When you’re starting a business in Dubai, finding a low-cost deal is tempting. Many “business setup packages Dubai” appear attractive. But cheap offers can hide serious costs. You might end up paying far more than you planned.
What “Cheap” Often Means
Low-priced packages often cover only the basics: licence fee and registration. They exclude other essentials like visa, office space, bank setup and renewals. Without these, your business will face extra bills and delays.
Some packages skip long-term needs such as compliance, accounting or the right zone for your growth. Then you hit surprises you didn’t budget for.
Hidden Costs You Might Face
- Visa & residency fees: If visas are excluded, each one adds thousands of dirhams.
- Office space or flex-desk: Some packages require you later to upgrade your office to meet zone regulations.
- Bank account setup or minimum balance: Opening a corporate account can take weeks and may have high minimums.
- Licence renewal & compliance: The yearly cost may be almost as much as setup cost.
- Limited trading scope: If you pick the wrong jurisdiction, you may face extra fees to change it.
How Poorly Designed Packages Hurt Growth
Choosing a cheap package may lock you into a structure that limits your business. For example:
- You pick a free-zone licence but later realise you need mainland access. Upgrading costs time and money.
- You choose a licence under the wrong activity. Changing it costs extra and may delay operations.
- Your package gives minimal visa quota. Hiring staff or relocating family becomes costly.
Why Transparency Matters
Before you sign any “business setup packages Dubai”, ask for full cost breakdown. The document should list everything: licence, visas, office, services, renewals. If the setup provider hides costs or gives vague answers, that’s a warning sign.
Check whether the service includes post-setup help: bank account, compliance, renewals. A package that stops after licence leaves you alone.
Choosing a Smart Package Instead
- Compare what is included: licence type, zone, visas, office.
- Ask the setup provider: what happens if I expand? Move out of zone? Need more visas?
- Budget for 12 months at least. Setup cost is one part; running cost is another.
- Pick a provider with good reviews, transparent terms and visible support. If they push a super-cheap fee without details, walk away.
Final Word
Cheap packages for business setup in Dubai may look good at first. But what you don’t see can cost you more. Hidden fees, limited scope and unexpected renewals can pull you back. A smart setup plan may cost more upfront but saves you money, time and worry later.
Ready to set up your business the right way?
Contact AR Associates for full-service support: licence, visas, compliance and renewals. Let’s build your business on a secure, honest foundation.
