How to Start a Car Wash Business in Dubai

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Nithila Kumar
Last updated on June 23, 2025

Dubai’s population is growing, and so are the number of cars on the city’s roads. This means waiting at crowded car wash stations, or quick stops at the mall to get your vehicle cleaned. There is a market for convenient car wash services. This guide breaks down how to start a car wash business in Dubai.

Why Open a Car Wash Business in UAE

High demand

Residents get their car washed multiple times a month across petrol stations, malls, and hotels. This indicates a clear demand for this type of service.

Increased population

The country’s growing population makes car wash businesses in Dubai a lucrative business opportunity.

Consistent weather conditions

The UAE sees long, hot summers, filled with dust and sand storms. This makes getting a car wash license in Dubai a good way to capitalize on the country’s weather patterns.

Demand for customized services

There is an increased demand for personalized services. Making a car wash business plan in Dubai that offers customized services is a great way to stand out.

Steps to Set Up a Car Wash Business in Dubai

If you want to start a car wash business in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE, you will need to apply for a car wash license in Dubai with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

1. Company Structure

UAE business setup starts with choosing a legal structure to set up as. You can set up a partnership if you have a business partner you’re going into business with, or an LLC if you want to protect your personal assets. You can also form a sole establishment if you complete control of your business.

2. Trade Name

Before you get a parking car wash license, you need to register a trade name for your business. The name cannot contain any religious or offensive sentiments. Once you’ve registered a business name, you can apply for a trade license in Dubai.

3. Business License

The business advisors at A&A Associate can help you apply for a car wash company license in Dubai. We can handle the application and paperwork, simplifying the licensing process for you. We can also guide you through the decision between applying for a free zone license or a mainland license.

4. Bank Account

A corporate bank account is essential for business owners running their company in the UAE. Having a separate bank account for your car wash business in UAE makes it simpler to manage your expenses and income.

How Much Does it Cost to Start a Car Wash Business?

The car wash license cost in Dubai will depend on the business location, i.e., free zone or mainland. Other factors that will affect the cost are the type of business structure, approval fees for Dubai Municipality and the Chamber of Commerce, number of employees, and the size of the business.

According to our business consultants, you can expect to pay anywhere from AED 10,000 to AED 20,000 for the license. You can use our business setup cost calculator to get a better idea of how much your car wash business will cost.

3 Ways You Can Make Your Car Wash Business in Dubai Unique

The car wash market in the country is a popular industry sector, making it essential that your service offerings are unique and help you stand out from your competitors. Here are some ways you can make your car wash business plan in Dubai unique:

Emphasise sustainability: Offering eco-friendly car wash services that emphasize lower water usage and green practices.
Invest in marketing: Commit to a niche and invest in running ad, social media and outreach campaigns. You should also have a functional website that makes it easy for customers to book your services.
Offer mobile car wash services: Highlighting the convenience of your service by going to your customer’s location can make your business stand out.

Get Your Car Wash License in Dubai With A&A Associate

A&A Associate are company registration experts who can streamline the business set up process for clients setting up businesses anywhere in the UAE. We handle the entire process, from helping you apply for the license to opening a bank account. Book a free consultation today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much is a Mobile Car Wash License in Dubai?

The mobile car wash license in Dubai can cost between AED 10,000 to AED 20,000 depending on the location, business size, and the trade license type.

What is the Best Location for a Car Wash?

The best spot for your car wash business in Dubai is near residential areas, malls, or parking lots with high footfall. You should also look at residential areas without too many car wash places around.

How Much is a Car Wash in UAE?

Generally, a normal car wash in UAE usually costs between AED 30 and AED 100. The prices vary depending on whether it’s a mobile car wash Dubai service or a full-service station.

How Many Types of Car Washes are There?

There are mainly four types: manual, automatic, self-service, and mobile car wash.

What is a Good Car Wash Business Plan in Dubai?

A solid car wash business plan in Dubai includes location research, budget estimates, marketing campaigns, and the trade license type.

What are the Requirements to Start a Car Wash Business in Dubai?

To start a car wash business in Dubai, you need a business name, license, and approvals from the Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Municipality, and the Chamber of Commerce.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Car Wash License in Dubai?

You can get your car wash license in Dubai in 2 to 5 weeks. Working with a business setup consultant can make the process smoother.

Is a Car Wash Business Profitable in the UAE?

A car wash business in UAE can make good money because many people own cars and need regular cleaning.

Can I Run a Car Wash Business Without a Shop in Dubai?

With a mobile car wash Dubai setup, you don’t need an actual business location, you can go to your customers instead.

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Nithila Kumar

With over four years of writing experience, Nithila Ashok Kumar has established a strong expertise in the personal finance, tax, accounting, and business industries. Having worked with companies across the USA, UAE, and India, she specializes in simplifying complex information into content that informs and engages readers.