Spa & Wellness in Abu Dhabi Mainland
MainlandServicesRegulated Activity

Spa & Wellness in Abu Dhabi DED

Starting From

AED 10,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Spa & Wellness

Abu Dhabi Mainland in Abu Dhabi provides an excellent environment for launching a Spa & Wellness venture, combining world-class infrastructure with a business-friendly regulatory framework.

The licensing process at Abu Dhabi DED has been streamlined significantly, with most services 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 spa & wellness 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 Spa & Wellness?

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

The jurisdiction offers capital city strategic advantage, which is particularly valuable for spa & wellness 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 spa & wellness professionals. Furthermore, growing economic diversification positions your spa & wellness 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 services 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

1Detailed business plan or activity description
2Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
3Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
4Completed application form for trade licence
5Passport-sized photographs with white background
6Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
7Relevant industry experience documentation
8Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

Regulatory Note: Spa & Wellness 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 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 spa & wellness 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 spa & wellness, additional documents including professional qualifications and Dubai Municipality 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 spa & wellness 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 spa & wellness 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, your spa & wellness licence from Abu Dhabi DED entitles you to apply for residence visas. The number of visas depends on your office space size — larger offices qualify for more visas. Each visa costs approximately AED 4,000.

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for spa & wellness in Abu Dhabi DED:

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your spa & wellness 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 Code96040

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 Spa & Wellness?

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