Business Visa Dubai, UAE

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?

  • You can explore local trends and investment opportunities by being on the ground.
  • Major trade events and expos in Dubai offer chances to network and learn.
  • Free zones let you start businesses with full ownership and tax-friendly terms.
  • Being in Dubai helps you build partnerships across the GCC for long-term growth.

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.

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    I B G CORPORATE SERVICES PROVIDER L.L.C provides independent business advisory services and not endorsed by, affiliated with, or otherwise connected to any government agencies.

    Types of Business Visas in Dubai, UAE

    Steps to Get a UAE Business Visa

    1 Pick the Right Visa Type

    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.

    2 Set Up Your Business or Investment

    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.

    3 Register with Relevant Authorities

    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).

    4 Collect and Prepare Your Documents

    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.

    5 Submit the Online Application

    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.

    6 Pay the Required Fees

    The cost depends on your type of visa and location. Free Zones, Mainland, and self-sponsored options all have different fee structures.

    7 Complete Medical and ID Process

    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.

    8 Get Your Visa Approved

    Once all documents are checked and fees are paid, the authorities will approve your application. This may take a few days or weeks.

    9 Receive Visa Stamp on Passport

    After approval, your visa will be stamped in your passport. This confirms that you are legally allowed to stay and do business.

    10 Start Operating Legally in Dubai

    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.

    Silver Visa vs Golden Visa vs Green Visa

    The government of the UAE offers different programs offering residence visas to suit a wide range of requirements. A golden visa offers the longest stay of 10 years in the country, while a silver visa is a version of it that only offers 5 years of stay. Most other perks and eligibility categories are the same. Meanwhile, the scope of a green visa is different. It is for skilled employees and freelancers, offering them a residency visa for 5 years, allowing them to live and work in the UAE.

    Common Application Mistakes & Solutions

    Freelance-Permit

    Incomplete Documents

    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.

    Professional-License

    Health Insurance

    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.

    Commercial-License

    Financial Instability

    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.

    Benefits of Dubai Business Visa

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    Access global markets

    Attend trade expos

    Explore investments

    Tax-free setup zones

    Build GCC links

    Flexible bank setup

    100% ownership rights

    Fast-track residency

    Required Documents for a Residence Visa Application

    • Valid passport copy
    • Recent passport-size photo
    • Business license copy
    • Entry permit (if applicable)
    • Bank statement (past 6 months)
    • Emirates ID application form
    • Medical fitness certificate
    • Memorandum of Association (MOA)
    • Trade name reservation proof
    • Tenancy contract or address proof

    Eligibility Requirements to Get a UAE Work Visa

    • A job offer from a UAE-based employer before applying for an employment permit
    • Must provide academic proof, like a degree, depending on the job type
    • Your passport must be valid for 6+ months beyond your planned UAE stay
    • Medical tests in the home country and the UAE to check for diseases
    • Must be 18 or older to be eligible for work in the UAE
    • A clean criminal record is required from home and other countries you've lived in

    Tips to Apply for UAE Blue Visa

    Meet the Criteria

    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.

    Right Paperwork

    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.

    Pick the Right Time

    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.

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    How IBG Consultancy Helps You Get a Visa in 4 Simple Steps

    Document Processing

    Contact Us

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

    Select Services

    We Handle Your Documents

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

    Submit Documents

    We Apply for You

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

    Processing Time

    You Get Your Visa

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

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    Why Contact IBG Consultancy for Your Emirates Visa Consultation

    The process to get a visa in the UAE may be simple, but it can be confusing for an individual unaware of the laws. Getting help from a professional consultancy is smart and a standard practice. When choosing the right consultancy for applying for a permit in the country, it is important to consider things such as official licensing, a successful immigration track record, and transparency in prices.

    IBG Consultancy offers it all and more, including suitable packages for a wide range of preferences. Our years of experience and networking with the authorities in the United Arab Emirates help us get you the best packages and processing time. Contact us today to get your business visa smoothly!

    Would you like to find out more?

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Know more about the 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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    The United Arab Emirates has become a world-class business hub as it is continuously served and nourished local and foreign investments.

    Client Testimonials

    Ahmad Khalil

    I would like to thank harsha and sajad by names for the effort they did to get my visa done million thanks to all the team

    Aeon International FZ-LLC

    Deepa Nair

    Thanks to Mr Mahesh and Ms Harsha for guiding us in every step towards registering our company. They made the process so smooth and easy for us that we recommend IBG consultants to get your work done in a most professional way. They responded to our queries any time of the day and the quality of their services were top class. Way to go IBG! Thanks and regards..

    VMentor

    RADHAKRISHNA

    Thanks to Ms. Harsha and the team for guiding me towards registering my company. They made the process so smooth and easy for me. I will recommend IBG consultants to anyone to get their trade license process done in a professional way. Appreciate the quality of response to my queries , Way to go IBG!

    Aspire Point Technical Services LLC

    Marites Maite

    We had our business processed by IBG Consulting, and they had exceeded our expectations. Mahesh Maddu did an amazing job explaining each process and throughout the whole registration. Harsha, who is in charge of the back-end processing, is prompt and efficient in updating us with our license. Overall, I highly recommend IBG Consulting for all your business licensing needs.

    Project X1 LLC

    Subashi Joshi

    When we decided five years ago to start our business in Dubai, we approached IBG Consulting for our business license and other documents. From day one, we appreciate how they interacted and exerted efforts for us, each with a smile on their faces, until we finish the whole legal process. All necessary documents were processed within the timeframe.
    We can say that we have a good working relationship with IBG Consulting, and will remain as it is in the future. They are all very supportive and prompt in their services. They gave us the best solutions and treated us with respect. We wish them good luck and we look forward to more corporate services available from their agency.

    Welldone International FZC

    Ljiljana Conic

    Our experience with IBG was and still is great. They helped us to support our clients to do business in UAE. Especially thanks to Mr. Erano and Ms. Fatima – efficient team of professionals. We ll definitely do business with them in future and recomend them to our clients.

    Conic&Tonic – Republic of Serbia

    Zuhair

    Quality Business Organization
    Easy to reach, advertised in popular e-media, sociable personnel, high standard communication, segregate task assignment among employee, well trained and expert workforce, friendly feeling.

    PRO Services

    Ihab Dakak

    Great Experience with IBG
    My experience with IBG was great! the team is so supportive and continuously provided a high level of service. Indeed, Recommended.

    Marketo Rex LLC

    Rakesh

    IBG helped me in getting my dependents.
    IBG helped me in getting my dependents’ visa processed. The service offered by IBG was great, and the most important part of the service is their response and being transparent, especially in terms of charges, timelines etc. I recommend to consult IBG for visa related services in UAE.

    PRO Services

    Rickee

    Working with IBG was smooth like butter, this was made possible only by people like Mr.Mahesh, Ms.Harsha and Ms.Fatima. They are best in their respective jobs and maintained professionalism throughout my company opening process and follow up requirements.
    100% I will recommend IBG to my contacts!

    PRO Services

    Jenifer Silva

    Excellent Customer Service. IBG helped us setting up our business smoothly. They go above and beyond – SUPERB customer service!! A big thank you to the operations team (Ms. Fatma and most especially to Mrs. Halima Amin).

    100% will recommend to my contacts!!

    AromaPlus

    RCB

    Business Set-Up Licensing
    Excellent Work With Halina and IBG Staff, Very Professional and Supportive.

    RCB Consulting

    Ahmad Khalil

    I would like to thank harsha and sajad by names for the effort they did to get my visa done million thanks to all the team

    Aeon International FZ-LLC

    Deepa Nair

    Thanks to Mr Mahesh and Ms Harsha for guiding us in every step towards registering our company. They made the process so smooth and easy for us that we recommend IBG consultants to get your work done in a most professional way. They responded to our queries any time of the day and the quality of their services were top class. Way to go IBG! Thanks and regards..

    VMentor

    RADHAKRISHNA

    Thanks to Ms. Harsha and the team for guiding me towards registering my company. They made the process so smooth and easy for me. I will recommend IBG consultants to anyone to get their trade license process done in a professional way. Appreciate the quality of response to my queries , Way to go IBG!

    Aspire Point Technical Services LLC

    Marites Maite

    We had our business processed by IBG Consulting, and they had exceeded our expectations. Mahesh Maddu did an amazing job explaining each process and throughout the whole registration. Harsha, who is in charge of the back-end processing, is prompt and efficient in updating us with our license. Overall, I highly recommend IBG Consulting for all your business licensing needs.

    Project X1 LLC

    Subashi Joshi

    When we decided five years ago to start our business in Dubai, we approached IBG Consulting for our business license and other documents. From day one, we appreciate how they interacted and exerted efforts for us, each with a smile on their faces, until we finish the whole legal process. All necessary documents were processed within the timeframe.
    We can say that we have a good working relationship with IBG Consulting, and will remain as it is in the future. They are all very supportive and prompt in their services. They gave us the best solutions and treated us with respect. We wish them good luck and we look forward to more corporate services available from their agency.

    Welldone International FZC

    Ljiljana Conic

    Our experience with IBG was and still is great. They helped us to support our clients to do business in UAE. Especially thanks to Mr. Erano and Ms. Fatima – efficient team of professionals. We ll definitely do business with them in future and recomend them to our clients.

    Conic&Tonic – Republic of Serbia

    Zuhair

    Quality Business Organization
    Easy to reach, advertised in popular e-media, sociable personnel, high standard communication, segregate task assignment among employee, well trained and expert workforce, friendly feeling.

    PRO Services

    Ihab Dakak

    Great Experience with IBG
    My experience with IBG was great! the team is so supportive and continuously provided a high level of service. Indeed, Recommended.

    Marketo Rex LLC

    Rakesh

    IBG helped me in getting my dependents.
    IBG helped me in getting my dependents’ visa processed. The service offered by IBG was great, and the most important part of the service is their response and being transparent, especially in terms of charges, timelines etc. I recommend to consult IBG for visa related services in UAE.

    PRO Services

    Rickee

    Working with IBG was smooth like butter, this was made possible only by people like Mr.Mahesh, Ms.Harsha and Ms.Fatima. They are best in their respective jobs and maintained professionalism throughout my company opening process and follow up requirements.
    100% I will recommend IBG to my contacts!

    PRO Services

    Jenifer Silva

    Excellent Customer Service. IBG helped us setting up our business smoothly. They go above and beyond – SUPERB customer service!! A big thank you to the operations team (Ms. Fatma and most especially to Mrs. Halima Amin).

    100% will recommend to my contacts!!

    AromaPlus

    RCB

    Business Set-Up Licensing
    Excellent Work With Halina and IBG Staff, Very Professional and Supportive.

    RCB Consulting

    Ready to take your next big step? Contact us today for a free consultation!