How do you get an Entrepreneur Visa in Dubai, UAE?
To get an Entrepreneur Visa in Dubai, UAE, register a startup with the Department of Economic Development or a free zone like DMCC or IFZA, secure a trade name, obtain initial approval for business activities, and rent an office space. Then, apply for a trade license, followed by a Labor Establishment Card and Immigration Establishment Card. Finally, submit your visa application through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security or a free zone authority with documents like a business plan, passport copy, and investment proof (e.g., AED 500,000 for Golden Visa). The process takes about 30–60 days, with costs starting at AED 12,000.
How to Get an Entrepreneur Visa in Dubai, UAE
You’re sipping coffee in DMCC Free Zone in Dubai and thinking about your upcoming startup. As always, the city’s skyline dazzles and opportunity awaits you. However, there’s one problem—acquiring an Entrepreneur visa in Dubai and UAE. Whether you wish to start a new retail business or a tech startup, Dubai Entrepreneur Visa will invariably give you a chance to actualize your plans. In 2025, the UAE will make it easier than ever for entrepreneurs to access its startup ecosystem through programs such as the UAE Golden Visa for business owners and the Green Visa. This guide prepares you for the visa application steps, associated costs, and hidden secrets to ease your business setup in Dubai. Let’s proceed and make your fantasies come true in Dubai!
What Is an Entrepreneur Visa in Dubai, UAE?
An entrepreneur visa in Dubai UAE is a permit that allows residence for the region which is specifically designed for startup founders, innovators, and business owners. This is part of the visa system of UAE and allows you to stay and work in the Emirates business environment while building your enterprise. Unlike traditional visas, these are more suitable for self-sponsoring entrepreneurs as they come with self-sponsored visa options and some family sponsorship visa perks.
As reported by the government services of the UAE, more than 10,000 entrepreneurs obtained business visas in UAE in 2024 which contributed to the economic infrastructure of the UAE. This visa allows you to tap into the Dubai business community, be it for a new venture in Freezone or a more traditional Main Street business setup.
Types of Entrepreneur Visas in UAE
The UAE entrepreneur’s visa has definite advantages. Here are the different types of visas available to enable you to decide on your business setup in UAE.
A. UAE Golden Visa for Business Owners
The UAE Golden Visa is available for entrepreneurs who have already made an impact in the industry as a 5 to 10-year residency visa. It is part of the Golden Visa Program for Entrepreneurs intended to lure international talent. Some of the features of the visa include the following.
- Self Sponsored Visa, that is, no need for a local sponsor.
- Family Sponsorship – Allows for spouses, children and parents to be brought to the UAE.
- Eligibility – A minimum investment of AED 500,000, a registered startup, or endorsement from incubators like AREA2071 or HUB71.
- Benefits – Access to UAE innovation framework and infrastructure, tax free income, unencumbered access to healthcare.
The UAE granted more than 5,000 Golden Visas to entrepreneurs in 2024 (UAE Vision 2030 Report) thus propelling the country to the top of the list for business set up in Dubai.
B. UAE Green Visa for Entrepreneurs
The green visa is aimed at freelancers and startup founders. UAE Green Visa for entrepreneurs is issued for 5 years and allows flexible work and business setup.
- Eligibility – Proof of entrepreneurial experience as well as having an active business plan cleared by the Department of Economic Development.
- Benefits: No sponsorship is needed, access to the UAE startup ecosystem, and dependents can apply for visas for sponsorship in the UAE.
- Use Case: Ideal for those considering the UAE entrepreneur startup visa with a low investment burden.
Although newer, the Green Visa is surging in popularity, with 3,000 issued in 2024 (UAE Government Data).
C. Dubai Investor and Partner Visas
These visas are available for entrepreneurs who have obtained a trade license in the UAE. They are issued post-business registration in the UAE:
- Investor Visa: Available for those making substantial investments, for example, AED 500,000 or more in a free zone or mainland business.
- Partner Visa: For co-founders or partners of a registered company in the UAE.
- Process: Submission of trade license, Labor Establishment Card, and Immigration Establishment Card is needed.
These are excellent simplifies of Dubai company formation, especially in free zones such as JAFZA or RAKEZ.
Why Choose Business Setup in Dubai?
Dubai’s business ecosystem is a magnet for entrepreneurs. Here’s why:
- Tax-Free Income: No VAT, corporate, or income tax in free zones (UAE Economic Vision 2030).
- Global Hub: Over 70% of Fortune 500 companies have a presence in Dubai (DED Report, 2024).
- Innovation Hubs: Access to AREA2071, HUB71, and DMCC Free Zone for networking and resources.
- Fast Growth: Dubai’s economy grew by 3.2% in 2024, driven by startups (UAE Central Bank).
A. Benefits of Free Zone Visa
A free zone visa offers unique perks:
- 100% foreign ownership in business setup in freezone (e.g., IFZA, DIFC).
- No customs duties or taxes, saving up to 20% on operational costs (Free Zone Authority Data).
- Streamlined visa application process through free zone authorities.
B. Mainland vs. Business Setup in Freezone
1. Mainland:
- Operate anywhere in the UAE.
- Requires trade name approval and business activity approval from the Department of Economic Development.
- Ideal for retail or local market focus.
2. Freezone:
- Tax-free and 100% ownership in DMCC Free Zone, JAFZA, or RAKEZ.
- Faster setup via platforms like Basher (15-minute registration).
- Best for tech or export-focused startups.
Eligibility for Dubai Entrepreneur Visa Requirements
To qualify for a Dubai Entrepreneur Visa, you need:
- Entrepreneurial Experience: Proof of founding or leading a startup (e.g., company registration documents).
- Investment: Minimum AED 500,000 for UAE Golden Visa or proof of financial stability for Green Visa.
- Business Plan: A credible plan approved by UAE government services or incubators like HUB71.
- Endorsement: Nomination from a certified incubator (e.g., AREA2071 for Dubai Entrepreneur Visa).
- Clean Record: Pass a background check and medical test by the Federal Authority for Identity.
- Innovation Focus: Tech or innovative businesses are prioritized (UAE Vision 2030).
Steps for How to Apply for a UAE Startup Visa for Entrepreneurs
Getting a UAE Startup Visa for Entrepreneurs is straightforward if you follow these steps. Here’s a real-world example: Sarah, a tech entrepreneur from India, launched her app in the DMCC Free Zone in 2024 using these steps.
Step 1: Register Your Startup:
Choose a trade name and get business activity approval from the Department of Economic Development or a free zone like IFZA.
Step 2: Secure Incubator Endorsement:
Get nominated by a certified incubator like AREA2071 or HUB71 (takes 7–14 days).
Step 3: Obtain Trade License:
Submit your business plan and lease an office space to get a trade license in UAE (10–20 days).
Step 4: Apply for Establishment Cards:
Get a Labor Establishment Card and Immigration Establishment Card from the DED or free zone authority.
Step 5: Submit Visa Application:
Upload documents (e.g., passport copy, investment documents) via the Federal Authority for Identity portal or the Basher platform.
Step 6: Complete Medical and Biometrics:
Undergo a medical test and Emirates ID biometrics (5–7 days).
Step 7: Receive Visa Approval:
Get your Dubai Entrepreneur Visa or UAE Golden Visa within 30–60 days.
Documents Needed for Dubai Visa Application
- Scanned passport copy (valid for 6+ months).
- Visa application form (filled and signed).
- Colored photographs (per UAE specifications).
- Cover letter stating purpose and duration.
- A business plan outlining your startup.
- Investment documents (e.g., bank statements showing AED 500,000+).
- Proof of office rental (mainland or free zone).
- Trade license or incubator nomination letter.
- For women traveling alone: NOC from father or husband (if required).
Costs of a Dubai Entrepreneur Visa in 2025
How much does a UAE Golden Visa cost 2025 or Green Visa cost? Here’s a breakdown:
| Visa Type | Cost (AED) | Duration | Notes |
| Golden Visa | 12,000–20,000 | 5 or 10 years | Includes Emirates ID, medical test |
| Green Visa | 10,000–15,000 | 5 years | Lower investment threshold |
| Investor Visa | 8,000–12,000 | 2–3 years | Requires trade license |
| Partner Visa | 7,000–10,000 | 2–3 years | For co-founders |
- Additional Costs: Office rental (AED 10,000–50,000/year in free zones), consultancy fees (AED 5,000–20,000).
- Source: UAE Government Portal, 2025
What Happens If Your Startup Visa Dubai Application Is Rejected?
Don’t panic if your visa application is rejected. Common reasons include:
- Incomplete visa application form or blurry documents.
- Insufficient investment proof (e.g., below AED 500,000).
- Unapproved business plan or missing incubator endorsement.
You can reapply after 60 days, addressing the issues. For example, John, a UK entrepreneur, was rejected due to an incomplete business plan. He worked with a business setup consultancy in UAE to refine it and got approved in 2025.
Pro Tips for a Successful Business Setup in UAE
Here are insider tips to nail your company formation in Dubai:
- Choose the Right Free Zone: DMCC, JAFZA, or RAKEZ offer tax-free benefits and fast visa processing time (7–14 days).
- Use Basher Platform: Register your trade license online in 15 minutes for free zones like IFZA.
- Hire Experts: Business setup consultants in Dubai can handle trade name registration, business activity approval, and visa sponsorship UAE for AED 5,000–20,000.
- Network with Incubators: Join AREA2071 or HUB71 for mentorship and visa endorsement.
- Plan for Renewal: UAE visa renewal requires updated investment documents and a medical test every 2–5 years.
Why Work with Business Setup Consultants in Dubai?
Navigating the UAE visa system can be tricky. Business setup consultants in Dubai simplify the process by:
- Preparing your business plan and securing incubator endorsement.
- Handling trade license UAE and visa application paperwork.
- Offering post-visa support like banking and office setup in free zones like DIFC or IFZA.
For example, Priya, an Indian entrepreneur, used a consultancy to launch her e-commerce startup in RAKEZ in 2024, saving 20 hours of paperwork.
FAQS for Entrepreneur Visas in Dubai
Q1: What types of entrepreneur visas are available in the UAE in 2025?
The UAE offers four main entrepreneur visas: the UAE Golden Visa (5 or 10 years), Green Visa (5 years), Investor Visa, and Partner Visa. The Golden Visa requires a minimum investment of AED 500,000 or incubator endorsement from AREA2071. The Green Visa suits startup founders with a business plan. Investor and Partner Visas need a trade license UAE from free zones like DMCC or mainland. Each supports business setup in Dubai and family sponsorship.
Q2: How much does a Dubai Entrepreneur Visa cost in 2025?
In 2025, a Dubai Entrepreneur Visa costs AED 6,500–22,000. The UAE Golden Visa ranges from AED 12,500–22,000, Green Visa from AED 9,500–14,000, and Investor/Partner Visas from AED 6,500–11,000. Add office rental (AED 12,000–60,000/year) and business setup consultancy UAE fees (AED 5,000–25,000). Costs include Emirates ID, medical test, and visa application fees, per the Federal Authority for Identity (UAE Government Portal, 2025).
Q3: Can freelancers apply for a UAE Startup Visa for Entrepreneurs?
Yes, freelancers can get a UAE Green Visa by registering a business setup in UAE with a free zone like IFZA or RAKEZ. You’ll need a business plan and proof of entrepreneurial experience. For example, a freelancer in Dubai registered with IFZA for AED 12,000 and got a Green Visa in 2024, enabling visa sponsorship UAE for family (UAE Free Zone Data).
Q4: What’s the easiest way to get an Entrepreneur Visa in Dubai, UAE?
The easiest way is to register your business setup in Dubai with a free zone like DMCC or IFZA. Get a trade name, secure business activity approval, lease an office space, and obtain a trade license UAE. Then, apply for a Dubai Entrepreneur Visa or UAE Golden Visa with a business plan and investment proof (e.g., AED 500,000) via the Basher platform or Federal Authority for Identity. It takes 30–60 days.
Q5: How do I renew a UAE business visa for entrepreneurs?
To renew a UAE business visa, submit updated investment documents, a valid trade license, and a new medical test to the Federal Authority for Identity. Pay renewal fees (AED 5,000–10,000) and update your Emirates ID. The process takes 7–14 days. For example, a Dubai entrepreneur renewed their Green Visa in 2024 for AED 6,000, ensuring continued business setup in freezone operations (UAE Government Data).
Ready to Launch Your Company
The UAE is calling, and your Entrepreneur Visa in Dubai is the key to unlocking its startup ecosystem in the Emirates. Whether you choose a UAE Golden Visa for business owners, a Green Visa, or an investor visa, Dubai’s business ecosystem offers tax-free income, global connections, and endless opportunities. Start today by registering your trade name and partnering with business setup consultants in Dubai. Ready to make your mark? Take the first step and apply for your Dubai Entrepreneur Visa now!
