What documents does an Iranian national need to start a physiotherapy business in the UAE?

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

How long does it take for an Iranian citizen to set up a physiotherapy 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.

Can I get a residence visa with my Physiotherapy licence from DSO?

Yes, your physiotherapy 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.

What documents do I need to set up a Physiotherapy business in DSO?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by DHA. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

What business activities can I include on my DSO licence?

Your DSO licence can include physiotherapy as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Most free zones allow multiple activities on a single licence, though some may charge a small fee for additional activities. IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

Is Dubai Silicon Oasis good for physiotherapy start-ups?

DSO is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering technology-focused ecosystem and integrated tech park. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 6,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

How long does it take to get a Physiotherapy licence in DSO?

The typical processing time for a physiotherapy licence at DSO is 3 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring DHA approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

Physiotherapy in Dubai Silicon Oasis for Iranian nationals

Free ZoneHealthcareRegulated Activity

Physiotherapy in DSO

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

4 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Physiotherapy

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

The licensing process at DSO has been streamlined significantly, with most healthcare licences processed within 3 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. 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 physiotherapy business in Dubai Silicon Oasis. 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 DSO for Physiotherapy?

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

The jurisdiction offers technology-focused ecosystem, which is particularly valuable for physiotherapy 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 physiotherapy professionals. Furthermore, smartcity infrastructure positions your physiotherapy 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 healthcare enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Technology-focused ecosystem

Integrated tech park

100% foreign ownership

SmartCity infrastructure

Innovation facilities

Visa Requirements for Iranian Nationals

Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. Once your physiotherapy licence is issued by DSO, 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 Iranian Business Owners

Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements. IBA assists with navigating compliance procedures for successful account opening. For your physiotherapy business in DSO, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Iranian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Iran-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Iranian Nationals

Iranian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for physiotherapy), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to DSO.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Iran passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Detailed business plan or activity description

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Signed application form from DSO authority

7Relevant industry experience documentation

8Passport-sized photographs with white background

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

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 physiotherapy business plan and the best DSO licence options for Iranian nationals.

Document Preparation

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

Licence Application

Submit the physiotherapy 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. Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements.

Start Operations

Your physiotherapy 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 Iranian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Physiotherapy in Other Jurisdictions

DIC

From AED 15,000

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750

DSO

From AED 12,000