What documents does an American national need to start a barbershop business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United States, attested documents via US Department of State / Secretary of State, and a business plan for your barbershop venture.

How long does it take for an American citizen to set up a barbershop company in DIC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 5–8 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 15–25 business days.

How much does it cost to set up a Barbershop business in Dubai Internet City?

The total setup cost for a Barbershop business in DIC starts from approximately AED 15,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 5,000 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

What are the tax implications for a Barbershop business in Dubai Internet City?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in DIC may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Can I get a residence visa with my Barbershop licence from DIC?

Yes, your barbershop licence from DIC entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 5 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,000.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Barbershop company in DIC?

Most of the setup process for a barbershop business in DIC 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 a foreigner own 100% of a Barbershop company in Dubai Internet City?

Yes, DIC 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.

Barbershop in Dubai Internet City for American nationals

Free ZoneServicesRegulated Activity

Barbershop in DIC

Starting From

AED 15,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

5 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Barbershop

As an American national looking to establish a Barbershop business in Dubai Internet City, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. United States has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of American professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Barbershop business will benefit from premier it and tech hub and home to global tech companies. The DIC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 15,000.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your barbershop setup in DIC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why DIC for Barbershop?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Internet City continues to attract barbershop entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers premier it and tech hub, which is particularly valuable for barbershop operations. Additionally, home to global tech companies 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 12,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 5 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Strategic Media City cluster further enhances the appeal of DIC for barbershop professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your barbershop business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DIC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established services enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Premier IT and tech hub

Home to global tech companies

Strategic Media City cluster

100% foreign ownership

Tech ecosystem networking

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

For American entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your barbershop business in DIC.

Banking for American Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your barbershop company in DIC: US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand American business structures.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

Document attestation for American nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in United States, (2) Attestation by US Department of State / Secretary of State, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to barbershop businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by US Department of State / Secretary of State

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

5Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality

6Detailed business plan or activity description

7Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

8Completed application form for trade licence

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

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	15,000
Visa Package (per visa)	5,000
Flexi Desk	12,000
Shared Office	20,000
Private Office	45,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 32,000

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

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your barbershop business plan and the best DIC licence options for American nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the barbershop licence application to DIC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DIC trade licence within 5–8 business days.

Visa Processing

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

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.

Start Operations

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

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Barbershop in Other Jurisdictions

DIC

From AED 15,000

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750

DSO

From AED 12,000