhere and can take on government work. When you do business from a free zone, you will benefit from a 100% customs tax exemption, zero currency restrictions and the ability to repatriate all capital and profits to your home country.
Having made this decision, the next step is to choose your company name. This step is a little more particular here in Dubai than in other parts of the world. That’s because as well as the need for a name that’s catchy and captures the essence of your business, you’ll also need to stick to the UAE’s clearly defined naming conventions.
In short, UAE company names must not contain any blasphemous or offensive language, any references to well-known institutions or any abbreviations of your name – though your full name is acceptable.
Your name should also have a legal entity attached to it such as FZE or LLC. It must also relate to your business activity, not resemble the name of any other company and be available to register. When you work with Worldwide Formations, we can register your trade name on your behalf.
With this early administration out of the way, you can now move on to the most important step, applying for your facility management license.
Applying for a facility management license in Dubai
The process of applying for your facility management license is different depending on where you choose to set up.
If you’re setting up in the mainland, you can make your license application directly to the Department of Economic Development (DED). If you’ve chosen a mainland setup, you should apply directly to the managing authority of your chosen free zone.
In both cases, Worldwide Formations can manage this process for you, and liaise with authorities and government departments on your behalf.
Documents required to start a facility management company in Dubai, UAE
When starting a facility management company in Dubai, you will need to submit several documents along with your application form. This may include:
- A copy of your passport
- Several passport photos
- Proof of relevant experience or qualifications
- A No Objection Certificate from your current employer (if applicable)
Applying for your visa
If you intend to live and work in Dubai, UAE, you will need a residency visa. We can assist with this process too.
There are four stages involved, including a medical fitness test and biometric capturing. In all, it usually takes less than a week.
As the holder of a UAE trade license, you can also sponsor others such as your children, a spouse or domestic staff for their visas too, providing you meet the eligibility criteria.
While applying for a visa in the UAE is not overly complicated, it’s important to note that even the tiniest error in your application can lead to rejection, which is likely to delay your company formation schedule. So, once again, it’s a good idea to work with our expert team who can guide you through the process.
What is the facility management license cost?
There are a few factors at play that will determine the facility management license cost. These include the size of your business, whether you set up in the mainland or a free zone, and the type of activities you undertake.
In most cases, the most cost-effective route is to set up in a free zone. In this instance, for a trade license package, inclusive of the cost of at least one visa, you can expect to pay in the region of AED 15,000 to 25,000.
Start your facility management business in the UAE with Worldwide Formations
When starting a UAE facilities management business, getting the right guidance beforehand is key. That’s why it’s always advisable to undertake the steps with the assistance of a registered company formations agent to eliminate any potential hassles that might arise.
With more than 15 years of experience in company incorporation, and trusted by over 10,000 clients around the world, Worldwide Formations can help you get your business up and running within a matter of weeks.
We are authorised to incorporate companies in all major free zone jurisdictions, and across the UAE mainland. And we can manage the entire company formation process on your behalf and correspond with all relevant authorities for you. All you need to do is wait for the green light to start doing business.
But our service doesn’t end there. We also offer a range of value-added services to facilitate all primary transitions and establishment processes and provide trustworthy bank account opening assistance, VAT registration, re-instatement, and renewal services.
So, if you’re running a business in the UAE, or planning to start one, it always pays to talk to Worldwide Formations.
