Barbershop in Abu Dhabi Mainland for British nationals
MainlandServicesRegulated Activity

Barbershop in Abu Dhabi DED

Starting From

AED 10,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Barbershop

The UAE continues to attract British entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Abu Dhabi DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for barbershop operations. One of the largest Western expatriate communities (~120,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Abu Dhabi Mainland gives your Barbershop business access to Abu Dhabi's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from Dubai Municipality before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up barbershop businesses in Abu Dhabi Mainland since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why Abu Dhabi DED for Barbershop?

Choosing Abu Dhabi DED for your barbershop business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers capital city strategic advantage, which is particularly valuable for barbershop operations. Additionally, government project access 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 6,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Trade anywhere in UAE further enhances the appeal of Abu Dhabi DED for barbershop professionals. Furthermore, growing economic diversification positions your barbershop business for long-term success in the region. With Abu Dhabi continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Abu Dhabi DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established services enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Capital city strategic advantage
Government project access
Trade anywhere in UAE
Growing economic diversification
100% foreign ownership

Visa Requirements for British Nationals

British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your barbershop licence is issued by Abu Dhabi DED, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 8–15 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for British Business Owners

British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. UK-regulated banking history is viewed favourably by UAE banks. For your barbershop business in Abu Dhabi DED, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving British business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United Kingdom-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for British Nationals

British nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for barbershop), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to Abu Dhabi DED.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
5Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
6Passport-sized photographs with white background
7Relevant industry experience documentation
8Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality

Regulatory Note: Barbershop 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

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee10,000
Visa Package (per visa)4,000
Ejari Office12,000
Co-Working6,000
Private Office25,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 26,000

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

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your barbershop business plan and the best Abu Dhabi DED licence options for British nationals.

2

Document Preparation

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

3

Licence Application

Submit the barbershop licence application to Abu Dhabi DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

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

5

Visa Processing

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

6

Bank Account

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

7

Start Operations

Your barbershop 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 barbershop.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your barbershop in Abu Dhabi DED? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionAbu Dhabi DED
Typemainland
EmirateAbu Dhabi
License FeeAED 10,000
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code96022

Official Source

added.gov.ae

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

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