Fashion Design in Dubai Mainland
MainlandProfessional

Fashion Design in Dubai DED

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Fashion Design

Entrepreneurs seeking to start a Fashion Design business in the UAE will find Dubai Mainland to be one of the most attractive jurisdictions, thanks to its strategic location and comprehensive support services.

Operating from Dubai Mainland gives your Fashion Design business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, private office and excellent connectivity. The Fashion Design activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up fashion design businesses in Dubai 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 Dubai DED for Fashion Design?

Choosing Dubai DED for your fashion design business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers trade anywhere in the uae, which is particularly valuable for fashion design 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 fashion design professionals. Furthermore, wider business scope positions your fashion design 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.

Trade anywhere in the UAE
Government contracts eligibility
No geographic restrictions
Wider business scope
Direct customer access

Requirements & Documents

1Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development
2Completed application form for trade licence
3Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
4Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
7Detailed business plan or activity description
8Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee12,000
Visa Package (per visa)4,500
Ejari Office15,000
Co-Working8,000
Private Office30,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 31,500

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

Setup Timeline

1

Initial Consultation

Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your fashion design business objectives, optimal licence structure, and Dubai DED as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.

2

Choose Your Company Name

Select your company name and submit it for approval. The DED naming guidelines require the name to reflect the legal structure and activity. Reserved and restricted words require additional approvals. IBA handles the name reservation process.

3

Prepare & Submit Documents

Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. As a non-regulated activity, the documentation requirements are straightforward. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.

4

Obtain Trade Licence

Following DED approval, your Dubai mainland trade licence is issued within 3 business days. The licence authorises you to conduct fashion design activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 12,000.

5

Apply for Residence Visa

Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. The number of visas depends on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 4,500. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.

6

Open Corporate Bank Account

With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.

7

Start Operations

With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your fashion design business in Dubai Mainland is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.

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, 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.

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for fashion design in Dubai DED:

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your fashion design in Dubai DED? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionDubai DED
Typemainland
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 12,000
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code74120

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.

Ready to Start Your Fashion Design?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your fashion design in Dubai DED. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.