Dubai also offers events like Dubai Shopping Festival which is highly beneficial for those who intend to start a retail shop in Dubai. However, there are some requirements that you should stick to if you intend to open a retail business setup in Dubai.
How to Open a Retail Shop in Dubai?
Most free zone areas offer residential facilities to their employees and their families. Read to know more about why you should open a retail shop in the Freezone areas in Dubai.
Understanding the Type of Retail Shop You Want to Start
The type of license you will be required to have depends on what products you will be dealing with in your shop. Certain products, for example, operating a food or jewelry business require approval from particular government departments. The Department of Economic Development in Dubai (DED) has a list of more than 2100 activities that you can choose from.
Getting a Local Partner for Your Retail Shop (Optional)
Business Registration and Licensing for Retail Shops in Dubai
The second step in the process of retail business setup in Dubai is acquiring the trade license and other key certifications from the authorities. The Department of Economic Development in Dubai (DED) is the government body that authorizes permits to set up a retail shop in the UAE.
Know the Jurisdiction for Your Retail Shop in Dubai
Special Permissions Required for Leasing Shops in Dubai
Process of Setting Up a Retail Shop in Dubai
The process of starting a retail shop in Dubai is quite straightforward. By following the steps listed below, you can get your retail shop up and running within just a week.
Develop a Solid Business Plan for Your Retail Shop
Overestimating Expenses When Starting a Retail Shop in Dubai
Fundamental Startup Costs to Open a Retail Shop in Dubai
- Rent: Business owners must ensure they have enough capital to cover at least 2 years of rent.
- Licensing and permit fees: Includes licenses and permits such as Employer Identification Number, Resale Certificate, Seller’s Certificate, and Certificate of Tenancy.
- Store fixtures: Shelves, cases, display racks, and other furniture.
- Initial inventory: Fully stocked inventory on opening day, sufficient for at least the first four months.
- Equipment and technology: Web access, point-of-sale systems, computers, mobile payment platforms, televisions, and other IT expenses.
- Janitorial services: Costs between $50 and $100 a week if cleaning services are employed.
- Web Hosting: Website designer and hosting services.
- Interior decor: Painting walls, mounting shelving, replacing flooring and counters, etc.
Conclusion: How to Start a Retail Shop in Dubai Successfully
To conclude, to successfully open a retail shop in Dubai, decide your business location, devise a solid business plan, obtain necessary licenses and registration, select jurisdiction, obtain permissions from authorities, and accurately estimate the startup costs.
FAQs about Opening a Retail Shop
The process typically takes around one week to a month, depending on paperwork and approval timelines.The process typically takes around one week to a month, depending on paperwork and approval timelines.
