Are you looking to start a business in the dynamic market of Dubai, UAE? You need a business visa for it. There are different types of Dubai business visas, depending on the purpose of your visit and the nature of your engagement. You can get a short-term visit visa if you want to explore the market or a certain venture. If the engagement is long-term, you can explore options such as a golden and green visa.
Why get a business visa in the Emirate of Dubai?
There is a simple process of visa acquisition, but it can get confusing if you are new to the laws. To tackle that, it is standard to seek professional help from business consultants. Contact IBG Consultancy for help with business setup and residence visa.
This guide walks you through everything you should know about business visas in Dubai to help you experience a smooth process. It will help you avoid any challenges and complications along the way.
This is for individuals who are coming to Dubai to explore the market or a business venture. It allows a short-term stay of 30 or 60 days. You can attend meetings or explore opportunities. You must leave and reapply if you want to return.
This visa remains valid for 30 to 60 days from first entry, but you can leave the country as required and come back without facing any issues. This visa allows you to enter and leave Dubai many times. You can attend events, explore the market, or meet clients during this time.
This visa is for people who own or invest in a company in a Dubai free zone. Free zones are special areas with business benefits. You can own your company fully and get tax benefits. You can live and work in Dubai under this visa. The only thing to consider is that starting a business in a free zone will have your activities confined to the respective free zone.
This visa is for people who own or invest in a company in Dubai’s mainland. With a mainland company, you can do business anywhere in the emirate. You may need a local partner who owns part of the company. This visa lets you live and work in Dubai.
This visa is for skilled workers, freelancers, or business owners. Since it is self-sponsored, you do not need a company to sponsor you. It is valid for 5 years. You can live and work under this visa. To qualify for this, you need to meet the required criteria for your category and pay the required fee.
This visa is for investors, entrepreneurs, and talented people. It is a long-term stay permit, valid for 10 years. You can sponsor your family to live with you. You can get long-term stability through this visa. To qualify for this, you need to meet the required criteria for your category and pay the required fee.
Start with deciding if you need a sponsored visa (like Free Zone or Mainland) or a self-sponsored one (like Green or Golden). Your choice depends on your business setup, period and nature of stay, and investment level.
You must either register a new company or show proof of investment in an existing one. This is important for both visa types and is the first legal step.
For Free Zone companies, register with the Free Zone authority. For the Mainland, register with the Department of Economic Development. Investors applying for self-sponsored visas can apply through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRAF).
Prepare the required documents. You’ll need your passport, photos, business license, bank statements, and sometimes a business plan. If you’re sponsored, your company will also provide supporting documents. Make sure your documents are valid and complete.
You or your sponsor must fill out and submit the visa form online, through the official UAE government portal or the Free Zone authority website. Ensure the validity and correctness of all information submitted.
The cost depends on your type of visa and location. Free Zones, Mainland, and self-sponsored options all have different fee structures.
You must take a medical test at an approved UAE clinic and apply for your Emirates ID. This step is the same for all types of visas.
Once all documents are checked and fees are paid, the authorities will approve your application. This may take a few days or weeks.
After approval, your visa will be stamped in your passport. This confirms that you are legally allowed to stay and do business.
Now you can run your business, attend meetings, or invest in startups legally. Follow all local rules and renew your visa on time, if required.

Mistake: Missing forms, expired documents, or unsigned papers
Solution: You have to double-check all paperwork before submission. It’s best to get professional help for completing the paperwork.

Mistake: Submitting expired or non-UAE-approved insurance
Solution: You have to get updated health insurance valid in the UAE. You might need professional consultation to solve such issues.

Mistake: Insufficient income or unclear financial proof
Solution: Provide solid bank statements, investment records, or pension proof. If things get confusing, you can always count on experts to ensure a smooth process.








The authorities have clear guidelines on the details of prerequisites for all types of permits. Ensure that you meet the requirements set by the government and that your documents are valid and correct.
Submitting invalid documents can result in delays or fines. Some cases may even end up in the rejection of the application. You have to ensure the validity and correctness of the documents & translation before submission.
Ensure that your application, processing, and acquisition take place on the schedule of your choice. Applying late can cause many possible issues, including delays and even rejection of the permit.

Contact us to get a FREE consultation to understand your visa needs and prerequisites.

Our team prepares and organizes all required paperwork for a smooth application.

We apply for you & speed up your process through our strong ties with UAE’s authorities.

Once approved, we get your visa delivered to you. You’re ready to explore UAE!

Yes, many choose to conduct market research or opt for a business visit visa before establishing operations. This allows insight into local demand, competition, and customer behavior.
Nationals of many countries are eligible to apply online for a residence permit or explore visa options depending on their qualifications and financial plans.
A tourist visa is meant for leisure and short stays, while a business visit visa is more suitable for meetings, networking, or evaluating business opportunities.
Yes, individuals outside the UAE can submit an application for various types of visas through official platforms before entering the country.
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) manages approvals for several visa categories, especially for those planning to start a business or pursue a partner visa.
Freelancers typically need to provide an application form, proof of work, and financial stability before they can obtain a residence permit from the UAE government.
Some residents of the UAE and nationals of many countries are eligible for permit on arrival, which is valid for a short stay and can be used to visit Dubai for market research.
The fees varies depending on the type and duration. Long-term stays for entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, or investors often involve higher AED amounts due to extended benefits.
Once in the UAE, you may be eligible for a status change if you wish to transition from a transit visa or tourist visa to a permit that allows working or investing.
Once your permit is issued, you’ll proceed to the next steps like securing your Emirates ID, opening bank accounts, or getting a licence to run your company in the UAE.
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