Freelancing is more popular than ever before. Increasing numbers of entrepreneurs are throwing off the traditional shackles of the office and going it alone around the world.

It is estimated that one in three workers in the US is freelance, while the UK has seen freelancer numbers increase by around a third in recent years. With the events of the past 12 months forcing many of us to get used to working from home, we can expect those figures to increase further in the years ahead.

It’s easy to see why so many are turning to the freedom of freelancing. When you become your own boss, you can set your own schedule, take on the tasks you want and have total control over your career. It has the potential to be a lucrative career path too. A recent survey found that, across almost every industry, freelancers earn more than their traditionally employed counterparts.

Here in the UAE, freelancer numbers are also on the up, with marketplaces such as Nabbesh ever increasing in popularity. This is undoubtedly due to the UAE’s welcoming business environment and a straightforward license and visa application process.

Here’s a quick guide to get started as a freelancer in Dubai, UAE.

How to get a freelance visa in Dubai 2021

Before obtaining your freelance visa in Dubai, you’ll need to secure a trade license, also known as a freelancer permit.

To make your application, you will need to provide some documentation such as your passport and a few examples of your work, along with your completed application form. You can apply to set up in the mainland via the Department of Economic Development (DED) or in a Dubai free zone.

Besides fast and affordable incorporation, free zone companies benefit from the ability to repatriate capital and profits and zero currency restrictions. This approach is usually the most cost-effective when setting up as a freelancer in the UAE.

While possible in Dubai, freelancing is a little different from many other places in the world. For one, all freelancers must be licensed regardless of the activities they intend to carry out. Those activities must fall into a permitted category, and they must be stated on your business licence.

Freelancers are permitted to work in the following fields:

Media – including actors, journalists, writers, composers, translators, web designers and more.

Technology – including data science, analytics, and web development.

Education – including advisors, tutors, trainers, and researchers.

Freelance permits are much more affordable than full trade licenses, allowing you to get started with minimal overheads. You also have the option to convert your permit to a full license at a later date.

To ensure that your license activities align with your intended business practices, it’s best to work with a company formation specialist at this stage.

With your freelance permit secured, you can then make your visa application.

Making your freelance visa application

You can apply for your freelance visa in Dubai online, via your chosen free zone or with the assistance of a UAE company formation expert.

In every case, you will need to provide some or all of the following documentation: 

• Resume
• Colour photograph
• Passport copy
• Bank reference letter

If you are applying for a license to work in the education sector, you will also have to submit proof of your qualifications. Any foreign certificates will need to be certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the UAE consulate in the country of origin.

If you are applying to work in the media, you may be required to provide a portfolio or brief samples of your work.

The visa process comprises four steps:

Entry permit

This allows you into the UAE.

Status change

This activates your permit and allows you to work in the UAE.

Medical test

This involves a chest x-ray, blood test, and biometric capturing.

Visa stamping

Your residency visa is stamped in your passport by Immigration.

Applications usually take between 14 and 21 business days.

As a UAE residency visa holder, you can also sponsor dependants for their visas too. This could be your spouse, a child or parent, or domestic staff such as a housekeeper or driver.

What is the cost of a freelance visa in Dubai?

Freelance visa costs in Dubai can vary depending on whether you make a standalone application or go via a free zone. The number of visas you require will also increase costs, though some free zones offer discounts on multiple applications.

If you’re looking for the cheapest freelance visa in Dubai, it’s best to shop around. Making your application with a company formation expert such as Charles Ntumwa Services (WWF) can be an excellent way to keep costs low.

Our 100% legal freelance permit and residency visa costs just AED 17,500 if obtained via a one-off payment. Alternatively, you can pay across three years – just AED 9,995 in year one and two more payments of AED 4,985 in year two and year three.

Get your freelance visa with Charles Ntumwa Services

When setting up as a freelancer in the UAE, getting the right guidance beforehand is key. That’s why it’s always advisable to undertake the above 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, Charles Ntumwa Services can help you get your business up and running within a matter of weeks. We’ll manage the entire 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.

The post Freelance Visa Dubai, UAE 2025: Affordable and Legal appeared first on WWF.

For many people, their first steps into business are small – perhaps by working in their own front room and selling exclusively through the internet. Today, there are many enterprises being started by people online, such as tutoring, selling items they’ve crafted, or to freelance writing – and a decent living can be made from them.

If you live in Dubai and want to start up such a business, you must gain an e-trader licence first. But what is it and how do you apply for one? Our guide will show you how, covering the following topics:

• What is a Dubai e-trader licence?
• What is required for an e-trader licence?
• Dubai e-trader licence for expats
• Benefits of an e-trader licence
• Who applies for the e-trader licence?
• How to apply for the Dubai e-trader licence
• Why work with Charles Ntumwa Services?

What is a Dubai e-trader licence?

All businesses in Dubai require a licence to trade, and e-traders are no different. The licence enables e-traders – who usually work at home – to run their business online in Dubai.

The e-trader licence has been a requirement since 2017 when it was introduced by the Department of Economic Development. It was brought in to regulate online businesses in Dubai, and to give confidence to customers that e-traders are legitimate and can be trusted.

It has particular benefits for sole traders that don’t require premises from which to run their operation. People who are resident in Dubai and the wider UAE and GCC citizens can apply for the licence.

What is required for an e-trader licence?

As with all licences in Dubai, to acquire an e-trader licence there are various conditions that must be satisfied. These include being at least 21 years of age, having registered online with the Department of Economic Development, and having an Emirates ID – this is to certify that they are a resident in Dubai or a GCC citizen. GCC citizens can also use a copy of their passport.

Dubai e-trader licence for expats

As only those who live in Dubai or are GCC citizens can hold an e-trader licence, expats must have gained their Dubai residence visa before making an application for it.

Applying for a residence visa is usually a process completed by an employer or owning a business. It can also be applied for by being sponsored by a parent or spouse.

However, as soon as a visa has been granted, you can apply for an e-trader licence.

Benefits of an e-trader licence

There are numerous benefits of holding an e-trader licence. Firstly, it means your trading name can be registered and therefore protected – in Dubai, two businesses are not allowed the same name, they must be unique.

The licence also means traders can upload, sample and promote what they are selling.

It also means that the business can trade online and doesn’t require premises – which is a relief for those setting up a business with limited capital. Some enterprises are suited to an online platform as they can be run from a home office.

Having the licence also means it is easier to register for and join in with training sessions and other activities run by the Department for Economic Development. These can be useful for networking with other businesspeople and gaining skills that could be important in the future.

For customers, it also makes things more convenient as it makes it easier to search for and find your business whether through social media or a search engine.

Having the licence also gives customers reassurance that, if they buy a product or service from you, they are buying from a legitimate business and not a fraudster who may be running a scam or selling fake goods. Building up trust with customers is vital for building ongoing trading relationships, and the licence is a good first step on that road.

Who applies for the e-trader licence

There are entrepreneurs in various sectors for whom the e-trader licence is particularly pertinent. For instance, those who work out of their own homes as virtual assistants or perhaps selling craftwork via their websites.

Similarly, freelancers in fields such as journalism and/or content creation, marketing and public relations or website design, can benefit from the e-trader licence as it enables them to use online marketplaces as well as social media to connect with people who may want to commission them for specific tasks or ongoing work.

As mentioned, startup businesses that are formed with little initial investment from the founder and are operating virtually – perhaps with a view to setting up physical premises at some point in the future, when a sales concept has been proven – can also benefit from the e-trader licence.

In a similar vein, entrepreneurs who sell more online than physically may prefer to take an e-trader licence – anyone from recruitment consultants to e-retailers.

It is important to note than an e-trader licence just covers the entrepreneur who makes the application and nobody else.

How to apply for an e-trader licence

There is a set process that people who want to gain a Dubai e-trader licence have to go through. The licence can be applied for at www.dedtrader.ae. New users of the site will have to undertake an initial registration process, which takes a few minutes. Those with existing accounts can simply log in. You can log in here with a UAE pass, which means presenting your fingerprint.

Following this, you need to input your Emirates ID number, along with an email address or mobile telephone number.

The next step is to pay the AED 1,070 fee for the e-trader licence, which must be settled within 24 hours of the Department of Economic Development sending the form to you. If the fee isn’t paid, approval is withdrawn. In addition to the main fee, AED 300 has to be paid to the Dubai Chamber of Commerce.

After the payments have been made, the applicant has to input data about the websites and social media apps that they plan to use to trade on.

If this is all accurate, a verification will be sent to you some minutes later.

When this is complete, and all supporting documentation has been submitted with it, the Department of Economic Development will check your application and verify it (or not). If it is successful, your e-trader licence will be sent to you in about three to five working days.  

Why work with Charles Ntumwa Services?

As this article has shown, applying for an e-trader licence has some complexities, which can trip up an entrepreneur who is not familiar with the regulations. Therefore, company formation specialists such as Charles Ntumwa Services can be crucial to entrepreneurs in helping them to apply for the licence successfully first time.

Charles Ntumwa Services’ team has been involved in setting up businesses for many years in the UAE and can negotiate the complexities of licence regulations with skill to allow an entrepreneur to focus on ensuring the business is ready to trade and make money from the off.

To find out more and to receive a personalised quote, please contact Charles Ntumwa Services today.

The post E-trader Licence for Expats 2024 Guide appeared first on WWF.

Understanding the ins and outs of e-commerce licensing in the UAE can be complex, but finding affordable options doesn’t have to be difficult.

This article aims to demystify the process, providing insights into the lowest-price e-commerce license in the UAE and factors affecting the cost. By the end, you’ll be better prepared to take your first steps into the UAE’s vibrant e-commerce scene.

Understanding e-commerce licensing in the UAE

Before we dive into the specifics of the most affordable e-commerce license in the UAE, let’s first understand what they are and why they are essential for conducting online business in the region.

What is an e-commerce license?

An e-commerce license is a regulatory permit granted by UAE authorities that allows businesses to sell goods or services online. It’s a legal requirement for anyone who wishes to operate an online store or e-commerce platform within the country. This license ensures that the business is conducted in a lawful and regulated manner, protecting both the business owner and the consumers.

Why is an e-commerce license needed in the UAE?

In the UAE, as in many other countries, operating an e-commerce business without a proper license is illegal. The license signifies that your business is legitimate and trustworthy, which is crucial in building consumer confidence. It also ensures that your business complies with local laws and regulations, covering everything from data protection to consumer rights.

General costs associated with getting an e-commerce license

The cost of acquiring an e-commerce license in the UAE can vary widely based on several factors. These can include the location of the business, the nature of the products or services being sold, and the specific regulatory body issuing the license. Generally, the cost can range from a few thousand to several tens of thousands of dirhams.

Having looked at the basics of what an e-commerce license is and why it’s necessary, let’s delve into the factors that affect its cost. This knowledge is crucial in finding the most cost-effective license for your specific business needs.

Factors affecting the cost of an e-commerce license in the UAE

Before we explore the most inexpensive e-commerce license available in the UAE, it’s essential to understand the various factors that can influence their cost. This will give you a clearer picture of what you’re paying for and how you might be able to save money.

Several factors can affect the cost of an e-commerce license in the UAE. One key factor is the type of business activities you plan to undertake. Certain activities may require additional approvals or qualifications, which could add to the cost.

The selected jurisdiction or licensing authority also plays a significant role. Licenses from free zones, for instance, can often be cheaper than those from mainland authorities but may come with restrictions on where you can conduct business.

Finally, the size of your business and the number of visas required can also affect the cost. More visas can mean higher costs, but larger businesses may also enjoy economies of scale that can help reduce costs per visa.

How Each Factor Impacts the Overall Cost

The type of business activity affects the cost because different activities may require different levels of oversight and regulation. For example, selling physical goods may require more regulatory scrutiny than offering digital services, leading to higher costs.

Choosing between a free zone and mainland license is a trade-off between cost and flexibility. While free zone licenses can be cheaper, they restrict your business from operating within the free zone, which may limit your market reach.

The size of your business and the number of visas needed can directly impact the cost of your license. While larger businesses may need to pay more in absolute terms due to the need for more visas, they may also get better rates per visa due to economies of scale, making their per-employee licensing cost lower.

Armed with this understanding of the factors that affect the cost of an e-commerce license, you’re now ready to explore the cheapest options available in the UAE.

The lowest-priced e-commerce license in the UAE

One of the most affordable e-commerce licenses in the UAE is offered by the SPC Free Zone. The cost starts at AED 5,750, making it a competitive choice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

However, it’s important to remember that the license fee is just one part of the overall cost. Additional expenses include resident visa eligibility, office spaces and facilities, and the registering authority. Therefore, factoring these into your budget when planning your e-commerce venture is advisable.

It’s also worth noting that the UAE offers several benefits for e-commerce business owners. The country is strategically located between Africa, Asia, and Europe, providing easy access to growth markets. Furthermore, the UAE offers a range of tax incentives, high-standard infrastructure, and a secure banking system, all of which contribute to an attractive business environment

Lastly, obtaining an e-commerce license in the UAE is a straightforward process. Once your documents are approved, you can receive your license within five working days.

In the next section, we will discuss how to effectively manage an e-commerce business in the UAE to ensure its success and profitability.

Factors to consider when choosing a license

When deciding on an e-commerce license, several factors should be considered:

1. Business activities: Your license should cover all the activities your business intends to perform. Ensure the license you choose allows for the range of goods or services you plan to offer.
2. Budget: While the cost of the license is a significant factor, remember to consider the overall costs, including office space, visas, and additional fees.
3. Jurisdiction: Consider whether a free zone or mainland license is better for your business. While free zone licenses can be cheaper, they may limit where you can do business.
4. Visa requirements: If you plan to hire staff or if you’ll be moving to the UAE, you’ll need to consider the number of visas the license allows.

Getting the most out of your chosen license

Once you’ve chosen your license, it’s important to maximise its benefits.

1. Utilise available services: Many licensing authorities offer additional services like legal support, business setup assistance, and office space. Take advantage of these to ease your business setup process.
2. Stay compliant: Ensure you remain compliant with all local laws and regulations. Failure to do so can result in penalties and potentially jeopardise your business.
3. Network: The UAE is a thriving business hub. Network with other businesses in your area to create valuable partnerships and learn from others’ experiences.

The key to successful e-commerce is not only about securing the most affordable license but also choosing the one that will support your business’s growth and profitability. In the next section, we’ll discuss the process of applying for an e-commerce license in the UAE.

The process of applying for an e-commerce license in the UAE

Applying for an e-commerce license in the UAE involves a set of steps that need to be followed diligently. This section will guide you through the procedure, helping you navigate the application process efficiently and effectively.

Preparing your documents

The first step in applying for an e-commerce license in the UAE is to prepare all the necessary documents. This typically includes your passport, business plan, and proof of address, among others. Remember, each licensing authority may have its own specific requirements, so it’s essential to verify what documents are needed.

Submitting your application

Once your documents are ready, our company formation specialists will help you submit your application to the respective authority.

Receiving your license

After approval, you’ll receive your e-commerce license, which officially allows you to conduct online business within the UAE. Remember, it’s essential to renew your license annually to maintain its validity.

Setting up your e-commerce business

With your license in hand, you can now start setting up your e-commerce business. This involves creating your online store, setting up your payment gateway, and starting your marketing and sales efforts.

Obtaining an e-commerce license in the UAE is a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning and execution. Once your business is set up, the next step is to ensure its growth and sustainability. In the next section, we’ll explore the best practices for running a successful e-commerce business in the UAE.

How Charles Ntumwa Services can help

When it comes to setting up an e-commerce business in the UAE, having the right support is invaluable. Charles Ntumwa Services, a leading corporate advisory service provider established in 2008, offers comprehensive solutions tailored to your unique needs.

As a trusted provider to clients from over 90 countries, Charles Ntumwa Services has the expertise and experience to guide you through the process of setting up your e-commerce venture in the UAE. As an officially registered agent across major UAE free zones, we can support company setups, mainland and offshore structures and offer visa and second citizenship support.

Our services go beyond just licensing and setup. We connect our global client base of over 10,000 to a wide range of B2B solutions through our network of esteemed partners. This includes services in accounting, taxation, financial audits, and more, allowing you to focus on what matters most – growing your business.

With Charles Ntumwa Services, navigating the business setup landscape in Dubai becomes a hassle-free experience. Our dedicated team of experts is ready to help you make the most of the opportunities the UAE’s thriving e-commerce sector offers. Whether you’re looking to start a new venture or expand an existing one, trust Charles Ntumwa Services to provide the support you need to succeed.

The post The Most Inexpensive E-Commerce License in the UAE appeared first on WWF.

Dubai has become a popular destination for holidaymakers in the past decade, and a home for many others attracted by the quality of life on offer and the sheer ease of doing business.

With the rise in remote working – where entrepreneurs or employees can work anywhere outside the traditional workplace, as long as they have a laptop, phone and good Wi-Fi access – many people are looking to move to Dubai and benefit from the lifestyle it offers, while maintaining their existing employment.

But to do this, a person requires a remote work visa. This article covers all you need to know about what this is, what it costs and how to apply for it.

Company formation specialists such as Charles Ntumwa Services can help applicants navigate the process. Contact Charles Ntumwa Services for a personalised quote.

This article covers:

• Remote Work Visa – an overview
• Dubai’s virtual working programme – explained
• Applying for Dubai’s remote-working programme
• Benefits of working remotely from Dubai
• Cost of Dubai’s remote work visa?
• Can I work remotely from Dubai?
• Dubai remote work visa processing time
• Are there any restrictions on nationalities?
• Why choose Charles Ntumwa Services?

Remote Work Visa – an overview

The remote work visa was introduced earlier this year, having been initially announced in 2021 to give people from across the globe the opportunity to live in Dubai while working remotely. The visa, which is valid for one year, enables non-nationals to self-sponsor to come to Dubai and work, although this is subject to certain conditions.

The visa – thought to be the only one in this part of the Middle East so far – also enables entrepreneurs to use Dubai’s world-class facilities and infrastructure to build a business remotely in the thriving regional economy.

Dubai devised the remote work visa to capitalise on the growth of remote working in recent years – especially post-COVID-19 pandemic – as a way to boost the local economy, given that people will come to Dubai and spend money in local shops and with local businesses. Other countries have implemented similar visas, including Bermuda and Cyprus.

Dubai’s virtual working programme – explained

Dubai offers a virtual working programme where workers living outside the UAE can move to Dubai and maintain their job with their existing employer remotely. Start-up businesses and entrepreneurs can also take advantage of this, providing they meet certain requirements.

It should be noted that if an application to move to Dubai is approved, the applicant can sponsor their family to come with them.

The programme, launched in October 2020, lasts for a year, but those on it can renew it at the end of that year. People already resident cannot apply for the virtual working programme.

Applying for Dubai’s remote-working programme

Applicants are required to hold a passport valid for more than six months, as well as health insurance covering living in the UAE.

Additionally, employees must give evidence of their employment status, such as a contract lasting one year; earnings of at least $5,000 per month, including their most recent salary slip; and bank statements for the previous three months.

Meanwhile, business owners have to show they have owned the operation for at least 12 months and demonstrate an average income of at least $5,000 per month, with business bank statements for the past quarter to prove this.

Applications can be made online or through approved typing centres, although specialists such as Charles Ntumwa Services can help with this and ensure applications are correct before they are submitted to ensure the process is as quick and smooth as possible.

Benefits of working remotely from Dubai

There are numerous benefits. For example, Dubai is renowned for the modernness, quality and efficiency of its utilities, medical provision and schools. Those who use the visa also benefit from Dubai’s zero income tax for individuals, which can make a big difference to the amount of money they have to spend.

Another benefit is that, thanks to the Emirate’s location, workers can serve a variety of time zones. This means that, if you are part of a business with offices worldwide, you can still take part in videoconferences or collaborate with colleagues with relative ease and not have to get up ultra-early or stay up to all hours to do so. Whether colleagues or clients are based in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa or North America, correspondence is easy.

Likewise, Dubai’s location makes it easy to travel to other countries for work trips – much of the globe is accessible within an eight-hour flight – so there is no issue attending conferences or in-person meetings.

Cost of Dubai’s remote work visa

A Dubai remote work visa costs $81, although people applying need to factor in the cost of things such as the medical and Emirates ID – both required to stay in the Emirate.

The virtual working programme costs $287, but, again, there are other costs on top of this, such as UAE-valid medical insurance and processing fees. The total cost is about $610. It should be noted that payment of the processing fee isn’t an indication that an application will be approved.

Can I work remotely from Dubai?

The simple answer is yes. Dubai is an ideal place to work remotely because of the advanced telecoms infrastructure in place – the government has invested millions in recent years to ensure that it is a world leader in this area. With high speed and stable internet available across Dubai, people can work from anywhere they choose. The UAE was ranked third in a global list of ‘Most Connected Countries’ recently, and in 2021, it was reported as having the fastest mobile internet speed in the world.

There are also numerous co-working rental spaces available in Dubai for those looking for comfortable workstations.

Dubai remote work visa processing time

Processing a remote work visa in Dubai usually takes between five and seven days – although it can be more than this if the application doesn’t include the correct information and documents.

Are there any restrictions on nationalities?

While no restrictions have been imposed on any nationalities wanting to come to Dubai, the Immigration Service can refuse applications on national security grounds.

Why choose Charles Ntumwa Services 

As this article shows, there are many reasons to come to Dubai, but applying for a remote work visa can be complex, which can cause difficulties for those unfamiliar with local regulations. However, specialists such as Charles Ntumwa Services can help people make an application successfully and ensure the process is completed as quickly as possible.

Charles Ntumwa Services has many years of business setup experience in the UAE and is skilled in making the complex nature of licence regulations seem straightforward. This means our clients can concentrate on the most important things – readying their business for trading and ensuring it is profitable from the start.

Contact Charles Ntumwa Services for a personalised quote and more information today. 

The post Remote Work Visa Dubai: All you need to know appeared first on WWF.

For many living in Dubai, starting a business is a life goal. The chance to work for yourself, with no boss telling you what to do, and making your own money is alluring.

There are many opportunities for would-be entrepreneurs in Dubai in a multitude of sectors. The economy has diversified hugely in recent years, backed by the government, which wants to make the emirate a premier destination for businesses both new and established.

The best thing is that anyone can set up a business in Dubai. The process to do this is relatively easy – and there are company formation specialists that can help with that – and often this can be done with minimal upfront investment.

This article covers:

• Low investment business ideas in Dubai
• Starting a business in Dubai with little or no investment
• Why choose Charles Ntumwa Services?

Low investment business ideas in Dubai

Here are seven ideas for businesses that can be set up with little or no upfront investment from the entrepreneur.

Website development

There are very few businesses today that do not have an online presence of some description and, depending on the sector it operates in, it is essential. This means websites must be fast loading, easy to navigate and attractive. Skilled website designers, who can deliver websites to specification, without bugs, are highly sought after and can command large fees.

While there are some potential setup costs for website designers, such as purchasing the necessary equipment and software, this is easily recouped when the first contracts come in.

Websites are also not static entities and will need to be constantly updated and improved, which means that ongoing contracts can be secured.

Pet-sitting

Many people in Dubai own pets, but, if they work full-time, these pets need to be looked after while they are out at work. This is where the professional pet-sitter comes in and is something that is growing in popularity.

As the name suggests, a pet-sitter looks after a pet, or pets, in the owner’s home while they are out, be it at work, away on business or on holiday. This includes things like feeding them, taking them for walks (if required) and generally caring for them.

All that is needed is some knowledge (and love) of animals and how to care for them and to be able to travel to the owner’s home – usually not a problem thanks to Dubai’s transport infrastructure. Often, the only setup costs are for advertising online, although there are free ways to do this, such as on social media platforms.

Social media management

Most businesses now have a presence on social media, and many understand how it can be a huge marketing tool for them. But some businesses, especially smaller ones, often don’t have the time or skills to make the most of their social media accounts, meaning some are turning to freelance experts who can manage them on their behalf, for a fee.

This can involve creating and publishing content, such as videos, memes and blogs – which can be done with just a laptop, phone and decent editing software.

Online tutor

If you have skills or expertise that others might want to learn, then you can easily set up as an online tutor. Popular topics include school subjects such as maths and languages as well as musical instruments or crafts.

Online tutors can teach sessions on a one-to-one or group basis, and fees are usually charged by the half hour or hour. This is another business where regular customers can be built up quickly if the service provided is good. It can also be worked around other responsibilities such as childcare.

Again, up-front investment is low, perhaps just the videoconferencing technology, as you already have the skill and qualifications.

Professional cleaning services

Many people living in Dubai lead busy lives, which means that they can struggle to find time for tasks such as house cleaning. Increasingly, people in Dubai are paying others to clean for them.

No qualifications are needed, and setup costs are low – just the equipment to do the cleaning and maybe some advertising in local media. One of the advantages of cleaning is that it can be flexible – times can be arranged to be mutually convenient – and you can build up regular clients quickly if your service is good. Commercial cleaning – such as offices – can also be an avenue to explore and can pay more than domestic cleaning.

Recruitment consultant

With so many businesses now based in Dubai, and more setting up in the emirate all the time, the need to recruit new employees never ends. Successfully recruiting new employees can be a process that takes up valuable time and money – and if it is got wrong, it can cost a business a lot more. Many business owners understandably outsource this process to recruitment consultancies.

In the past, recruitment consultancies were in physical premises, but post-COVID and with the rise of videoconferencing, many consultants are now doing this successfully online.

It is useful to have some experience in this sector before setting up your own recruitment consultancy, as it is an industry where reputation and peer-to-peer recommendations often count for a lot, especially when just starting up.

Online retailer

Online shops are a popular option for many business owners, as they don’t have many of the costs of physical premises, such as rent, electricity, staffing etc. This also widens the number of potential customers from passers-by to anyone with access to the internet. It is particularly popular among entrepreneurs in the craft sector, as they can market their wares and take orders online through various payment methods with ease.

In addition, there are numerous online marketplaces that retailers can join, which can make it easier for customers to find their products, rather than relying on Google search or social media.

Starting a business in Dubai with little or no investment

While all of the business ideas listed above need little or any upfront investment in equipment, premises or stock, the biggest cost that has to be considered is the business licence, although even this is very affordable.

How much a licence costs depends on the type of business that is being set up, and where it is being set up. For instance, if you base your business in a free zone, a business licence usually costs between AED 10,000–15,000. Another option is to submit an application to the Department of Economic Development, which generally costs about AED 15,000.

What kind of business setup you choose will depend on what products or services you provide and how big it is. For help with this, company formation specialists can provide advice on which setup is right for your business and help you to apply for the business licence and even a visa, if required.

Why choose Charles Ntumwa Services?

As this article has shown, there are many businesses that can be started with little or no investment, but help can still be needed with the setup process, which is where company formation specialists such as Charles Ntumwa Services can be crucial.

Charles Ntumwa Services’ team has helped to set up many businesses in Dubai over the years and can negotiate the complexities to allow an entrepreneur to focus on what they are good at – making money.

To find out more and to receive a personalised quote, please contact Charles Ntumwa Services today.

The post Businesses You Can Start in Dubai with No Investment appeared first on WWF.

There has never been a better time to start a business in Dubai. The government has made strides to make Dubai a great place to start a business in recent years as it strives to move away from an economy relying on oil by putting in place various measures to support a wide range of businesses from grants to hi-tech business campuses.

A major pull for entrepreneurs is the more than 30 free zones that have been set up in Dubai. These enable non-nationals to own all their business, as well as providing numerous other benefits.

If you are thinking of striking out on your own, but are still working for another employer, this article covers what you need to know. It focuses on the following topics:

• Can you start a business while still being employed in Dubai?
• Steps to obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC)
• What to do if your NOC is rejected

Can you start a business while still being employed in Dubai?

Yes, you can start a business while still being employed in Dubai – even if you are working full-time for another employer – is the short answer. But there are many things that entrepreneurs need to be aware of if they want to start their own business. For example, employers can have a say in whether the person can set up a business and there are various forms that need to be completed.

Setting up a business can be a complicated process, and it is always advisable to seek the services of company formation specialists such as Charles Ntumwa Services. For more information, please contact us.

However, it should be remembered that many big businesses were started by their owner as a side line to their main employment, and only when the business starts making enough money will the owner leave their job and go full-time into their own venture.

As mentioned, Dubai is regarded as a centre for commerce and there is plenty of help and resources available for entrepreneurs to give them the best chance of making their business a profitable endeavour. An added advantage of Dubai as a place to base a business is the low tax regime and easy access to transport across the world.

Steps to obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC)

The most important documents that people in employment who want to establish a business in Dubai need is a NOC from the company that employs them and a trade license under their visa.

The NOC is a legal requirement under UAE labour laws and allows an employed person to set up their own company. But, importantly, it is up to the employer whether they allow or deny the NOC application. Gaining the employer’s acceptance is often the most difficult part of the process, as employers can deny a request for various reasons, such as compliance, security policies or worries about competition, if the business the employee wants to establish is in the same sector.

Various documents are required to be submitted by the person to their employer to get an NOC, including: copies of the passports of all partners in the business being set up; a copy of the name reservation of the new business; Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association; a cash or bank guarantee of AED50,000 and a letter of undertaking that the UAE partner has signed.

To get an NOC, a person should first file a request for one via the Dubai Trade Portal, including submitting the various documents required for it. A fee of AED500 is also required, which is for NOC issuing fees. Then the person must get the NOC approved by the Department of Economic Development (DED). Once this has been gained, the NOC document should be saved in the company’s record.

When – or if – the NOC is granted, the employee is free to establish their business anywhere in the UAE.

What to do if your NOC is rejected

However, as mentioned above, it is at the employer’s discretion as to whether the NOC is granted. But if it is rejected, there are still several options open to the would-be entrepreneur.

For example, the person can choose to set up their business in one of the various free trade zones in the UAE that do not need an NOC from the person’s employer.

Alternatively, people in employment can establish their business under their spouse’s name or that of a relative. They can be appointed as a partner or managing director, but control of the business can be kept by the person.

Another avenue for employed people is to apply for an instant license from the DED. This allows a person to undertake activities related to their business under special guidelines set out by the government. To obtain this license, the person setting up a business does not have to send any physical documents with the application.

The process of applying for an instant license can be broken down into steps:

• Firstly, the applicant has to go to a DED counter to apply for the instant license. If the person is applying for themselves, they require a UAE pass.
• To obtain a UAE pass, a person needs to register on the DED portal using their Emirates ID and then inputting the details requested. Following this, they will need to go to the DED website and amend their business profile.
• To get the instant license, there is a step-by-step process to be followed on the DED website. Various details are required for this, including the name of the business, who its stakeholders are, what the planned business activities are, and details of the UAE sponsor. This step can also be completed manually.
• Following this, an electronic MOA has to be signed and submitted for the DED to approve.
• Approval of all business partners – if there are any – also needs to be provided. All partners are sent an automatic message of consent.
• Finally, the payment voucher for the license must be generated. Once it has been activated, the payment needs to be made and completes the process.

Why work with Charles Ntumwa Services?

As described above, business setup in the UAE can be complicated, and the process does take time and comes with risks if the person does not have detailed knowledge of the local laws and business norms. There are also various costs of setting a business up that entrepreneurs need to be aware of. This is why it is prudent to seek the help of experienced business consultants such as Charles Ntumwa Services, which can manage this process and make it as smooth and cost-effective as possible.

Charles Ntumwa Services are vastly experienced in setting up businesses in Dubai in a way that is optimal for the owner. With our local knowledge, our consultants can navigate the complexities of business law with skill and speed to ensure your business is operational as soon as possible and you can focus on building it and making profits.

For more information and a personalised quote, please contact us.

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