What documents does a Pakistani national need to start a architecture consultancy business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Pakistan passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Pakistan, attested documents via Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan, and a business plan for your architecture consultancy venture.

How long does it take for a Pakistani citizen to set up a architecture consultancy company in DMCC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 3–6 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 13–23 business days.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Architecture Consultancy company in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre?

Yes, DMCC allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Architecture Consultancy company in DMCC?

Most of the setup process for a architecture consultancy business in DMCC can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

Can I get a residence visa with my Architecture Consultancy licence from DMCC?

Yes, your architecture consultancy licence from DMCC entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 3 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,200.

Is Dubai Multi Commodities Centre good for architecture consultancy start-ups?

DMCC is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering 100% foreign ownership and zero corporate and income tax. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 6,300 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

What business activities can I include on my DMCC licence?

Your DMCC licence can include architecture consultancy as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Most free zones allow multiple activities on a single licence, though some may charge a small fee for additional activities. IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

Architecture Consultancy in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre for Pakistani nationals

Free ZoneProfessionalRegulated Activity

Architecture Consultancy in DMCC

Starting From

AED 15,300

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Architecture Consultancy

Setting up an Architecture Consultancy business in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre as a Pakistani citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Pakistan-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Pakistani business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at DMCC has been streamlined significantly, with most professional licences processed within 3 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 15,300, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your architecture consultancy business in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why DMCC for Architecture Consultancy?

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for professional businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers 100% foreign ownership, which is particularly valuable for architecture consultancy operations. Additionally, zero corporate and income tax ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 6,300 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 3 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Strategic JLT location further enhances the appeal of DMCC for architecture consultancy professionals. Furthermore, world's leading free zone positions your architecture consultancy business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DMCC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Pakistani nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Pakistani business community.

100% foreign ownership

Zero corporate and income tax

Strategic JLT location

World's leading free zone

Access to commodities market

Visa Requirements for Pakistani Nationals

For Pakistani entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Pakistani nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Business visa or residence visa can be sponsored by the company once incorporated. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your architecture consultancy business in DMCC.

Banking for Pakistani Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your architecture consultancy company in DMCC: Pakistani entrepreneurs can open corporate bank accounts with standard documentation. Some banks may require additional proof of business activity. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Pakistani business structures.

Document Attestation for Pakistani Nationals

Document attestation for Pakistani nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Pakistan, (2) Attestation by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to architecture consultancy businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Pakistan passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Completed application form for trade licence

5Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

6Detailed business plan or activity description

7Relevant industry experience documentation

8Signed application form from DMCC authority

Regulatory Note: Architecture Consultancy is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Dubai Municipality is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	15,300
Visa Package (per visa)	5,200
Flexi Desk	6,300
Shared Office	12,000
Private Office	30,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 26,800

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your architecture consultancy business plan and the best DMCC licence options for Pakistani nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Pakistan through Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the architecture consultancy licence application to DMCC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DMCC trade licence within 3–6 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Pakistani nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Pakistani entrepreneurs can open corporate bank accounts with standard documentation.

Start Operations

Your architecture consultancy business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DMCC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Pakistani nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Architecture Consultancy in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750