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

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

How long does it take for a Lebanese citizen to set up a interior 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 a foreigner own 100% of a Interior Design company in Dubai Mainland?

Yes, following the recent amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for most mainland activities, including interior design. Previously, a local sponsor holding 51% was required, but this is no longer the case.

Can I get a residence visa with my Interior Design licence from Dubai DED?

Yes, your interior design licence from Dubai DED entitles you to apply for residence visas. The number of visas depends on your office space size — larger offices qualify for more visas. Each visa costs approximately AED 4,500.

How much does it cost to set up an Interior Design business in Dubai Mainland?

The total setup cost for an Interior 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 Interior Design licence in Dubai DED?

The typical processing time for a interior 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.

What are the tax implications for an Interior Design business in Dubai Mainland?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Mainland companies are subject to the standard 9% corporate tax rate on taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Interior Design in Dubai Mainland for Lebanese nationals

MainlandProfessional

Interior Design in Dubai DED

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Interior Design

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

The licensing process at Dubai DED has been streamlined significantly, with most professional licences processed within 3 business days. With the recent changes to UAE commercial law, 100% foreign ownership is now available for most mainland activities. 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 Mainland. 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 Dubai DED for Interior Design?

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

The jurisdiction offers trade anywhere in the uae, which is particularly valuable for interior 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 interior design professionals. Furthermore, wider business scope positions your interior 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 Lebanese nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Lebanese business community.

Trade anywhere in the UAE

Government contracts eligibility

No geographic restrictions

Wider business scope

Direct customer access

Visa Requirements for Lebanese Nationals

For Lebanese entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Lebanese nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your interior design business in Dubai DED.

Banking for Lebanese Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your interior design company in Dubai DED: Lebanese entrepreneurs have a strong reputation in UAE business circles. Many have established successful businesses across various sectors. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Lebanese business structures.

Document Attestation for Lebanese Nationals

Document attestation for Lebanese nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Lebanon, (2) Attestation by Lebanese Ministry of Foreign 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 Lebanon passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Completed application form for trade licence

5Detailed business plan or activity description

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

7Passport-sized photographs with white background

8Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

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 interior design business plan and the best Dubai DED licence options for Lebanese nationals.

Document Preparation

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

Licence Application

Submit the interior 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. Lebanese nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Lebanese entrepreneurs have a strong reputation in UAE business circles.

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. Since the UAE's 2020 Commercial Companies Law amendment, Lebanese nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including interior design.

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