How to Setup a Mobile App Development Business in Dubai, UAE: Step by Step Guide
Dubai currently stands as one of the most technologically advanced cities globally, leading the way among major cities in the Middle East. Consequently, the Establishment Of An App Development Company In Dubai is not only sensible but also strategic.
- 100% Foreign Ownership
- Easy Business Setup
- Lower Development Costs
- Skilled Talent Pool
The current surge in the mobile app market presents a lucrative opportunity, with the app development market in Dubai being particularly accessible. New firms encounter no entry barriers, and establishing an app development company in Dubai provides all the necessary elements for transforming the venture into a successful project.
Why Your Should Start Mobile App Development Business in Dubai, UAE ?
The App Store and Google Play Store currently host millions of free apps catering to diverse needs, ranging from hailing cabs and tracking trips to monitoring sleep, diet, exercise routines, reading books, and listening to music. The mobile industry has witnessed significant growth globally over the past decade.
Due to the streamlined incorporation process, many mobile app development companies opt to establish themselves in a free zone. This allows the flexibility of geographically distributing the app development team globally or engaging the services of local freelance developers. Initiating operations within a jurisdiction offering Flexi-desk services can help keep startup and overhead costs at a minimum.
Given the rapid pace of the mobile app industry, it is imperative to stay abreast of these advancements to deliver optimal services to customers. Adapting to evolving technologies, such as virtual reality or artificial intelligence, is crucial for maintaining agility and competitiveness in the market.
Benefits of Establishing a Mobile App Development Business in Dubai, UAE
Commencing an app company in Dubai offers numerous advantages. The process can be expedited and cost-effective with the assistance of Smart Zones® UAE business setup specialists.
- Lower Development Costs: Compared to Western countries, Dubai offers developers with competitive rates, allowing you to build high-quality apps within budget. Expect hourly rates 30-40% lower than the US or Europe.
- Favorable Tax Environment: Dubai boasts low corporate taxes and various tax exemptions for startups, lowering your overall business expenses.
- Gateway To Lucrative Markets: Dubai's strategic location connects you to Europe, Asia, Middle East, and Africa, offering access to diverse and growing app markets.
- Thriving Local Market: The UAE, led by Dubai, is witnessing a mobile app boom, with high smartphone penetration and app downloads, translating to potential clients on your doorstep.
- Simplified Company Formation: Dubai streamlines the business setup process, saving you time and resources. Consider setting up in free zones for additional benefits.
- Government Support: The government actively supports tech businesses through grants, loans, and incubation programs.
- Skilled Talent Pool: Dubai attracts talented developers from across the globe, allowing you to build a strong team.
- Advanced Infrastructure: Dubai boasts world-class internet connectivity and tech infrastructure, supporting seamless app development and deployment.
- Networking Opportunities: Free zones and co-working spaces foster collaboration and connections with other tech businesses.
- Digital Transformation Focus: Dubai prioritizes digital transformation, creating a supportive environment for innovative app development.
Most Suitable Free Zones for Mobile App Businesses in the UAE
The following Free Zones are deemed most suitable for Mobile App businesses due to their Free Zone characteristics.
Dubai Internet City (DIC)
- Dubai Internet City (DIC) stands out as the most suitable free zone for establishing a mobile app company in Dubai.
- Opting for Dubai Internet City (DIC) requires additional documents such as a comprehensive business plan and a certificate of incorporation.
- Flexi-desk packages are provided by Dubai Internet City (DIC).
- Dubai Internet City (DIC) allows the option of applying for one visa per eight square meters of office space.
- Dubai Internet City (DIC) permits more than one shareholder to form a company during the company creation process.
- Under Dubai Internet City (DIC) Flexi-desk packages, it is also possible to submit applications for several visas.
Fujairah Creative City Free Zone
- Choosing Fujairah Creative City Free Zone for setting up a mobile app company in Dubai is a more cost-effective option.
- Fujairah Creative City involves minimal paperwork, eliminating the need for paid-up share capital, an annual audit, or other formal bookkeeping.
- Flexi-desk packages are also available at Fujairah Creative City.
- Fujairah Creative City offers freelancer and single-owner packages.
- Allows more than one shareholder to form a company during the company creation process.
- Under Fujairah Creative City Free Zone Flexi-desk packages, it is also possible to submit applications for up to six visas.
Business Structure and Planning in Dubai, UAE
Choosing the right business structure is vital when launching a firm in Dubai. Options include:
- 1. Free Zone Company: A free zone company provides foreign ownership, and simplified registration processes, ideal for global operations.
- 2. Mainland Company: Mainland companies adhere to UAE laws and regulations and are suitable for businesses targeting the domestic market.
- 3. Offshore Company: Offshore companies are Practical for commercial companies registered abroad wishing to operate outside their primary countries.
Consider factors like your business services, target market, and long-term goals when selecting a structure, and consult legal and business experts for guidance.
Steps to Launch a Mobile App Development Company in Dubai, UAE
Establishing a Mobile App Development Business in Dubai involves several steps:
Embark on the journey of opening a business in Dubai by partnering with Smart Zones® UAE. Our adept company formation specialists will guide you through the business license application and setup process, liaising with relevant government and municipal authorities on your behalf.
The process of establishing a business in Dubai involves the strategic decision of choosing between the mainland or free zone options. Setting up a business in Dubai mainland allows you to trade anywhere in the UAE. However, a free zone enables you to trade within the free zone premises or engage in international trade. Mobile app development companies typically target international customers, making company formation in Dubai free zones a preferable option for investors. In such cases, consider free zones such as Dtec, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), etc., for obtaining a trade license. These free zones also provide flexible desk options and other facilities for your startup. Knowledgeable company setup experts in Dubai can assist you in obtaining a trade license.
You need to select from the business activities offered by the relevant free zone authorities. Free zones offer a broad range of activities related to the development of mobile apps. Verify the available activities with the assistance of business setup consultants in Dubai.
According to the regulations of business setup in Dubai, you must choose a name for your business. The name must be unique and should not contain blasphemous or obscene words. Violating the naming guidelines may result in the rejection of your license application.
In the next step, select a proper corporate structure for your proposed company. The legal structure depends on the number of shareholders in your proposed company. Free zones primarily offer corporate structures such as Free Zone Establishment (FZE) and Free Zone Company (FZC).
A free zone license typically includes the option to choose a coworking space or a Flexi desk. Depending on the size of your team, select the best office space option for your app development company. Coworking spaces in free zones come with modern facilities and amenities. After completion, submit the relevant documents to obtain a license
Complete the process by opening your corporate bank account for your Dubai Business with Smart Zones® UAE. This final step paves the way for the successful opening of your Business.
Remember that the process may vary depending on your chosen jurisdiction and business activities. Consulting legal and business experts familiar with Dubai's business setup landscape is highly recommended.
Looking for a seamless business setup experience? Trust Smart Zones® Dubai to pave the way.
Documents Required to Start a Mobile App Development Company in Dubai, UAE
- Submission of passport copies for both the company's owner and partner
- Documentation of the proof of payment for the initial approval fees
- Furnishing of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) issued by the sponsors
- Presentation of a notarized partnership agreement
- For a sole investor, a mandatory payment of 10,000 Dirhams is requisite, whereas partners with a professional license must provide a security deposit of 20,000 Dirhams. The business is required to operate from a designated office, and the lease agreement can be submitted by the owner.
- Inclusion of a copy of the local partner’s naturalization book
Submitting incorrect documents can lead to immediate rejection. Our consultants at Smart Zones® UAE ensure you have the right documents, avoiding any complications in the process.
Cost of Establishing a Mobile App Development Business in Dubai, UAE
When initiating an app development business in Dubai, it is crucial to contemplate diverse costs. The cost of establishing a company in Dubai typically ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 25,000; however, this figure may vary depending on the requisite licenses and visas. Furthermore, entrepreneurs should include expenses related to workspace setup and the acquisition of necessary equipment for the business.
For a precise quotation, reach out to Smart Zones® UAE to obtain an updated estimate tailored to your specific requirements. This ensures that you are securing the most competitive rate for the services essential to your business.
Starting a mobile app development business in Dubai offers a lucrative opportunity due to the booming mobile app market. Dubai provides accessible entry for new firms, with no significant barriers, and offers all necessary elements for a successful venture.
Establishing a mobile app development business in Dubai comes with benefits like lower development costs, a favorable tax environment, access to diverse markets, a thriving local market, simplified company formation, government support, a skilled talent pool, advanced infrastructure, networking opportunities, and a focus on digital transformation.
The most suitable free zones for mobile app businesses in the UAE are Dubai Internet City (DIC) and Fujairah Creative City Free Zone. DIC offers flexibility, multiple shareholders, and visa options. Fujairah Creative City is cost-effective, involves minimal paperwork, and provides freelancer and single-owner packages.
The steps involve partnering with Smart Zones® UAE, selecting a free zone, deciding on a business activity, choosing a unique business name, selecting a legal structure, choosing an office space, and opening a corporate bank account. The process may vary based on jurisdiction and business activities.
Required documents include passport copies for the company owner and partner, proof of payment for initial approval fees, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsors, a notarized partnership agreement, local partner's naturalization book copy, and correct documentation to avoid rejection.
The cost typically ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 25,000, including licenses and visas. Additional expenses for workspace setup and necessary equipment should be considered. For a precise quotation, consult Smart Zones® UAE for an updated estimate tailored to specific requirements.
Want to know more, talk to Smart Zones® Dubai advisory team they will be happy to help. Ready to invest in your future?
