Why is Dubai the Best Place to Start an AI Business?
Tailored Incentives for AI Growth
Dubai has invested millions into positioning itself as a hub for AI businesses. The Emirate has embraced AI in healthcare, education, enforced multiple protection laws to ensure intellectual property is kept confidential, and offers advanced technological facilities to support startups and SMEs.
Business-Friendly Environment
Apart from the country’s investment in embracing AI, Dubai was already an attractive location for foreign investment and company setup. It offers perks like:
- No corporate tax (for revenue under AED 375,000)
- No income tax
- Complete ownership of business
- Diverse customer base
- Multiple business locations (including free zones)
Easy Business Setup Process
Getting an AI business license in Dubai is a relatively streamlined process due to the country’s company formation regulations. The UAE has eliminated most of the red tape that surrounds business setup, making it much easier to start a business than in other countries.
Working with expert business setup consultants in Dubai (like the ones at A&A Associate) can give you complete guidance with applying for a trade license and visas, getting an office, and opening a bank account.
How to Start an AI Business: The Steps
1. Finalize Business Activity & Company Structure
You can pick between multiple business activities for starting an AI company, like:
- Research & Development
- Healthcare
- Data Analysis
- Finance
- Software Development
- Sustainability
- Logistics
If you’re setting up in a free zone, you can set up a branch of an existing company, a Free Zone Establishment (FZE), or a Free Zone Company (FZCO). If you’re on the mainland, you can form a partnership, LLC, PJSC, or a sole proprietorship.
2. Get Approvals
3. Get an Office Space
Not every business needs a physical location, but some type of address (even if it’s virtual) is necessary for almost every type of business. Your visa quota depends on the type of office space you lease in a free zone. Mainland companies can enjoy unlimited visas.
4. Apply for an AI Company License
You can also choose between the other types of AI company licenses if your business is using artificial intelligence:
Trade licenses can take between 1 day to 3 months to get approved, so make sure to apply well in advance. Once you get your license, you can hire your team, apply for their visas, and start your business.
5. Open a Business Bank Account
What is the Cost of Starting an AI Company?
The price of setting up an AI company depends on the type of:
- Location
- Business activity
- License
- Lease requirements
- Number of employees
It will cost you around AED 10,000 to AED 50,000 to get a license for an AI company in Dubai. Reach out to a business setup consultant if you want to get an exact price for your business needs.
Best Places in UAE to Start an AI Business
If you’re thinking about getting an AI business license in Dubai, these are some popular places to base your operations:
- DIFC Free Zone
- Dubai Multi Commodities Center (DMCC)
- Dubai Internet City Free Zone
- RAK Digital Assets Oasis Free Zone (RAK DAO)
- Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
Let A&A Associate Help You Start an AI Business
A&A Associate offers expert business setup services for AI companies. Our consultants are seasoned professionals in navigating trade name reservations, trade license applications, and helping you open a bank account. We can also advise you on choosing the best location for your business and support you through the visa process.
