‘Low-cost’ and ‘Dubai’ don’t seem to go together at first glance. After all, the emirate is a technological marvel, more than deserving of its status as one of the world’s most prestigious business and tourist hubs.

But, in fact, plenty can be achieved out here on a budget. Over 90% of Dubai’s businesses are SMEs, with many bootstrapping their way to success. If you want to join them, keep reading to find out how to get up and running with a low-cost business idea. We’ll be looking at these areas:

• Advantages of starting a low-cost business in Dubai
• Steps to set up a low-cost business in Dubai
• Tips to minimise costs during the business setup process
• How Charles Ntumwa Services can help

When you’re ready to get started, get in touch with Charles Ntumwa Services for a personalised quote.

Advantages of starting a low-cost business in Dubai

Thanks to its time-tested processes and welcoming business environment, Dubai is one of the best places in the world to start a low-cost business. When you trade out here, you can take advantage of the emirate’s strategic location, business-friendly government policies, skilled workforce, great infrastructure and growing demand.

Strategic location and global connections

Dubai is well connected by land, sea and air to some of the world’s largest markets and leading business hubs.

Situated at the heart of the Middle East, the emirate is perfectly placed to trade with Europe, Asia and North Africa, while two international airports put two-thirds of the global population within eight hours of flying time.

Favourable government policies and tax structure

The UAE remains one of the few countries to levy 0% tax on corporate and personal income. VAT is also low at just 5%. Custom tax exemption and other advantages are also available to free zone companies.

On top of this, Dubai is home to numerous private and government-funded incubator, accelerator and funding initiatives designed to help businesses launch and grow.

Access to a skilled workforce and modern infrastructure

Dubai’s rulers have a long-held ambition to build the smartest city in the world. And, already ranking first in the Middle East and 18th globally in the recent Digital Cities Index, they are well on track to achieving this aim.

As well as world-leading infrastructure, the emirate also benefits from a large and highly skilled talent pool. The UAE’s workforce ranked first in the Global Skills Report 2022 which measures competence levels in key categories such as entrepreneurship, strategy, operations and management.

Growing demand for various services and products

Dubai’s growing international population and concerted effort to diversify its economy away from oil and gas are driving demand for a wide range of goods and services.

Hundreds of sectors are in ascendance out here across diverse industries, including retail, manufacturing, e-commerce, logistics, travel, technology, healthcare, hospitality and many more.

Steps to set up a low-cost business in Dubai

The first thing to do before embarking on the business formation process in Dubai is to get in touch with the team at Charles Ntumwa Services. After a short consultation to understand your business and its requirements, we’ll guide you through the following process.

Step 1: Outlining your business activities

First, you will need to clearly set out any business activities you wish to undertake. Your business activities can determine the type of license and setup that you require. So, it’s important to clearly lay out your plans at the very beginning of the process.

Step 2: Choose your company name

Next, you’ll need to choose your company name. At this stage, you will need to consider the UAE’s business naming conventions. Fortunately, there are not too many stipulations to keep in mind.

Your business name cannot be the same as one used by an existing business in the UAE. It should also not contain any blasphemous or offensive language or have any religious connotations.

Step 3: Apply for your trade license

With these decisions made, you are now ready to apply for your UAE trade license. The process will differ depending on your industry, the type of license you require and whether you choose to set up in the Dubai mainland or in a free zone.

In all cases, Charles Ntumwa Services will manage your application on your behalf.

Step 4: Applying for visas

You’ll also need a residency visa to live and work in the UAE. This application involves a medical examination, blood test and biometric scanning for your Emirates ID.

As the holder of a UAE visa, you can also sponsor the visas of dependants such as your family or employees. Once again, Charles Ntumwa Services can guide you through this process.

Step 5: Open a corporate bank account

Finally, you will need a corporate bank account to trade freely in the UAE. Charles Ntumwa Services will work with you at this stage to determine the bank most suited to your needs.

Tips to minimise costs during the business setup process

From starting small to outsourcing, there are plenty of ways to keep costs down when starting a business in the UAE. Here are a few of the most effective.

Research and compare different business setups

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to company formation in Dubai. There are many license types and jurisdictions to choose from out here, and the one that’s right for you will depend on the nature of your business.

Before you commit to any, be sure to research all available options to find the most effective way forward.

Utilise cost-effective marketing strategies

A good product counts for little if you struggle to get it in front of your target audience. But the good news is, marketing your offering doesn’t have to be expensive.

Start by building a social presence to engage directly with your market. Facebook and Instagram ads can also be a great way to reach a wide audience on a limited budget. Consider localising your advertising, too, to avoid wasting your budget.

Use shared or virtual office spaces

There are a few easy ways to keep office costs down when starting a business in Dubai. You could set up in a shared workspace and pay a monthly fee for the use of certain facilities such as high-speed broadband, desk space and phone or printing services.

Another option is to use a virtual office. This way, you can get a postal address, business telephone number, discounted meeting room hire, and other support services while retaining the flexibility of working from home.

Outsource non-core tasks

Outsourcing can be a quick and easy way to add skills to your business without the expense of taking on a new hire.

By delegating admin, finance, e-commerce or anything else that is not your area of expertise, you can get peace of mind that it is in safe hands, gaining more time to focus on what you’re good at.

Network with other entrepreneurs and business owners

Word of mouth is one of the best adverts for any business – and it’s often free. So, be sure to show up at Dubai’s many coffee mornings and industry get-togethers to build your reputation and grow your brand.

Networking events also offer unmissable opportunities to collaborate, cross-sell and potentially add value to your offering.

How Charles Ntumwa Services can help

Another simple way to avoid overspending when setting up a company in the UAE is to work with a local expert.

The team Charles Ntumwa Services can assist with all manner of services related to business setup in Dubai. And we’ll ensure a fast, affordable and smooth service to save you both time and money.

So, whether you need help with licenses, visas, bank accounts or any other business support service, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Visit Charles Ntumwa Services for more information and a personalised quote.

The post Low Cost Business Setup in Dubai [2025 Guide] appeared first on WWF.

Dubai has a long tradition of trading diverse goods across markets throughout the UAE and beyond. However, few others can match its rich history as a jewellery trader.

From humble beginnings to a multimillion-dollar industry, jewellery trading is thriving in this part of the world. This article looks at one of the most exciting markets in the Middle East, covering these key considerations:

• Jewellery business in the UAE – Overview
• Key players in the jewellery industry in Dubai
• Regulations and policies in the jewellery business in Dubai
• Jewellery license in Dubai – Step by step
• Cost of getting a jewellery license in Dubai, UAE
• Advantages of starting a jewellery business in Dubai
• How Charles Ntumwa Services can help

When you’re ready to start your business, get in touch with Charles Ntumwa Services for a personalised quote.

Jewellery business in the UAE – Overview

The jewellery industry in the UAE has many subsectors, from global gem and precious metal traders to retailers selling directly to consumers in the country’s souks and malls.

There is a huge range of jewellery on offer, too. Many retailers specialise in more affordable costume pieces, while others focus on the finest and most expensive creations. By the end of this year, it is predicted that the high-end luxury market will account for around 55% of all jewellery sales.

These various businesses contribute to a market estimated to be worth USD 0.4bn currently, with annual growth of 2.65% up to 2026.

Dubai’s jewellery businesses are of economic and cultural significance. Gold and jewellery account for around 20% of the UAE’s non-oil exports, while between 20% and 40% of global gold stock passes through the country every year.

In the early 1900s, Dubai’s jewellery markets were little more than a few ramshackle stalls by the water’s edge. By the 1940s, traders were arriving from India and Iran, while the discovery of oil in the 1970s increased the buying power of traders in the region.

More recently, Dubai Gold Souk has grown rapidly from 400 square metres of glistening alleyways to a vast trading place covering over four square kilometres.

Key players in the jewellery industry in Dubai

The UAE is home to numerous jewellery businesses, from independent boutiques to established local and international names.

Maveroc is a UAE-based brand that is fast growing a reputation beyond our shores thanks to its colourful mix-and-match pieces. Another homegrown brand is Mystique, which specialises in fine diamonds and precious gemstones.

However, much more of the industry’s market share is held by international players. Cartier, De Beers, Damiani and Tiffany all have a strong presence here.

Regulations and policies in the jewellery business in Dubai

In line with international standards, the UAE jewellery industry is very strictly regulated. Any business wishing to refine, import or trade in gold must adhere to the standards of the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA).

ESMA rules cover everything from the calibration of weighing scales used for gold and gems to the correct way to display, label and tag jewellery. All businesses in the UAE must comply with regulations governing anti-money laundering and the funding of terrorism.

Import/Export regulations

Anyone wishing to import gold to the UAE must comply with the UAE Good Delivery Standard. Among other things, this regulation stipulates that import centres must follow a five-step framework when trading in gold with conflict-affected areas.

The five steps are establishing a governance framework, conducting a supply chain risk assessment, mitigating any identified risks, allowing for independent review and submitting periodic reports.

Taxation policies

The UAE does not levy any import duty or other tax on gold bars; however, other forms of jewellery are liable for VAT.

While there is no restriction on the amount that can be imported, VAT is applied on pieces with a value of more than AED 100,000, unless they are to be reexported.

Consumer protection laws

Under UAE law, consumers are granted the right to correct information at the time of purchase. They should also be informed of return policies on request. However, merchants have no obligation to accept returns once goods have been purchased.

Jewellery license in Dubai – Step by Step

Before establishing a jewellery business in the UAE, it’s always a good idea to consult with an expert company formation specialist. The team at Charles Ntumwa Services will take the time to get to know you and your business before guiding you through the steps below.

Step 1: Choose your business activities

The first step when starting a business in Dubai is clearly defining your intended activities. This is a straightforward process in this instance as jewellery businesses are covered under activity 513928, which permits “reselling adornment jewellery such as brooches, earnings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, which are made of gold, platinum, palladium, titanium, silver and gemstones.”

If you intend to do anything else, such as import gold and gems for trade, you will also need to list these activities on your license application.

Step 2: Choose your company name

The next step is to choose your company name. There are several considerations to keep in mind at this stage.

For example, your business name cannot be the same as one used by an existing business in the UAE. In addition, it should not contain any blasphemous or offensive language or have any religious connotations.

Step 3: Applying for your jewellery business license

Once you have taken care of the all-important early admin, you can now apply for your UAE jewellery license.

The process here, while straightforward, does require an expert eye, so it’s always a good idea to work with a UAE company formation specialist.

We can manage your application on your behalf, liaising with free zone and mainland authorities, depending on your chosen jurisdiction.

Step 4: Applying for visas

With your license application underway, you can begin the UAE residency visa process. This involves several steps, including entry permit application, a medical examination, biometric scanning and immigration stamping.

At this stage you can also secure any other visas that may be required, such as your family’s or employees’. Once again, Charles Ntumwa Services can guide you through this process.

Step 5: Open a corporate bank account

Finally, you will need a corporate bank account to trade freely in the UAE.

With so many local and international institutions on offer, it can be difficult to find the one that’s right for you. However, once we understand your needs, the team at Charles Ntumwa Services can advise on the bank most suited to your business.

Cost of getting a jewellery license in Dubai, UAE

The cost of starting a jewellery business will differ depending on the size and nature of your operation, as well as your chosen jurisdiction.

Whichever path you choose, you will first need to account for your UAE trade license, which costs in the region of AED 10,000 to AED 30,000.

On top of these costs, you’ll also need to budget for visas, premises, staff, equipment, and any additional permits that may be required to trade.

For a full and personalised breakdown of the costs involved in starting a UAE jewellery business, get in touch with the team at Charles Ntumwa Services.

Advantages of starting a jewellery business in Dubai

The main advantage of starting a jewellery business in the UAE is its large and demanding market. The trade-in gems and precious metals is huge out here, and there is always room in the market for new businesses that can offer something new or different.

Then there’s the UAE’s strategic location. Nestled in the Middle East between the vast markets of Asia, Africa and Europe, it is the perfect place to import jewellery materials wholesale.

Finally, the UAE’s company formation process has been honed over time to be fast, affordable and straightforward. With the right support, you can be trading within days.

How Charles Ntumwa Services can help

Charles Ntumwa Services are experts in all things relating to business setup in the UAE. Our dedicated team can help you tackle the complexities of establishing your jewellery company and make the whole process simple.

We’re on hand to manage everything for you, from licenses to visas and much more. Get in touch for more information and a personalised quote.

The post Jewellery Business Dubai [2025 Guide] appeared first on WWF.

Dubai has a long history as a global trading location. Before the days of oil, the emirate’s pearl divers sold their wares to merchants the world over. Today, there is very little that is not traded out here – from electronics and textiles to spices and precious stones.

This article looks at one of Dubai’s multimillion-dollar industries – garment trading. We’ll cover these areas:

• An overview of the garments business in Dubai
• Garments trading license in Dubai – Step by step
• Cost of starting a garments trading business in Dubai
• Advantages of starting a garments trading business in Dubai
• Is the clothing business profitable in Dubai?
• How can I sell my garments in Dubai?
• How Charles Ntumwa Services can help

An overview of the garments business in Dubai

The UAE exports garments, fabrics and apparel to over 50 countries across Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Such reach makes the UAE one of the world’s most significant garment trading hubs.

Pre-pandemic, UAE clothing and textile exports totalled over USD 4bn. With recovery now underway, total revenues in the apparel industry are expected to hit USD 3.7bn by the end of the year and increase to USD 5.3bn by 2027.

Such is the UAE’s appetite for clothing that the country’s per capita spending, at around the USD 500 mark, is the second highest in the Middle East.

Garments trading license in Dubai – Step by Step

Dubai is built for business. But, that said, company formation requires an expert eye. So, before starting a garment company, it’s always beneficial to speak to a local expert such as Charles Ntumwa Services.

Once we understand your business and its requirements, we’ll guide you through the entire process, handling applications and liaising with authorities on your behalf.

There are five basic steps to the process.

Step 1: Business activities

When starting a business in Dubai, you’ll need to be clear about the types of activities you wish to carry out. When starting a garment business, this may mean specifying whether you plan to import and export garments wholesale or sell directly to customers in the UAE.

Your business activities may dictate the most suitable license and setup type for your company, so once we understand your intentions, we can advise on the best way forward.

Step 2: Company name

Once you have outlined your activities, you’ll need to choose a name for your business. There are several stipulations to consider at this stage to ensure you adhere to UAE company naming conventions.

For example, your business name cannot be the same as one used by an existing business in the UAE. In addition, it should not contain any blasphemous or offensive language or have any religious connotations.

Step 3: Trade license

Next, we will help you apply for your garment business license. The process here differs slightly depending on whether you are setting up in a free zone or the mainland. If you choose the latter, you may also require additional permits and approvals before you can start trading.

Whatever your requirements, the team at Charles Ntumwa Services will manage this process for you, liaising with all government bodies and relevant authorities on your behalf.

Step 4: Visas

As the owner of a Dubai business, you are eligible for a visa that allows you to live and work in the UAE. At this stage, you can also secure any other visas that may be required, such as your family’s or employees’.

The visa process comprises four stages, from obtaining an entry permit and passing a medical examination to submitting your ID registration and getting your visa stamp from Immigration. Once again, Charles Ntumwa Services can guide you through this process.

Step 5: Corporate bank account

You will need a corporate bank account to make and take payments in the UAE. There are many institutions available, and once we understand your needs, we can advise on the most suited to your business.

Cost of starting a garments trading business in Dubai

The cost of starting a garment business depends on many factors, with the size, location and nature of your enterprise all playing a part.

For starters, a garment trading license costs in the region of AED 10,000 to AED 30,000. On top of this, you’ll also need to account for premises, staff, visas, equipment, materials, and more. If you plan to import goods from overseas, you will also have to pay customs tax unless you are set up in a free zone.

For a complete and personalised breakdown of the costs involved in starting your Dubai garment business, get in touch with the team at Charles Ntumwa Services.

Advantages of starting a garments trading business in Dubai

One of the biggest advantages of starting any trading business in Dubai is the UAE’s strategic location. At the heart of the Middle East, it is perfectly placed to trade with Africa, Asia, Europe and further afield.

With direct links via air and sea to industry hubs around the world, there can be few better places from which to import and export garments, textiles and much more.

On top of this, there is Dubai’s welcoming and supportive business environment. There are many private and state-supported accelerator schemes and incubators designed to help small businesses grow and succeed. What’s more, the UAE’s tax rate still stands at 0% on corporate and personal income, while VAT is low and flat at 5%.

When it comes to garment trading, demand is another key factor. Not only are UAE residents keen clothing consumers, but the country has also garnered a reputation as a key exporter of all manner of apparel and materials.

The company incorporation process is fast and straightforward when you set up with experts at Charles Ntumwa Services. Your dedicated contact will advise and guide you through the entire process, informing you as soon as you are ready to trade.

Is the clothing business profitable in Dubai?

It certainly can be. While revenues will differ depending on the types of clothing you are selling, garment trading in Dubai is a multibillion-dollar industry.

How can I sell my garments in Dubai?

There are several ways to sell garments in Dubai. You can sell online or in-person direct to consumers or export garments wholesale to markets around the world.

How Charles Ntumwa Services can help

With the right guidance, setting up a garment trading company in Dubai, UAE, can be a highly profitable endeavour. However, the process of incorporating a business out here can be complex, particularly if you are new to this part of the world.

That’s where Charles Ntumwa Services comes in. We’re the experts in all things relating to business setup in the UAE, and we’re on hand to manage the entire company formation process on your behalf.

Our expert team will take care of licenses, visas and everything else needed. Get in touch for more information and a personalised quote.

The post Garments Business in Dubai [2025 Guide] appeared first on WWF.