What documents does an Australian national need to start a interior 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 interior design venture.

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

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 long does it take to get a Interior Design licence in DSO?

The typical processing time for a interior design licence at DSO 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.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my DSO Interior Design licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from DSO, 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.

What business activities can I include on my DSO licence?

Your DSO licence can include interior design as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Most free zones allow multiple activities on a single licence, though some may charge a small fee for additional activities. IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

What are the annual renewal costs for an Interior Design business in Dubai Silicon Oasis?

The annual licence renewal for an Interior Design DSO company costs approximately AED 12,000, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

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

Most of the setup process for a interior design business in DSO 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.

Interior Design in Dubai Silicon Oasis for Australian nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Interior Design in DSO

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

4 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Interior Design

Setting up an Interior Design business in Dubai Silicon Oasis as an Australian citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Australia-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Australian business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at DSO has been streamlined significantly, with most professional licences processed within 3 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 12,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your interior design business in Dubai Silicon Oasis. 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 DSO for Interior Design?

Dubai Silicon Oasis is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for professional businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers technology-focused ecosystem, which is particularly valuable for interior design operations. Additionally, integrated tech park 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 6,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 4 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. 100% foreign ownership further enhances the appeal of DSO for interior design professionals. Furthermore, smartcity infrastructure positions your interior design business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DSO 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.

Technology-focused ecosystem

Integrated tech park

100% foreign ownership

SmartCity infrastructure

Innovation facilities

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 interior design licence is issued by DSO, 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 Australian Business Owners

Australian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Commonwealth banking standards are recognised by UAE banks. For your interior design business in DSO, 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 interior design), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to DSO.

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

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Signed application form from DSO authority

6Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

8Completed application form for trade licence

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	12,000
Visa Package (per visa)	4,500
Flexi Desk	6,000
Shared Office	12,000
Private Office	25,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 22,500

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

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your interior design business plan and the best DSO 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 interior design licence application to DSO. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DSO trade licence within 3–6 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 interior 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. DSO allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Australian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Interior 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