Pet Shop in International Free Zone Authority for American nationals
Free ZoneCommercialRegulated Activity

Pet Shop in IFZA

Starting From

AED 11,750

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Pet Shop

The UAE continues to attract American entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and IFZA is one of the most popular jurisdictions for pet 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 International Free Zone Authority gives your Pet Shop business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from Dubai Municipality before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up pet shop businesses in International Free Zone Authority 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 IFZA for Pet Shop?

Choosing IFZA for your pet shop business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers most affordable dubai free zone, which is particularly valuable for pet shop operations. Additionally, fast 48-hour setup 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 3,500 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 3 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. 100% foreign ownership further enhances the appeal of IFZA for pet shop professionals. Furthermore, no currency restrictions positions your pet shop business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, IFZA remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established commercial 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.

Most affordable Dubai free zone
Fast 48-hour setup
100% foreign ownership
No currency restrictions
Multiple activities on one licence

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

For American entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your pet shop business in IFZA.

Banking for American Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your pet shop company in IFZA: US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand American business structures.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

Document attestation for American nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in United States, (2) Attestation by US Department of State / Secretary of State, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to pet shop businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

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
4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
5Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
6Detailed business plan or activity description
7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
8No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable

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

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee11,750
Visa Package (per visa)3,500
Flexi Desk3,500
Shared Office8,000
Private Office18,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 18,750

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

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your pet shop business plan and the best IFZA 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 pet shop licence application to IFZA. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official IFZA trade licence within 2–5 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 pet shop business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 2 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. IFZA allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including American nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your pet shop in IFZA? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionIFZA
TypeFree Zone
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 11,750
Setup Time2 days
Visa Quota3
Activity Code46804

Official Source

www.ifza.com

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 Pet Shop?

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