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

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

How long does it take for a Pakistani citizen to set up a graphic design 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.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my Dubai DED Graphic Design 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.

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

The total setup cost for a Graphic Design 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.

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

The typical processing time for a graphic design licence at Dubai DED is 3 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.

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

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

What documents do I need to set up a Graphic Design 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.

Graphic Design in Dubai Mainland for Pakistani nationals

MainlandProfessional

Graphic Design in Dubai DED

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Graphic Design

The UAE continues to attract Pakistani entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Dubai DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for graphic design operations. Second-largest expatriate community in the UAE (~1.5 million), 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 Graphic 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 Graphic 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 graphic 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 Graphic Design?

Choosing Dubai DED for your graphic 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 graphic 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 graphic design professionals. Furthermore, wider business scope positions your graphic 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.

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

Trade anywhere in the UAE

Government contracts eligibility

No geographic restrictions

Wider business scope

Direct customer access

Visa Requirements for Pakistani Nationals

Pakistani nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Business visa or residence visa can be sponsored by the company once incorporated. Once your graphic design licence is issued by Dubai DED, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 8–15 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Pakistani Business Owners

Pakistani entrepreneurs can open corporate bank accounts with standard documentation. Some banks may require additional proof of business activity. For your graphic design business in Dubai DED, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Pakistani business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Pakistan-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Pakistani Nationals

Pakistani nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan. 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 Dubai DED.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Pakistan passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

6Passport-sized photographs with white background

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

8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

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 graphic design business plan and the best Dubai DED licence options for Pakistani nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Pakistan through Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the graphic design 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. Pakistani nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Pakistani entrepreneurs can open corporate bank accounts with standard documentation.

Start Operations

Your graphic design 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, Pakistani nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including graphic design.

Graphic Design 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