Why This Guide Exists
The top frustration: "I budgeted AED 15,000 and spent AED 35,000." This guide lists every cost category so you budget accurately.
License & Registration
Free Zone: AED 5,750 (freelance) to AED 35,000 (industrial) Mainland DED: AED 10,000 to AED 30,000 plus registration fees (AED 2,000-5,000)Office / Workspace
| Option | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Virtual desk (free zone) | AED 0–3,000 |
| Flexi-desk | AED 3,000–8,000 |
| Shared office | AED 8,000–20,000 |
| Dedicated office | AED 15,000–60,000 |
| Ejari office (mainland) | AED 15,000–50,000+ |
Visa & Immigration (per person)
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Entry permit | AED 1,000–1,500 |
| Medical test | AED 300–500 |
| Emirates ID | AED 370 |
| Visa stamping | AED 500–1,000 |
| Health insurance | AED 700–3,000/year |
| Total per visa | AED 3,500–7,000 |
Government & Administrative
Establishment card: AED 2,000-3,000. PRO services: AED 2,000-5,000 if using agent.
Banking
Account opening usually free. Minimum balance: AED 10,000-50,000. International transfers: AED 25-75 each.
Annual Renewals
Budget 70-85% of Year 1 for renewals. License, visa, insurance, office — all renew annually.
Total Cost Scenarios
Solo Freelancer: SHAMS AED 5,750 + visa AED 3,500 + insurance AED 700 = AED 9,950 Small Consultancy (2 people): IFZA AED 11,500 + 2 visas AED 9,000 + desk AED 4,000 = AED 25,900 Trading Company (5 people): DMCC AED 15,000 + 5 visas AED 25,000 + office AED 20,000 = AED 68,000 Mainland LLC (3 people): DED AED 15,000 + office AED 25,000 + 3 visas AED 15,000 = AED 66,000Hidden Costs
- 1.PRO/typing fees (AED 200-500 per transaction)
- 2.Document attestation (AED 500-2,000)
- 3.Visa security deposits (refundable but ties up cash)
- 4.Arabic translation (AED 150-300 per page)
- 5.Bank account delays (3-6 weeks possible)
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