Start a software company in Dubai and join a growing community of nearly 250,000 IT professionals. Many Dubai software companies began with just five members and have grown to over 150 employees. UAE software developers are highly skilled in computer networking, and software engineering, utilising IoT, AI, and cloud computing for the web.
Starting a software company in Dubai is an exciting opportunity due to its business-friendly environment, strategic location, and strong tech support. The city’s government policies and modern infrastructure help new businesses grow quickly.
If you want to set up a software company in Dubai, you’ll find a welcoming market ready for new and innovative tech solutions.
Benefits of starting a Software Company in Dubai
Before knowing the steps to start a software company in Dubai, you need to know the top benefits of a software company.
1. Business-Friendly Environment
Dubai’s business environment is better than that of other countries. Supportive government policies and tax incentives help entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE.
2. 100% Ownership
You can enjoy 100% ownership of your business in the Freezone; on the Mainland, you get 100% ownership for most of the business activities.
3. Advanced Infrastructure
Modern tech parks are specially designed areas equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and resources made for tech companies and startups.
4. Skilled Workforce
Accessing many skilled professionals means businesses can find the right talent for their needs, whether for software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, or other tech-related fields.
5. Innovation Opportunities
High demand drives innovation, encouraging companies and entrepreneurs to develop new products, services, and technologies. It creates a fertile environment for startups and established businesses to experiment with new ideas and technologies to meet market needs.
6. Networking
Industry events, such as conferences, seminars, and trade shows, provide platforms for networking, learning about the latest trends, and meeting potential partners, clients, and collaborators.
7. Quality of Life
A high standard of living means that residents enjoy high-quality services and amenities, which contribute to their overall well-being and satisfaction.
Top 10 Software Companies in Dubai & UAE
Below are the top 10 software companies in Dubai and the UAE, leading tech innovation.
| Company | Focus services |
| Techgrospe |
|
| Chukalov |
|
| Shakuro |
|
| Websailor |
|
| Diginix AI |
|
| Rasberry |
|
| GCC Marketing |
|
| Appstirr |
|
| Blink22 |
|
Types of Software Companies in Dubai
There are different types of Software Companies in Dubai, it are as follows:
- Mobile App Development: Designing apps for smartphones and tablets across various platforms.
- Web Development: Creating and maintaining websites for businesses and individuals
- Custom Software Development: Building tailored software solutions to meet business needs.
- Cloud Computing Services: Offering cloud storage, computing power, and related services.
- Cybersecurity Services: Providing protection against cyber threats and ensuring data security.
- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: Implementing integrated software solutions to manage business processes.
- Game Development: Designing video games for consoles, PCs, and mobile devices.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Developing AI and ML solutions for automation and data analysis.
Note: There are other types of software in Dubai, not just restricted to the one mentioned above.
How to Open a Software Company in Dubai?
Below are the steps to help you open a software company in Dubai. These steps might seem overwhelming, but they are easy if done correctly.
If you get stuck on any of the steps below, you can contact our Shuraa experts, and our team will be happy to answer your questions.
1. Select a Business Location
Choosing a business location is one of the most crucial steps. The UAE has three business zones.
- Mainland Company: Can operate anywhere within UAE and internationally.
- Free Zone Company: 100% ownership and exemption on taxes
- Offshore Company: Mainly for export and import business or international trading.
You can choose preferable jurisdictions depending on your business needs and activities.
2. Register your company name
The next step is to choose a trade name and register it with the DED, or Department of Economic Development. Before choosing a name, you must follow the DED guidelines.
Avoid names that have already been taken by other companies. Once you choose a trade name, you need to get approval for it.
3. Choosing a legal structure
The right legal structure is crucial when starting a software company in Dubai. Here are the standard options:
- Limited liability company (LLC), the most popular
- Sole Establishment
- GCC company branch
- Local company branch
- Free zone company branch
- Foreign company branch
Getting the necessary business license becomes easy once you decide on your business’s legal structure.
4. Get License Approvals
The next step is to get the software company license in UAE approvals from the DED. There are generally four types of business licenses available in the UAE:
- Professional License
- Commercial License
- Tourism License
- Industrial License
You can choose a professional license for a software company in UAE. This license also permits 100% foreign ownership and the flexibility to operate as a single owner. Depending on your business activity, you might require additional approvals from the concerned authority.
5. Employment Visas and Permits
If you want employees to work in your company, you must sponsor their visas through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs Dubai (GDRFA).
Employment contracts, passport copies, fitness certificates, and business owners’ residence visas are required documents for the immigration process.
6. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Opening a corporate bank account in the UAE is relatively easy. This will help you keep track of your business transactions and see your business’s cash flow. If you need any help opening a corporate bank account, you can contact Shuraa.
Documents Required to open a Software Company in Dubai
Below are the documents required to open a software company in the UAE:
- Business plan
- Memorandum of Association (MOA), if applicable
- Trade name approval
- Additional documents as per your business activity and location
- Passport-size photograph
- Entry stamp or Visa page
- Passport copy of the shareholders
Cost of opening a software company in Dubai
The cost of opening a software company in Dubai ranges from AED 6,200* to AED 30, 000*(around USD 1,687 to USD 8,167). The exact cost depends on your jurisdiction and business activities. If you are setting up a software company in Dubai and want to know the exact cost, contact Shuraa today.
Setting Up Your Software Company with Shuraa
Starting a software company in Dubai is an exciting opportunity, and Shuraa is here to make it easy for you. We will guide you through every step, from choosing the right location and legal structure to getting the necessary licenses and permits.
Our team handles all the paperwork and helps you with local regulations. With Shuraa, you can focus on building your business while we handle the setup process. Reach out to Shuraa today and let us help you establish your software company in Dubai’s booming tech scene.