What documents does an American national need to start a furniture trading 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 furniture trading venture.

How long does it take for an American citizen to set up a furniture trading 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.

How much does it cost to set up a Furniture Trading business in Dubai Mainland?

The total setup cost for a Furniture Trading business in Dubai DED starts from approximately AED 12,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 4,500 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Furniture Trading 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 furniture trading. Previously, a local sponsor holding 51% was required, but this is no longer the case.

What business activities can I include on my Dubai DED licence?

Your Dubai DED licence can include furniture trading as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Mainland licences can include multiple activities, provided they fall within the same licence category (professional, commercial, or industrial). IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

What documents do I need to set up a Furniture Trading business in Dubai DED?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my Dubai DED Furniture Trading 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.

Furniture Trading in Dubai Mainland for American nationals

MainlandCommercial

Furniture Trading in Dubai DED

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Furniture Trading

The UAE continues to attract American entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Dubai DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for furniture trading operations. Growing American business community (~50,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Dubai Mainland gives your Furniture Trading business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, private office and excellent connectivity. The Furniture Trading 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 furniture trading 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 Furniture Trading?

Choosing Dubai DED for your furniture trading 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 furniture trading 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 furniture trading professionals. Furthermore, wider business scope positions your furniture trading 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 commercial 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.

Trade anywhere in the UAE

Government contracts eligibility

No geographic restrictions

Wider business scope

Direct customer access

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 furniture trading business in Dubai DED.

Banking for American Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your furniture trading company in Dubai DED: 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 furniture trading 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)

5Completed application form for trade licence

6No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable

7Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

8Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

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 furniture trading business plan and the best Dubai DED 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 furniture trading 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. 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 furniture trading 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, American nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including furniture trading.

Furniture Trading 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