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

You will need a valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United Kingdom, attested documents via Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and a business plan for your architecture consultancy venture.

How long does it take for a British citizen to set up a architecture consultancy company in Dubai DED?

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 Mainland?

Yes, following the recent amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for most mainland activities, including architecture consultancy. Previously, a local sponsor holding 51% was required, but this is no longer the case.

How long does it take to get a Architecture Consultancy licence in Dubai DED?

The typical processing time for a architecture consultancy licence at Dubai DED is 3 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring Dubai Municipality approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

What are the tax implications for an Architecture Consultancy business in Dubai Mainland?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Mainland companies are subject to the standard 9% corporate tax rate on taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

What are the annual renewal costs for an Architecture Consultancy business in Dubai Mainland?

The annual licence renewal for an Architecture Consultancy Dubai DED company costs approximately AED 12,000, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my Dubai DED Architecture Consultancy licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from Dubai DED, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Mainland companies typically have the widest choice of banking partners. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

Architecture Consultancy in Dubai Mainland for British nationals

MainlandProfessionalRegulated Activity

Architecture Consultancy in Dubai DED

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Architecture Consultancy

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

The licensing process at Dubai DED has been streamlined significantly, with most professional licences processed within 3 business days. With the recent changes to UAE commercial law, 100% foreign ownership is now available for most mainland activities. The base licence fee is approximately AED 12,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your architecture consultancy business in Dubai Mainland. 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 Dubai DED for Architecture Consultancy?

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

The jurisdiction offers trade anywhere in the uae, which is particularly valuable for architecture consultancy operations. Additionally, government contracts eligibility ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. Operating on the mainland allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions, and you can bid on government contracts — a significant advantage over free zone entities. Office solutions start from AED 8,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. No geographic restrictions further enhances the appeal of Dubai DED for architecture consultancy professionals. Furthermore, wider business scope positions your architecture consultancy business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Dubai DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Trade anywhere in the UAE

Government contracts eligibility

No geographic restrictions

Wider business scope

Direct customer access

Visa Requirements for British Nationals

For British entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your architecture consultancy business in Dubai DED.

Banking for British Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your architecture consultancy company in Dubai DED: British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. UK-regulated banking history is viewed favourably by UAE banks. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand British business structures.

Document Attestation for British Nationals

Document attestation for British nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in United Kingdom, (2) Attestation by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), (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 United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Completed application form for trade licence

5Passport-sized photographs with white background

6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

8Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality

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	12,000
Visa Package (per visa)	4,500
Ejari Office	15,000
Co-Working	8,000
Private Office	30,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 31,500

* 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 Dubai DED licence options for British nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United Kingdom through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

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

Trade Licence Issued

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

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

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. Since the UAE's 2020 Commercial Companies Law amendment, British nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including architecture consultancy.

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