What documents does an Indian national need to start a public relations business in the UAE?

You will need a valid India passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in India, attested documents via MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), and a business plan for your public relations venture.

How long does it take for an Indian citizen to set up a public relations company in DMC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 5–8 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 15–25 business days.

What are the tax implications for a Public Relations business in Dubai Media City?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in DMC may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my DMC Public Relations licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from DMC, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Public Relations company in Dubai Media City?

Yes, DMC allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

Can I get a residence visa with my Public Relations licence from DMC?

Yes, your public relations licence from DMC entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 5 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,000.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Public Relations company in DMC?

Most of the setup process for a public relations business in DMC can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

Public Relations in Dubai Media City for Indian nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Public Relations in DMC

Starting From

AED 15,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

5 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Public Relations

As an Indian national looking to establish a Public Relations business in Dubai Media City, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. India has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Indian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Public Relations business will benefit from middle east media hub and home to international media houses. The DMC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 15,000.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your public relations setup in DMC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why DMC for Public Relations?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Media City continues to attract public relations entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers middle east media hub, which is particularly valuable for public relations operations. Additionally, home to international media houses 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 12,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 5 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Full media production ecosystem further enhances the appeal of DMC for public relations professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your public relations business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DMC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Middle East media hub

Home to international media houses

Full media production ecosystem

100% foreign ownership

Creative industry networking

Visa Requirements for Indian Nationals

For Indian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days. For business setup, a proper residence visa is required. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your public relations business in DMC.

Banking for Indian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your public relations company in DMC: Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks. Many banks have dedicated Indian business desks. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Indian business structures.

Document Attestation for Indian Nationals

Document attestation for Indian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in India, (2) Attestation by MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to public relations businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid India passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by MEA (Ministry of External Affairs)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

5Signed application form from DMC authority

6Completed application form for trade licence

7Detailed business plan or activity description

8Passport-sized photographs with white background

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	15,000
Visa Package (per visa)	5,000
Flexi Desk	12,000
Shared Office	20,000
Private Office	45,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 32,000

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

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your public relations business plan and the best DMC licence options for Indian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from India through MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the public relations licence application to DMC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DMC trade licence within 5–8 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks.

Start Operations

Your public relations business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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