What documents does a Canadian national need to start a general contracting business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Canada passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Canada, attested documents via Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication, and a business plan for your general contracting venture.

How long does it take for a Canadian citizen to set up a general contracting company in DIFC?

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.

Can I get a residence visa with my General Contracting licence from DIFC?

Yes, your general contracting licence from DIFC entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 6 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,500.

What documents do I need to set up a General Contracting business in DIFC?

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. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by Dubai Municipality. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my DIFC General Contracting licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from DIFC, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

How long does it take to get a General Contracting licence in DIFC?

The typical processing time for a general contracting licence at DIFC is 5 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.

How much does it cost to set up a General Contracting business in Dubai International Financial Centre?

The total setup cost for a General Contracting business in DIFC starts from approximately AED 12,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 5,500 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

General Contracting in Dubai International Financial Centre for Canadian nationals

Free ZoneConstructionRegulated Activity

General Contracting in DIFC

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Dubai

About General Contracting

As a Canadian national looking to establish a General Contracting business in Dubai International Financial Centre, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Canada has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Canadian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your General Contracting business will benefit from independent legal framework (common law) and own courts and arbitration centre. The DIFC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 12,000.

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

Why DIFC for General Contracting?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai International Financial Centre continues to attract general contracting entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers independent legal framework (common law), which is particularly valuable for general contracting operations. Additionally, own courts and arbitration centre 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 18,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 6 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Premier financial hub further enhances the appeal of DIFC for general contracting professionals. Furthermore, zero tax for 50 years positions your general contracting business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DIFC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established construction enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Independent legal framework (common law)

Own courts and arbitration centre

Premier financial hub

Zero tax for 50 years

Access to regional capital markets

Visa Requirements for Canadian Nationals

For Canadian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Canadian 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 general contracting business in DIFC.

Banking for Canadian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your general contracting company in DIFC: Canadian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong Canadian-UAE relations facilitate banking processes. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Canadian business structures.

Document Attestation for Canadian Nationals

Document attestation for Canadian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Canada, (2) Attestation by Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to general contracting businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Canada passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Detailed business plan or activity description

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality

7Passport-sized photographs with white background

8Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

Regulatory Note: General Contracting 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)	5,500
Flexi Desk	18,000
Shared Office	35,000
Private Office	80,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 35,500

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

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your general contracting business plan and the best DIFC licence options for Canadian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Canada through Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the general contracting licence application to DIFC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

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

Visa Processing

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

Bank Account

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

Start Operations

Your general contracting 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. DIFC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Canadian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

General Contracting 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