Physiotherapy in Abu Dhabi Mainland
MainlandHealthcareRegulated Activity

Physiotherapy in Abu Dhabi DED

Starting From

AED 10,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Physiotherapy

Establishing a Physiotherapy business in Abu Dhabi Mainland positions you at the heart of Abu Dhabi's dynamic commercial landscape, with access to a market of over 9 million consumers.

The licensing process at Abu Dhabi DED has been streamlined significantly, with most healthcare 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 10,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your physiotherapy business in Abu Dhabi 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 Abu Dhabi DED for Physiotherapy?

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

The jurisdiction offers capital city strategic advantage, which is particularly valuable for physiotherapy operations. Additionally, government project access 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 6,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Trade anywhere in UAE further enhances the appeal of Abu Dhabi DED for physiotherapy professionals. Furthermore, growing economic diversification positions your physiotherapy business for long-term success in the region. With Abu Dhabi continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Abu Dhabi DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established healthcare enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

Capital city strategic advantage
Government project access
Trade anywhere in UAE
Growing economic diversification
100% foreign ownership

Requirements & Documents

1Completed application form for trade licence
2Professional qualification certificates or approvals from DHA
3Detailed business plan or activity description
4Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address
5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
6Relevant industry experience documentation
7Passport-sized photographs with white background
8Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

Regulatory Note: Physiotherapy 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 Fee10,000
Visa Package (per visa)4,000
Ejari Office12,000
Co-Working6,000
Private Office25,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 26,000

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

Setup Timeline

1

Initial Consultation

Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your physiotherapy business objectives, optimal licence structure, and Abu Dhabi DED as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.

2

Choose Your Company Name

Select your company name and submit it for approval. The DED naming guidelines require the name to reflect the legal structure and activity. Reserved and restricted words require additional approvals. IBA handles the name reservation process.

3

Prepare & Submit Documents

Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. For physiotherapy, additional documents including professional qualifications and DHA approvals are required. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.

4

Obtain Trade Licence

Following DED approval, your Abu Dhabi mainland trade licence is issued within 3 business days. The licence authorises you to conduct physiotherapy activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 10,000.

5

Apply for Residence Visa

Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. The number of visas depends on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 4,000. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.

6

Open Corporate Bank Account

With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.

7

Start Operations

With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your physiotherapy business in Abu Dhabi Mainland is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.

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

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for physiotherapy in Abu Dhabi DED:

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your physiotherapy in Abu Dhabi DED? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionAbu Dhabi DED
Typemainland
EmirateAbu Dhabi
License FeeAED 10,000
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code86900

Official Source

added.gov.ae

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 Physiotherapy?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your physiotherapy in Abu Dhabi DED. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.