Author: Ayushi Doegar

The UAE combines a well-developed and diversified economy with world-class infrastructure, excellent transport links and attractive tax incentives for aspiring entrepreneurs. While the region is home to some of the world’s biggest business success stories, SMEs are still seen as crucial for economic growth. To ensure that startups can thrive in this ecosystem, the UAE has focused efforts on enabling entrepreneurs to start and scale businesses affordably.

Free zones offer the easiest way to enjoy low cost business setup in UAE. Acquiring a low-cost free zone license is simple, provided you work with specialists who understand the market, laws and compliance.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about low-cost business setup in UAE. We will dive deeper into the advantages of keeping costs down at the outset and explore everything you need to know about the setup process. We will cover the following topics:

• Low-cost business setup in UAE
• Steps to start a low cost business setup in UAE
• Benefits of having a low-cost business license in the UAE
• How much does it cost to start a small business in the UAE?

Low-cost business setup in UAE

SPC Free Zone has a low-cost license that will help you set up your business in the UAE. The cost of a license from SPC Free Zone is AED 6,875

When you choose to establish your business with SPC Free Zone, you can choose from a wide variety of cost-effective packages with multi-year license options. You can also choose from more than 1,500 business activities and combine as many as five different activities under one license.

As well as being affordable, the process is fast, too. It takes just two hours for a license and six working days for a residence visa. Thanks to e-channel services, most of the process can be completed remotely too through state-of-the-art digital systems.

Steps to start a low-cost business setup in UAE

Regardless of your budget, the process for starting a business in the UAE involves a series of simple steps:

Step 1: Outline your business activities

First, you’ll need to choose from 1,500-plus business activities and list these on your license application. You’ll also need to name your business, avoiding any offensive or blasphemous language.

Step 2: Apply for your license

Next, you’ll need to apply for your license. SPC Free Zone’s business advisors can help you make sure your papers are in order. Once approved, you will receive your license in just 45 minutes.

Step 3: Visa approvals

Then you’ll need to apply for visas on behalf of you and your employees. To do this, you should apply for e-channel services to receive your entry permit, a temporary visa valid for 60 days.

Step 4: Status change

Once you have received your permit, the local authorities will activate your status change. This means that you can undergo your medical check and apply for your Emirates ID. It enables you to apply for things like a bank account, property rentals and mobile phone contracts.

Benefits of having a low-cost business license in the UAE 

There are countless benefits to starting up a low cost business setup in UAE. These include:

• Increased profit

By developing a lean cost structure from the outset, you can capitalise on wider margins. This means you can also offer a stronger value proposition to your clients by offering competitively priced products and services.

• Increased marketing spend

Good marketing enables you to keep your products and services at the front of your customers’ minds. Without it, you could have the most ground-breaking products but never reach your target audience. By saving on setup costs, you can divert your funds into a good marketing strategy.

• Increased hire spend

It’s important to get the right people on board your business from the outset. By shaving off unnecessary upfront costs, you can ensure your business attracts the best talent from the get-go.

• Easier operations

Entrepreneurs that make large initial investments are left with the heavy burden of high bills, staff, and other hidden costs. With a low cost business setup in UAE, you have more flexibility and more cash flow for smoother operations.

How much does it cost to start a small business in the UAE?

The cost of starting a small low cost business setup in UAE is AED 6,875.  However, there are additional costs to consider when starting a small business in the UAE.

To set up your low cost business setup in UAE, you’ll need to make sure you have the right license. SPC Free Zone offers four different licenses: Commercial, General, Services and Trading. Prices differ depending on the type of business license you require, as well as the type of business you will be conducting.

You’ll also need to take office and facility costs into consideration. For instance, will you be leveraging SPC Free Zone’s flexi-desk offering or will you need a permanent facility for your employees?

For an accurate and personalised quote tailored to your business requirements, get in touch with our friendly business advisors at SPC Free Zone.

What is the cheapest free zone in the UAE?

The cheapest free zone in the UAE is SPC Free Zone. Located in the Emirate of Sharjah, it offers hassle-free, multi-faceted setup for those looking to set up their dream business in the UAE.

While SPC Free Zone’s core licensing activities are Publishing and Printing, it issues licenses for over 1,500 business activities, ranging from e-commerce and engineering to consultancy and construction.

As well as being cheap, SPC Free Zone offers a whole host of additional benefits for entrepreneurs. These include:

• Proximity to the airport

SPC Free Zone is just 15 minutes’ drive from Dubai International Airport

• Fast services delivery

In-house immigration speeds up business setup significantly, with licenses issued in less than two hours and visas issued in seven working days

• Top-rated infrastructure

State-of-the-art 24/7 coworking spaces, unfurnished and furnished office spaces, storage solutions, shell and core solutions, and meeting rooms, located close to the Carrefour Mall

• Business-friendly eco-system

A wide network of entrepreneurs and startups to tap into, with real opportunities to actively contribute to the growing UAE economy

• Easy bank account opening

Wide range of banking partners to choose from

Why work with SPC Free Zone?

Offering fast, convenient and affordable business setup in the UAE, SPC Free Zone is the perfect launchpad for entrepreneurs and startups looking to keep business setup costs low, without compromising. Entrepreneurs can easily register a company and begin business operations without delay, with licenses issued in just two hours.

We offer over 1,500 business activities and multiple visas under one license too. Our clients also enjoy competitive benefits such as 100% foreign ownership with zero paid-up capital and a dual-license option that offers both mainland and free zone on the same license.

There’s no need to do it alone either. Our business advisors are experts in the market and can help you navigate your business setup, every step of the way.

Ready to launch your low cost business setup in UAE? Get in touch with SPC Free Zone to find out how to do this as quickly and cheaply as possible.

#lowcostlicenseuae #spcfreezone #businesssetupuae

As more entrepreneurs and companies look to the UAE to start and scale their businesses, they require specialized services to support development and growth. Demand for consultants is rocketing and the region is ripe with opportunities for a range of experts, from HR and resourcing consultancies to business strategy consultants.

Before you open a consultancy business in Dubai, UAE, you will need to ensure that you have the right license. While obtaining a consultancy license is a relatively straightforward process, you’ll need to jump through a few hoops first.

In this article, we will answer your most pressing questions, including ‘how do I open a consultancy company in the UAE’. We will explore everything you need to know, including the price, the benefits and the application process for a consultancy license in UAE. We will cover the following topics:

• Steps to obtain consultancy license UAE
• Consultancy licenses UAE cost
• Types of consultancy licenses in the UAE
• Advantages of starting a consultancy in the UAE
• Why chose SPC for consultancy license UAE?

Related article: How to start a legal consultancy in Dubai, UAE

Steps to obtain a consultancy license in the UAE

The steps to get a consultancy license in the UAE are:

Step 1: Submit your documents

If approved, you will receive your consultancy license UAE in under two hours.

Step 2: Apply for e-channel applications

Once registered, you can apply for your entry permit, which is valid for up to 60 days.

Step 3: Status change confirmation

After receiving your entry permit, you can activate your status change.

Step 4: Undergo your medical test and apply for Emirates ID

With your Emirates ID card, you can open a bank account, rent a property and take out contracts.

Step 5: Residence visa approved

SPC Free Zone’s business setup advisors will guide you through the process, every step of the way.

Cost of consultancy licenses UAE

The cost of a consultancy license in the UAE is AED 6500. This includes both co-working spaces and the lease agreement.

However, there are additional costs to consider when applying for your consultancy license UAE too. For an accurate and personalized quote tailored to your business requirements, get in touch with our friendly business advisors at SPC Free Zone.

Types of consultancy licenses in the UAE

When it comes to applying for your consultancy license UAE, you need to ensure you’re applying for the right one. There are many different types of consultancy licenses in the UAE and these depend on the nature of the business activity. There is a wide range of business activities to choose from including:

• Accounting, Tax and VAT 
• Business Setup
• Educational
• Engineering
• Finance and Investment
• HR Services
• Immigration
• Industrial
• IT consulting
• Legal
• Logistics and Shipping
• Market Research
• Operations Management
• Project Management
• Risk Management and Compliance
• Sales and Marketing
• Strategy-building

There are no specific qualifications required to apply for a consultancy license, though you will need to have experience and knowledge of the relevant industry. Some business activities may have specific requirements, such as an MBA, but this is only rarely required, depending on the type of consultancy you choose to build.

Advantages of starting a consultancy in the UAE

The UAE offers a wide range of benefits for consultancies, such as:

Fast business setup

You can obtain your consultancy license UAE in less than two hours.

Investor benefits

The UAE offers a wide range of financial incentives, including 100% foreign ownership, 100% profit repatriation, rich networking opportunities, and no share capital requirements.

Flexibility

Opening a consultancy in the UAE allows you to manage your own time and clients, with access to customers across the world.

Range of services

You can specialize in a wide variety of industries, from education and engineering to tourism and transportation.

Financial

You can set it up with minimal capital, without compromising on service

Growth

Businesses at the incubation stage are more likely to outsource their strategy and resource management needs – and as a locally-based consultant, you’ll be best placed to capture these opportunities. 

How to grow your consultancy business

Most companies rely on consultancies to help them solve issues as they expand, which means consultants are highly sought after. But as more consultants appear on the market, how do you stand out from the crowd and grow your business?

Reputation and relationships are key. Generating profit is important, but in the beginning, it’s essential to build up good client testimonials. Word of mouth is one of the most powerful ways to secure and maintain a client. To do this, you’ll need to be good at maintaining relationships with your clients. You should also have a good idea of what your competitors are doing and an excellent understanding of how to make your offer better. 

Benefits of being a consultant

Becoming a consultant can open up a whole host of opportunities. Some of these are well-documented, such as good pay and travel perks, but others are often overlooked.

For instance, as a consultant you’ll be able to tap into a larger pool of job opportunities. A cursory search on the internet will back this up – the current global estimated value of the industry now stands at around $250 billion. Networking is practically part of the job description, and you’ll get the opportunity to interact with a wide variety of contacts that may prove useful in the future too.

This style of working can be exciting also, as it offers greater diversity than most jobs. Being a consultant means taking on different projects that can broaden your expertise significantly. Every job looks different, which means even in speciality areas of focus you’re likely to engage with broader functions of the company, such as finance and human resources. It means you can rapidly try out new industries, areas and geographies to discover what you like best.

Working as a consultant can also help you refine your skills and learn new ones at the same time. As a consultant, training needs to happen at speed, so you’ll quickly become an expert. Projects tend to be fast paced and require more interaction with your teams. This inevitably means that you can learn faster, stay ahead of trends and will be able to capitalize on more growth opportunities. This can boost your CV, thus making you more employable too.

Why choose SPC Free Zone?

SPC Free Zone offers fast and flexible business setup in the UAE. Our expert advisors will guide you through each step of your consultancy license UAE application to ensure that the process is as quick and seamless as possible. Conveniently located in the heart of Sharjah with immigration services onsite, you can receive your consultancy license in under two hours.

We offer over 1,500 business activities and up to 20 visas under one consultancy trading license. Our clients also enjoy competitive benefits such as 100% foreign ownership with zero paid-up capital and a dual-license option that offers both mainland and free zone on the same license.

Ready to expand your business and start reaping the rewards the UAE offers? Get in touch with our advisors to find out more about how SPC Free Zone can help.

Want to pave your way to success with Business Ideas in Dubai?

Uncover the secrets of success where innovation and opportunity converge in this global business playground. Explore the possibilities of Business Setup in Dubai today!

#consultancylicenseuae #spcfreezone #businesssetupintheuae

التقاعد مرحلة حياتية جديدة كليّاً، يتطلع إليها البعض للراحة والاسترخاء بعد سنوات طويلة من التعب والاجتهاد، بينما يراها آخرون فرصتهم الثمينة لتحقيق طموحات طال انتظارها. تعتبر ريادة الأعمال إحدى أكثر المشاريع إقبالاً بين المتقاعدين بعد سن الـ 60، بعد أن تخفّ وطأة الأعباء والمسؤوليات التي أحجمتهم قبلاً عن إطلاق مشاريع أحلامهم. نقدم لكم في هذا المقال مشاريع للمتقاعدين وأفكاراً عن أفضل عمل بعد التقاعد.

1. الخدمات الاستشارية

مسيرة عمل طويلة تعني كنزاً ثميناً من الخبرة التي يسعى الكثيرون للاستفادة منه. تعتبر الخبرة في بعض الاختصاصات سلعة بالغة الأهمية، و أفضل استثمار بعد التقاعد، حيث تعتبر الاستشارات مجال عمل مربح للمتقاعدين، ناهيكم عن سهولة إطلاق مثل هذا المشروع بالاعتماد على الخبرة.

2. التجارة الإلكترونية

تعتبر التجارة الإلكترونية أفضل مشروع بعد سن المعاش لاستغلال المواهب والاهتمامات وتحويلها إلى أرباح بعد التقاعد. توفر بعد المواقع الإلكترونية مثل أمازون ونون منصة رائعة لعرض السلع والأعمال اليدوية وبيعها على نحو واسع، بالإضافة لإمكانية تأسيس متاجر بيع إلكترونية على منصات التواصل الاجتماعي مثل فيسبوك وإنستغرام والتي تتميز بسهولة التسويق عبرها ووصولها إلى عدد غير محدود من المستهلكين.

3. التدوين/ كتابة المحتوى

للكتابة المستقلّة سوق عمل قوي ازداد اتساعه مؤخراً بعد توجه المزيد من الأعمال نحو تسويق نشاطاتها إلكترونياً مما يستوجب الاستعانة بوكالات إعلان وكتّاب مستقلين لابتكار محتوى لمواقعهم وصفحاتهم وإيصال صوتهم للمستهلكين. يعتبر هذا المجال أسهل مشروع بعد التقاعد، فكل ما تحتاجونه هو حاسوب وعقل مبدع لتنطلقوا بعدها في عالم الكتابة الإبداعية للشركات والعلامات التجارية.

4. الامتياز التجاري

يعتبر الامتياز التجاري أحد الأمثلة الرائعة على الدخل المستمر، حيث يكون مانح الامتياز هو المسؤول عن اتخاذ معظم القرارات الأساسية المتعلقة بالمشروع، كقوائم الطعام مثلاً أو التصميم الداخلي، هذا من شأنه أن يخفف عبئ تكلفة الاستثمار الأولية والأبحاث المطلوبة لبدء المشروع عن كاهل الحاصل على الامتياز. 

5. التعليم الخاص

إذا كان التعليم شغفكم وتمتلكون موهبة مميزة في إيصال المعلومات فإن التعليم الخاص هو أفضل عمل بعد التقاعد المبكر، وخصوصاً إذا أكسبتكم مسيرتكم المهنية خبرة عميقة في المجال الذي ترغبون التعليم فيه.

6. الطبخ المنزلي

إذا كنتم تمتلكون موهبة خاصة في الطهي أو الخبز فلمَ لا تحولونها إلى مهنة حقيقية ومربحة؟ يمكن بدء هذا المشروع على نطاق ضيق، كطلبات صغيرة بين الأهل والأصدقاء، ليتوسع فيما بعد بالاستعانة بمنصات التسويق مثل وسائل التواصل الاجتماعي.

7. خدمات المنامة والفطور

مهنة مميزة تجمع العمل والضيافة معاً. إذا كنتم تمتلكون منزلاً ترغبون باستثماره أو حتى بيتاً واسعاً مع غرف إضافية، فلمَ لا تستغلونه باستقبال الضيوف وتحويله إلى مصدر كسب إضافي؟

8. التدريب /التوجيه الحياتي

في ظلّ الظروف التي شهدها العالم مؤخراً وتزايد التركيز على الصحة العقلية والنفسية لأفراد المجتمع، تنامى الإقبال على مدربي الحياة للاستفادة من خبراتهم ونصائحهم في اتخاذ القرارات الحياتية وحلّ المشكلات. تتميّز هذه المهنة بكونها من مشاريع بعد التقاعد ذات التأثير الإيجابي والفعال على المجتمع.

9. الاستشارات المالية

يواجه الكثيرون صعوبة في إدارة أمورهم المالية والتعامل مع الضرائب وغيرها من التفاصيل القانونية والمالية. من هنا الخبرة المالية هي أفضل استثمار بعد التقاعد لتقديم الاستشارات وتحويلها إلى مهنة مربحة ومفيدة.

10. بيع الزهور / البستنة

يملك البعض موهبة خاصة في التعامل مع النباتات تحوّل أي مساحة صغيرة من التربة إلى حديقة غنّاء، مما يجعل الزراعة أو بيع الزهور أفضل عمل بعد التقاعد، بالإضافة لسهولة البدء بهذه المشاريع وتكاليفها المنخفضة نسبياً.

ليس على التقاعد بالضرورة أن يكون نهاية لمرحلة العمل والإنتاج، بل قد يكون بداية أكثر متعة وإفادة تتحقق فيها الطموحات، وفريق خبرائنا في المنطقة الحرّة لمدينة الشارقة للنشر جاهزون لمساعدتكم على الانطلاق في هذه الرحلة!هل تتساءل: ماذا افعل بعد التقاعد؟ تواصل معنا اليوم!

Many entrepreneurs and investors flock to the UAE to start the business of their dreams. Due to the ease of business setup in Sharjah as well as its lucrative market filled with high spenders, the country shows active encouragement for those who wish to start a business of their own. Even in the online sphere, the country stands out amongst the rest. With an E-commerce market valuation of over US $10 billion, the UAE is a leader within the MENA region, which is astounding considering its population. Over 81% of the UAE’s adult population engages in online shopping, purchasing products through various online platforms. 

However, as a new or aspiring entrepreneur, there may exist a few misconceptions regarding setting up an e-commerce store that are completely different from reality. In this article, we will break down the 5 biggest myths surrounding e-commerce business in Dubai, UAE

Myth 1: Setting up an online store is inexpensive

The biggest myth surrounding the e-commerce business in Dubai, UAE space is that starting one is inexpensive. This, however, is far from the true scenario. E-commerce businesses may be cheaper than your average brick-and-mortar store, but they are by no means ‘cheap’. Underestimating how much you will need to start your online business is the first pitfall that can ruin everything before it can even begin. Assess the costs that your business will need to incur, from one-time investments to minor everyday items. A budget can give you an idea of how much it will cost on average to start and maintain your online business.

Myth 2: Starting an online business is easy

Though you may not have to go down the more traditional means of starting a business, the effort to start and maintain a successful e-commerce business in Dubai, UAE should not be downplayed. Lack of insight and expertise in the field can make your business blend in with the hundreds of stores that exist online. Continuously creating strategies to garner user attention and lead conversions is part and parcel of the online business process and can enable your business to stand out amongst the rest.

Myth 3: A great website is the key to business success

An intuitive website with sleek design should not be the end goal of an online business, but rather a starting point to convince the user that the business provides great offerings. Focusing solely on web design can backfire on your business, since users will leave as soon as they realize that there is no actual substantial content on the website. Creating a website that is interactive and aesthetic while prioritizing the content, products, and services the business offers is a great balance that can boost your business’ reputation and revenue. This is a key area to keep in mind while starting an e-commerce business in Dubai, UAE

Myth 4: Low prices can boost sales

The trend with most e-commerce giants like Amazon show that online sales and low prices are what makes e-commerce a successful mode of business. This low-cost model is not viable for most businesses. Underselling your products for long periods of time can mean decreased profits and can position your business as a store that always provides low-cost items in the minds of the consumers, making it difficult to maintain proper pricing strategies. Setting effective pricing strategies with the occasional sale held a couple of times a year can create a realistic and long-term model that your business can follow and thrive off of.

Myth 5: Modes of payment aren’t important

Many new online entrepreneurs neglect payment modes and how online payments function on their e-store. Overlooking this aspect can mean losing customers over something that is completely avoidable. Creating effective modes of payment, whether that be through debit/credit cards, Apple/Samsung pay, or cash on delivery, can boost your business’ reach effectively. Moreover, for those who prefer online payment, creating a safe and secure payment gateway is crucial in making sure that your customer has a great shopping experience from beginning to end.

Now that you are aware of the myths and realities of setting up an e-commerce business in Dubai, UAE, here are the steps involved in setting up your ecommerce business:

How to set up an e-commerce business in Dubai, UAE:

1. Choose your line of business and business license

Once you’ve decided to start your business online, it’s time to decide what services or products you’d like to sell. It can be anything from pottery to electronics, the sky is the limit. Based on your choice of economic activity, you can begin to decide your license type. Some business activities may require more than one license or a different license altogether, but most firms opt for an E-commerce license to start their operations. This license covers most business activities across various online platforms and allows for the trading of goods and services through the medium of the internet.

2. Choose the correct jurisdiction and acquire a trade license

Choosing between a Free Zone and the mainland can entirely rely on the character of your online business. A mainland provides you the liberty to trade or sell your product and services on to the native market whereas a Free Zone license would force you to figure with an area distributor. In this case, consider the influences from which your business can profit more in terms of market reach and scalability.

3. Develop, build, and launch your website

The most vital side of your e-commerce business is your website. It may take time to test & build your website, however, it’s worth the time and energy because it can function as your platform to showcase your product or services, a platform to achieve and gain customers, and your primary tool for creating profits. Therefore, to build a profit-generating website you have got to keep the following things in check – its user-friendliness, net maintenance, secure hosting, and mobile usability among different things.

4. Include online payment gateways

As an e-commerce business in Dubai, UAE, it’s necessary to give customers different payment choices. Integrated secure payment gateways that embrace MasterCard payments and postpaid card systems are the foremost convenient ways. Another payment choice is cash-on-delivery (COD), which comes in handy during other times.

5. Secure supply, storage, and delivery

If your online business involves a physical product to sell or trade, it’s obligatory to possess correct warehousing to store your product. This issue is equally vital while deciding the jurisdiction to set up your company. Once you secure a warehouse and workplace house, a subsequent issue on your list is to ascertain a reliable supply system to make sure that the products are delivered efficiently to your shoppers. You can go for a third-party supplier or build your own.

6. Market your product or services

Once your business is prepared to roll into the market with everything in check, everything still boils right down to your selling strategy. The most effective way is by targeting the correct market for your product and services. Consequently, make an effective marketing plan that aligns your product and services to the requirements and needs of your target shoppers.
These are some of the steps you would like to contemplate before beginning an e-commerce business within the UAE.

Why set up your e-commerce business in Dubai, UAE in a free zone?

Setting up an ecommerce business in a free zone in the UAE can provide several benefits, such as:

1. 100% foreign ownership: In free zones, foreigners can own 100% of the business, unlike mainland companies in the UAE where a local sponsor is required.
2. Tax exemption: Free zones offer financial incentives such as no customs duty.
3. Easy company setup: Setting up a business in a free zone is relatively quick and easy, with streamlined procedures for licensing, registration, and visa processing.
4. Access to a large market: The UAE is a hub for international trade, making it an ideal location to access markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
5. Infrastructure: Free zones offer state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities, such as high-speed internet, modern offices, and warehouses, which are essential for running an ecommerce business.
6. Regulatory framework: Free zones have their own regulatory framework, which is designed to facilitate business operations and provide a favorable business environment.
7. Security and stability: The UAE is known for its stable political and economic environment, making it a secure location to do business.

Overall, setting up an ecommerce business in a free zone in the UAE can provide numerous advantages, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish a business in the region.

Why choose SPCFZ?

Setting up a business is exhilarating and it’s getting quicker, easier and cheaper all the time, which is great for YOU, the entrepreneur. At SPC Free Zone, we will support you to understand your circumstances relating to your UAE residency situation and requirements (which can affect how you set up your business); what you are wanting to sell online, and whether those products are apt for the UAE, and understand who your target markets are, e.g., individuals, government or private sector businesses. All of these pieces of information can and will affect the type of e-commerce license that you will need.

To get started with setting up your own e-commerce business contact us now at 800 SPCFZ (77239)

Want to pave your way to success with Business Ideas in Dubai?

Uncover the secrets of success where innovation and opportunity converge in this global business playground. Explore the possibilities of Business Setup in Dubai today!

The UAE is well known for its business-friendly climate and initiatives that allow businesses to thrive. The scope of reach is not only limited to business aid, but also includes the promotion of women-run companies within the country. As a testament to the country’s drive to create a female-friendly business environment, many women entrepreneurs have started the business of their dreams and thrived. In this article, we explore some of the top companies that are run and owned by women in the UAE.

1. Mumz World by Mona Ataya

Mona Ataya is a leading entrepreneur and pioneer within the region. She started her renowned brand – Mumz World, when she realized that there was no existence of a company that provided support for mothers who needed advice and aid with purchasing decisions regarding their children. Her aim was to create a company that served to empower mothers and educate them by providing information on various products, enabling them to choose what’s best for their children. She is a stout believer in going after what you want, and being grateful for the experience, whether it be good or bad. Her brand is a reflection of what she values most: which is passion, empowerment, and a will to do right by the customer.

2. Hayawiia by Tahany Taher

Hayawiia is an Emirati-female owned business based in the UAE. The name is inspired from the Arabic term for health, vitality, and vigour. Tahany Taher decided to start the company when she noticed that there were many parents and children with dietary restrictions or allergies, shelling out a fortune to provide for their needs – especially during the pandemic. The motto that drove her to start her company was to enable individuals to fulfil their clean food needs without breaking the bank. The company’s mission is to bring their customers the best clean products at the tap of a finger to their doorstep. They actively promote balanced nutrition and include a broad range of products that cater to allergies, food intolerances, cultural choices, and dietary restrictions. Moreover, they aim to provide everyone with access to healthy and clean living, by providing products that are truly nourishing, at an accessible price point, creating a sustainable outlet to purchase daily nutritional necessities.

 3. Huda Beauty by Huda Kattan

Huda Beauty is one of the world’s fastest-growing beauty brands based in the UAE. It was started by Huda, Mona, and Alya Kattan in 2013, when they launched their first collection of false eyelashes under the brand at Sephora in Dubai Mall. The idea for the brand and its first product came about when Huda did not feel satisfied with the lashes available at the time, often customizing them to suit her better. She found that many were willing to buy these custom lashes and was inspired to start her own brand. Over the years, her brand has continued to achieve mainstream success, with stores all over the world, multiple product lines, and thousands flocking to her website with every new product launch.

4. Malaak by Lily Kandalaft

Malaak Mama and Baby Care is a one-stop shop for expecting families, assisting them through every step of the journey. They provide everything an expecting family needs, from parental classes and feeding and sleeping workshops, to professional maternity nurses and qualified babysitters. Their aim is to provide families with the training and expertise they’ll need to raise a child, hassle-free. Lily Kandalaft came to create the company after she realized how hard it was for her as a new mother to adapt to an entire lifestyle change. By providing pre and postnatal care, she hoped to support other mothers through their beautiful journey towards and during motherhood.

5. The Botanist by Ruby Giroux

The Botanist is a firm that believes that the choices individuals make have power. Making a difference can sometimes be difficult, especially if there aren’t many options available. Ruby Giroux realized this gap and decided to start a company that made it easier and accessible for people to make the right choices and purchase clean and sustainable products at a reasonable price. The company provides sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to dish soap, kitchen sprays, floor cleaners and much more, turning the dream of sustainable living into reality.

Inspired by these innovative women? Start your dream business today! Our business experts here at SPC Free Zone will support you in the process of setting up your business from A to Z. Contact us at 800 SPCFZ to talk to our business consultants and begin your company formation journey today!

The UAE is a country that offers a wide variety of options in terms of business locations and the benefits associated with a particular place. The country is diverse in its economic status, and each Emirate has its own set of advantages that can effectively aid businesses.

Dubai and Sharjah are two of the most economically involved Emirates in terms of business setup and other business-related opportunities. Many flock to these emirates to start a business that is accessible to a large crowd of people and ensures availability of resources. Each emirate offers businesses a different business landscape, that if used right can elevate the business to newer heights. In this article, we explore the various differences between setting up a business in Dubai vs. Sharjah.

1. Trade names

A trade name serves as a business’ identity. It is the official name under which a venture operates and customers, suppliers, and other parties will refer to the venture by this predetermined name. That is why trade name selection is important when setting up your business. Apart from the general process of applying for a trade name, there is one major difference in the trade naming process that differs between the emirates. Sharjah has a regulation that permits only Arabic names for business set-ups. So, the naming pool in Sharjah is limited to words within the Arabic language.

However, Dubai has no such restriction, and companies can freely name themselves based on other languages, as long as it does not break the regulations for trade names. Some of these regulations are related to the use of inappropriate language, religious names, and names of the emirate itself. Similar rules also apply to Sharjah, so the only difference here is the limitation to Arabic names in Sharjah.

2. Company set-up process

The process of setting up your venture also differs between the emirates. Particularly, in Sharjah, third party approvals are required to move certain documents and proceed to the next step. These approvals are not required in Dubai. SPC Free Zone is a free zone based in Sharjah that specializes in helping businesses receive the required approvals with ease, making this difference a minor one.

3. Operational costs

The operational costs involved in running a business from each emirate varies greatly. Sharjah is well known for its affordable cost of rent, and prime locations are still much cheaper compared to Dubai. This factor is incredibly important, as selecting the ‘wrong’ location for your business can lead to financial strain and lack of access to important markets.

4. Licensing

Licensing is one of the most critical aspects of setting up a business, as it directly determines the line of business your venture is legally allowed to engage in. The emirate you choose to settle in has a direct impact on the trade license you’ll be able to acquire. Both Emirates offer a variety of licenses that can best suit what your business has to offer, though Dubai offers flexibility and customization of licenses, and Sharjah provides more affordable licenses that may cost a lot in Dubai.

5. Investors and professional assistance

Dubai is a global emirate that houses a large variety of investors and professionals from various fields. This makes the place a more lucrative area to start business in. However, this does not mean that Sharjah does not have access to these professionals and investors, but rather they do not possess the same scale of resources for businesses within the emirate.

Understanding the know-how and benefits of starting a business in Sharjah and Dubai can be overwhelming at first. At SPC Free Zone, our expert consultants break down the dos and don’ts of company formation and recommend the location that is best suited for your dream business. Contact us at 800 SPC FZ today to start your business venture today.

When setting up a business in the UAE, one of the most crucial areas of concern is the choice of location. Where your business is located determines important factors like ease of access for customers, costs, regulations, and much more. There are a few factors to keep in mind when deciding where you’d like to start your venture. In this article, we explain some factors to consider that may help you choose an ideal location for your business in the UAE.

1. Economic Activity

The economic activity your business engages in ultimately determines what location is ideal for your venture. When you look into your business’ line of activities, it becomes easier to see why you are engaged in that particular line of business and your target audience – whom your business is best suited for. Understanding who your customer is can accurately help you select a location that is closest to the selected demographic. Factors like age, gender, ethnicity, education, and income level are all factors to be considered when developing a profile for who your customers will be.

2. Logistics and infrastructural requirements

A proper location ensures that there is ease of access not only for customers but also for suppliers and employees. If your company engages in the business of imports and exports, it’s better to be closer to ports that have access to logistical networks that can ultimately help your business work well. Additionally, your business must be able to support physical and technological infrastructural requirements in order to be equipped to effectively support your business operations smoothly.

3. Ease of access

Your business should be accessible to two main parties; to customers and suppliers. In an ideal scenario, it must be easily accessible to all parties involved in the process of purchase and sale. Moreover, an easily accessible business is more likely to have customers visit and purchase items due to the aspect of convenience that comes with a place that’s easy to access.

4. Level of Competition

The location your business may be set up in is determined by the level of competition within the area. An area with high levels of competition means that there are more customers likely to drop by and discover your store, but the large number of competitors selling the same or similar products may hinder your business from growing a substantial customer base. On the other hand, if your business is located in an area where the competition is substantially reduced, you can gain a loyal customer base.

However, the lack of competition may also signify the likelihood that there aren’t enough customers to effectively create a strong customer base. It’s important to select a location that maintains a balance between the level of competition between companies in the same industry and the number of customers/buyers within the area.

5. Current and future opportunities

The location of your firm must be able to provide your business with substantial perks. If you choose to set up your business on the mainland, then the location must be able to access the highest number of customers possible. In terms of free zone setups, selecting a free zone that offers the best services for your business can help ease financial as well as other resource-based burdens, due to the perks they provide. SPC Free Zone provides businesses with dual licensing that enables businesses to set up their venture on the mainland and within the free zone as well. This allows for businesses to make the most of both locations, creating access points to customers, suppliers, and other logistical parties.

Additionally, it’s important to look into the future potential of a location before you make your final choice. It’s best to select a location that allows for further expansion and will continue to have significant access to markets years down the line.

To understand more about which location is best suited for your business and how you can set up your business there, contact our expert consultants at 800 SPCFZ (77239) today.

Business models and services are in constant evolution, due to the ever-changing environment that surrounds culture and innovation in industries across the world. As businesses expand themselves onto a more global scale, competition and innovations become more advanced and common, making it difficult to attract customer attention. Only ventures that are able to adapt to the next new thing can last in this dynamic environment. In this article, we explore some of the up-and-coming business trends set to be the forefront of what businesses will follow in 2022.

1. Sustainable business models

As more importance is placed on global scale issues like climate change, businesses are slowly shifting towards more sustainable methods of production, and are also creating goals related to the reduction of carbon emissions. Reducing carbon emissions in production and supply chains is an expensive cost to bear, especially when a business has already set up operations. However, with consumers shifting to a more sustainable shopping lifestyle as well as cut-throat competition among related firms, adopting sustainable business practices is an investment that can aid the business in the long run.

2. Incorporating new technology

Much like business as a whole, technology is ever-evolving and those who adopt them early are heavily rewarded. The trend regarding integrating technology has always been on an incline, with ventures that use technological innovations becoming more efficient with a much lower margin of mistakes. Not only is it incredibly efficient, it also saves the venture a great deal of time and the resources that can be utilized for other business-related matters like expansion.

3. Authenticity

Today’s market is over-saturated, giving customers an endless variety of options to choose from. In this world of excess companies, many customers are making a conscious effort to purchase from brands that have an authentic brand image. This authentic image makes a brand more accessible and friendly, almost transforming a company into a friend that understands your needs. Many ventures have begun investing in marketing campaigns to try and build a ‘real connection’ that is based on a para-social relationship between the company and its customer.

4. Hybrid model of work

The trend of work from home continues even into 2022, but rather than staying at home all day long, hybrid modes are being introduced by companies in order to create a better work/life balance for employees. Many companies have begun bringing employees back into offices in phases, so the introduction of the hybrid model is a great way to give employees the best of both worlds, that is; office and home.

5. Funding and Payment Methods

As the world moves further into the digital landscape, many firms have begun adopting newer forms of payment that utilize the internet and blockchain processes. This includes cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Including new forms of payment widens the scope of accessibility and keeps the venture relevant to a large group of young customers.

6. Global integration

Business trends are pointing towards global-scaled collaborations. Many companies have begun outsourcing their secondary activities, investing all their time and resources into their main business products/services. Collaboration also helps develop products and business processes positively, since manufacturing and other processes are generally outsourced, thus utilizing existing resources for innovation.

Free zones provide a multitude of golden opportunities for businesses who wish to set up their business there. Utilizing these opportunities and staying relevant and in trend can be done with ease using the help of our consultants here at SPC Free Zone. Contact us at 800 SPCFZ (77239) today to capitalize on the opportunities a free zone setup will bring to your business.

The onset of the pandemic has brought about a host of changes, including an inclining trend towards switching the mode of business to online platforms. The internet has proved to be an effective medium through which sales of products and services can be conducted with ease.

As time has passed, more individuals and businesses prefer online modes of transactions and sales rather than a face-to-face interaction that can get awkward and requires more effort. This major change in the market has caused many to start an online business with e-trader or e-commerce license. These licenses are a crucial and mandatory requirement for those who wish to conduct online business activities legally within the borders of the UAE. In this article, we look into what exactly these licenses are, their distinctions, and what may apply to your business.

What is an E-commerce license?

An e-commerce license is a license provided by the UAE government that allows its holders to conduct business activities relating to the purchase and maintenance of product inventories, as well as a legal permission that enables the business to deliver said inventory as well. All of this must be done through the means of an online platform like websites or social media channels for this license to be applicable to the business.

Obtaining the license is a simple process, and can be done either by applying through the relevant authorities within your emirate. If you plan on setting up your business in a free zone, then you can obtain the license through free zone authorities such as SPC Free Zone.

What is an E-trader license?

An e-trader license is a relatively new form of license introduced by the government, where its holders are allowed to carry out online transactions. This license was introduced to enable UAE and GCC nationals to regulate the business activities they conduct on online social media platforms.

Though both seem similar at first, there exist certain characteristics that differentiate them from each other. The notable differences are as follows:

1. E-trader licenses are only applicable to UAE/GCC nationals, whereas e-commerce licenses are applicable to foreign individuals as well.
2. E-trader licenses are only issued for residential sites, meaning that Makani documents must be provided.
3. E-trader licenses enable holders to conduct their business activities on social media platforms, whereas e-commerce licenses allow for other online websites as well.
4. E-trader licenses don’t provide as many business activities as compared to e-commerce licenses.
5. An e-trader license limits the scope of business to be within the borders of the UAE and only allows a sole proprietorship based legal structure, which is a stark difference to e-commerce licenses which give its holders an international reach allowing the sale and purchase of products outside the country, as well as allowing them flexibility in the choice of legal structure.

What applies to you?

Based on the distinctions alone, it’s easy to tell what is applicable to your online business. Nationality, size of the operations, scope of activities, legal structure as well as free zone accessibility all differ when it comes to choosing between an e-trader or e-commerce license.

If you are a foreign investor, it is better for you to obtain an e-commerce license, since e-trader licenses do not apply to those who are not UAE or GCC nationals. If you want to start a large-scale business, e-trader licenses are yet again, not the most apt due to the fact that they cater towards more small scale, run-from-home businesses. Additionally, the business activity you plan to engage in may or may not be covered under the scope of an e-trader license. Analyzing what you want your online business to have can help you decide which license is more apt for your business.

To understand more about which license is best suited for your business and how you can apply, contact our expert consultants at 800 SPC FZ today.

Uncover the secrets of success with our guide to Business Ideas In Dubai, where innovation and opportunity converge in this global business playground.