Gym & Fitness in DIC
Starting From
AED 15,000
Setup Time
5 Business Days
Visa Quota
5 Visas
Location
Dubai
About Gym & Fitness
Dubai Internet City in Dubai provides an excellent environment for launching a Gym & Fitness venture, combining world-class infrastructure with a business-friendly regulatory framework.
The licensing process at DIC has been streamlined significantly, with most services licences processed within 5 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 15,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.
At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your gym & fitness business in Dubai Internet City. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.
Why DIC for Gym & Fitness?
Dubai Internet City is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for services businesses, and for good reason.
The jurisdiction offers premier it and tech hub, which is particularly valuable for gym & fitness operations. Additionally, home to global tech companies 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 12,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 5 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Strategic Media City cluster further enhances the appeal of DIC for gym & fitness professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your gym & fitness business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DIC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established services enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.
Requirements & Documents
Regulatory Note: Gym & Fitness is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Dubai Sports Council is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| License Fee | 15,000 |
| Visa Package (per visa) | 5,000 |
| Flexi Desk | 12,000 |
| Shared Office | 20,000 |
| Private Office | 45,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 32,000 |
* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.
Setup Timeline
Initial Consultation
Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your gym & fitness business objectives, optimal licence structure, and DIC as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.
Choose Your Company Name
Select your company name and submit it for approval. DIC has specific naming guidelines — the name must not conflict with existing registrations and should reflect your business activity. IBA handles the name reservation process.
Prepare & Submit Documents
Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. For gym & fitness, additional documents including professional qualifications and Dubai Sports Council approvals are required. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.
Obtain Trade Licence
Your DIC trade licence is issued within 5 business days of document submission. The licence authorises you to conduct gym & fitness activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 15,000.
Apply for Residence Visa
Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Your DIC licence includes 5 visa allocation. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,000. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.
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.
Start Operations
With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your gym & fitness business in Dubai Internet City is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.
Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
The typical processing time for a gym & fitness licence at DIC is 5 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring Dubai Sports Council approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.
Gym & Fitness in Other Jurisdictions
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Ready to set up your gym & fitness in DIC? Our team is here to help.
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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.
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