Optical Shop in Dubai Mainland for American nationals
MainlandHealthcareRegulated Activity

Optical Shop in Dubai DED

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Optical Shop

The UAE continues to attract American entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Dubai DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for optical shop operations. Growing American business community (~50,000), 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 Optical Shop business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from DHA before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up optical shop 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 Optical Shop?

Choosing Dubai DED for your optical shop 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 optical shop 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 optical shop professionals. Furthermore, wider business scope positions your optical shop 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 healthcare enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Trade anywhere in the UAE
Government contracts eligibility
No geographic restrictions
Wider business scope
Direct customer access

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. Once your optical shop 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 American Business Owners

US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. For your optical shop business in Dubai DED, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving American business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United States-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

American nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through US Department of State / Secretary of State. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for optical shop), 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 United States passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by US Department of State / Secretary of State
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
6Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development
7Completed application form for trade licence
8Relevant industry experience documentation

Regulatory Note: Optical Shop is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from DHA is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee12,000
Visa Package (per visa)4,500
Ejari Office15,000
Co-Working8,000
Private Office30,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 31,500

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

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your optical shop business plan and the best Dubai DED licence options for American nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the optical shop licence application to Dubai DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official Dubai DED trade licence within 3–6 business days.

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.

7

Start Operations

Your optical shop 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, American nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including optical shop.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your optical shop in Dubai DED? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionDubai DED
Typemainland
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 12,000
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code47170

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.

Ready to Start Your Optical Shop?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your optical shop in Dubai DED. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.