Dubai’s thriving economy and focus on innovation make it an ideal location for entrepreneurs looking to set up a health and wellness company in Dubai. The emirate’s growing population, rising health awareness, and influx of medical tourists create a robust market for wellness services. With world-class infrastructure and supportive regulations, starting a healthcare venture here is both promising and rewarding.
The health and wellness sector in Dubai encompasses clinics, fitness studios, telemedicine platforms, and holistic wellness centers. Navigating the legal landscape, understanding licensing, and choosing the right business structure are critical for success. This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap to establish your venture, covering licenses, legal requirements, costs, and benefits.
Whether you’re a foreign investor or a local entrepreneur, Dubai offers opportunities to tap into a dynamic market. By following the outlined steps and leveraging expert guidance, you can launch a thriving health and wellness business. Let’s explore how to set up a health and wellness company in Dubai with confidence and clarity.
Understanding the Basics
Types of Licenses
To operate legally, your health and wellness business requires specific licenses based on its activities. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and Department of Economic Development (DED) oversee licensing. Below are the primary license types:
Professional License: For service-based businesses like wellness coaching, consultancy, or physiotherapy. Issued by the DED, it suits non-clinical wellness ventures.
Medical License: Required for clinical services like private clinics or diagnostic centers. Issued by the DHA, it ensures compliance with healthcare standards.
Commercial License: For trading health and wellness products, such as supplements or fitness equipment. Issued by the DED for retail or distribution.
Industrial License: For manufacturing wellness products, like organic skincare or health supplements. Issued by the DED for production facilities.
Each license aligns with specific business activities, so choosing the right one is crucial. Consult with the DHA or DED to confirm requirements for your venture.
Types of Companies
Selecting the appropriate business structure impacts ownership, taxation, and operations. Dubai offers three main options for setting up a health and wellness company:
Mainland Company: Allows trading across the UAE and globally. Requires a local sponsor for some activities, though 100% foreign ownership is now permitted in many sectors.
Free Zone Company: Offers 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and no customs duties. Ideal for businesses in Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), a specialized healthcare free zone.
Offshore Company: Suited for businesses operating outside the UAE. Provides tax benefits and privacy but restricts local trading.
Free zone companies, especially in DHCC, are popular for healthcare ventures due to streamlined processes and incentives. Mainland companies suit businesses targeting the local market.
Legal Requirements
Compliance with Dubai’s regulations is mandatory to set up a health and wellness company in Dubai. Key legal requirements include:
Initial Approval: Obtain initial approval from the DED or free zone authority, confirming no objections to your business activity.
Trade Name Registration: Register a unique trade name with the DED, ensuring it complies with UAE naming conventions and reflects your business activity.
Memorandum of Association (MoA): Draft an MoA for LLCs or partnerships, outlining the company’s structure, objectives, and shareholder details.
Lease Agreement: Secure a physical office or clinic space, registered via the Ejari portal in Dubai for mainland businesses.
DHA Approvals: For clinical services, secure DHA approvals for medical licenses, facility standards, and professional qualifications.
Visa and Labor Requirements: Register with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) for employee visas and labor cards.
Non-compliance can lead to fines or license suspension, so thorough preparation is essential.
Benefits of a Health and Wellness Company
Tax Advantages
Dubai offers a low-tax environment, with no personal income tax and a 9% corporate tax introduced in 2023. Free zone companies enjoy tax exemptions, maximizing profitability.
Strategic Location
Dubai’s geographic position connects Europe, Asia, and Africa, providing access to global markets. Its world-class ports and airports facilitate efficient trade and logistics.
Growing Market Demand
Rising health awareness and medical tourism drive demand for wellness services. Dubai’s diverse population creates opportunities for tailored healthcare and fitness solutions.
Modern Infrastructure
Dubai boasts advanced healthcare facilities, high-speed internet, and modern office spaces. Free zones like DHCC offer specialized infrastructure for health and wellness businesses.
100% Foreign Ownership
Free zones and select mainland sectors allow full foreign ownership, eliminating the need for a local sponsor. This enhances control and profit repatriation.
Business-Friendly Regulations
Dubai’s streamlined licensing and digital platforms, like Basher, enable quick company setup. Supportive policies attract entrepreneurs to the healthcare sector.
Access to Talent
Dubai’s diverse workforce includes skilled healthcare professionals. Free zones offer visa quotas, simplifying recruitment for specialized roles.
Global Recognition
Operating in Dubai enhances brand credibility due to its reputation as a business hub. This attracts international clients and partners.
Documents Required
To set up a health and wellness company in Dubai, prepare the following documents:
Passport copies of shareholders and appointed manager.
Proof of trade name reservation from the DED.
Initial approval certificate from the DED or free zone authority.
Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA) for LLCs.
Lease agreement for office or clinic, registered via Ejari for mainland businesses.
Business plan outlining objectives, services, and financial projections.
DHA application form and medical qualifications for clinical services.
Manager’s resume and personal information of shareholders.
Power of attorney for appointing a business advisor, if applicable.
Financial statements or bank statements proving financial stability.
Good Standing Certificate for healthcare professionals (for DHA licensing).
Ensure all documents are notarized and translated into Arabic if required by the DHA or DED.
Steps to Open a Health and Wellness Company
Define Business Activity
Identify your business focus, such as wellness coaching, clinics, or product trading. Ensure it aligns with DED’s activity list for accurate licensing.
Choose Legal Structure
Select a mainland, free zone, or offshore company based on your goals. Free zones like DHCC are ideal for healthcare ventures.
Reserve Trade Name
Register a unique trade name with the DED, ensuring it reflects your business and complies with UAE naming rules.
Obtain Initial Approval
Apply for initial approval from the DED or free zone authority, confirming no objections to your business activity.
Secure DHA Approval
For clinical services, obtain DHA approval for facility standards, professional qualifications, and medical licenses. Submit required documents promptly.
Draft Legal Documents
Prepare the MoA and AoA, outlining company structure and objectives. Notarize documents and submit them to the DED.
Lease Office Space
Secure a physical office or clinic, ensuring compliance with DHA or DED guidelines. Register the lease via Ejari for mainland businesses.
Apply for Licenses
Submit documents to the DED for a professional or commercial license, or to the DHA for a medical license.
Register with MOHRE
Register with the Ministry of Human Resources for employee visas and labor cards. Comply with UAE labor laws.
Open Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account with a UAE bank, providing trade license, MoA, and passport copies for shareholders.
Launch Operations
Once licensed, set up your facility, hire staff, and begin marketing. Focus on patient experience to build a loyal customer base.
Costs Involved
Setting up a health and wellness company in Dubai involves costs ranging from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000, depending on the business type and location. Key expenses include:
License Fees: AED 10,000–AED 20,000 for DED or DHA licenses, varying by activity.
Office Lease: AED 5,000–AED 15,000 annually for small offices or clinic spaces.
Visa Costs: AED 4,000–AED 5,500 per investor or employee visa.
Registration Fees: AED 2,000–AED 5,000 for trade name and initial approvals.
Equipment and Setup: AED 5,000–AED 20,000 for medical or wellness equipment.
Free zone setups, like DHCC, may have higher initial costs but offer tax benefits. Mainland businesses face Ejari and local sponsor fees. Budgeting for these expenses ensures a smooth setup process.
Conclusion
Setting up a health and wellness company in Dubai is a strategic move, given the emirate’s booming healthcare market and business-friendly environment. By understanding licenses, legal requirements, and costs, you can establish a successful venture. Partnering with experts like Bizinvestfirm simplifies the process, offering tailored guidance on licensing, documentation, and compliance. Their experienced consultants streamline setup, ensuring your business thrives in Dubai’s competitive landscape. Start your journey today and tap into Dubai’s lucrative health and wellness sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
What licenses are needed for a wellness company in Dubai?
A professional license from the DED is required for non-clinical services, while a DHA medical license is needed for clinical operations.
How long does it take to set up a health and wellness company?
The process takes 2–4 weeks, depending on the business type, authority efficiency, and document readiness.
Can foreigners own a health and wellness company in Dubai?
Yes, free zones offer 100% foreign ownership. Mainland businesses may require a local sponsor in some cases.
What is the cost of starting a healthcare business in Dubai?
Costs range from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000, covering licenses, office lease, visas, and equipment.
Why choose Dubai for a health and wellness business?
Dubai’s tax benefits, growing market, and modern infrastructure make it ideal for health and wellness ventures.
What is Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC)?
DHCC is a free zone specializing in healthcare, offering tax exemptions, 100% ownership, and streamlined licensing.
Do I need a local sponsor for a mainland company?
Not always. Since 2020, many mainland sectors allow 100% foreign ownership, but some require a sponsor.
What documents are required for DHA licensing?
Include passport copies, business plan, medical qualifications, lease agreement, and MoA for DHA license approval.
How do I choose a location for my wellness business?
Select a site compliant with DHA or DED guidelines, prioritizing accessibility and patient convenience.
Can I operate a telemedicine platform in Dubai?
Yes, with a DHA medical license and compliance with telemedicine regulations, you can offer virtual services.