What documents does an Indian national need to start a interior design business in the UAE?

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

How long does it take for an Indian 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 much does it cost to set up an Interior Design business in Dubai Silicon Oasis?

The total setup cost for an Interior Design business in DSO 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 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 get a residence visa with my Interior Design licence from DSO?

Yes, your interior design licence from DSO entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 4 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 4,500.

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.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Interior Design company in Dubai Silicon Oasis?

Yes, DSO allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

Interior Design in Dubai Silicon Oasis for Indian 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

As an Indian national looking to establish an Interior Design business in Dubai Silicon Oasis, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. India has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Indian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Interior Design business will benefit from technology-focused ecosystem and integrated tech park. The DSO 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 interior design setup in DSO. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why DSO for Interior Design?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Silicon Oasis continues to attract interior design entrepreneurs from around the world.

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

Technology-focused ecosystem

Integrated tech park

100% foreign ownership

SmartCity infrastructure

Innovation facilities

Visa Requirements for Indian Nationals

For Indian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days. For business setup, a proper residence visa is required. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your interior design business in DSO.

Banking for Indian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your interior design company in DSO: Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks. Many banks have dedicated Indian business desks. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Indian business structures.

Document Attestation for Indian Nationals

Document attestation for Indian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in India, (2) Attestation by MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to interior design businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid India passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by MEA (Ministry of External Affairs)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

5Passport-sized photographs with white background

6Detailed business plan or activity description

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

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 Indian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from India through MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) 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. Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks.

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 Indian 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