What documents does an Australian national need to start a graphic design business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Australia passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Australia, attested documents via Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and a business plan for your graphic design venture.

How long does it take for an Australian citizen to set up a graphic design company in DHCC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 10–13 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 20–30 business days.

What are the tax implications for a Graphic Design business in Dubai Healthcare City?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in DHCC 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.

What documents do I need to set up a Graphic Design business in DHCC?

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.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Graphic Design company in DHCC?

Most of the setup process for a graphic design business in DHCC 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.

How much does it cost to set up a Graphic Design business in Dubai Healthcare City?

The total setup cost for a Graphic Design business in DHCC starts from approximately AED 30,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 6,000 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

How long does it take to get a Graphic Design licence in DHCC?

The typical processing time for a graphic design licence at DHCC is 10 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.

Graphic Design in Dubai Healthcare City for Australian nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Graphic Design in DHCC

Starting From

AED 30,000

Setup Time

10 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Graphic Design

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

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Graphic Design business will benefit from dedicated healthcare free zone and regulated clinical environment. The DHCC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 30,000.

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

Why DHCC for Graphic Design?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Healthcare City continues to attract graphic design entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers dedicated healthcare free zone, which is particularly valuable for graphic design operations. Additionally, regulated clinical environment 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 35,000 per year for a office, 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. Medical professionals network further enhances the appeal of DHCC for graphic design professionals. Furthermore, international healthcare standards positions your graphic design business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DHCC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Dedicated healthcare free zone

Regulated clinical environment

Medical professionals network

International healthcare standards

Integrated healthcare ecosystem

Visa Requirements for Australian Nationals

Australian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your graphic design licence is issued by DHCC, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 15–22 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Australian Business Owners

Australian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Commonwealth banking standards are recognised by UAE banks. For your graphic design business in DHCC, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Australian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Australia-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Australian Nationals

Australian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for graphic design), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to DHCC.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Australia passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Signed application form from DHCC authority

7Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

8Passport-sized photographs with white background

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	30,000
Visa Package (per visa)	6,000
Clinic Space	50,000
Office	35,000
Private Office	60,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 86,000

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

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your graphic design business plan and the best DHCC licence options for Australian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Australia through Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the graphic design licence application to DHCC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DHCC trade licence within 10–13 business days.

Visa Processing

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

Bank Account

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

Start Operations

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

Total estimated time: 10 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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