In this blog, we will discuss how to start an interior firm in UAE. The interior industry in the UAE is one of the most competitive and dynamic in the Middle East. Due to the expansion of real estate and the luxury lifestyle, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are experiencing strong growth. Recent reports also show that the UAE’s interior design sector is worth billions, and that Dubai is a leading hub for interior innovation.
Setting up a business in Dubai is quite straightforward, provided you fulfil all legal requirements. The basic process involves getting a trade license, submitting required documents and meeting regulatory conditions. However, the process is becoming simpler as the government is introducing new business-friendly policies to attract more investors to the country.
UAE’s modern cities offer great opportunities for skilled architects, designers and entrepreneurs. They can also collaborate on projects that blend local culture with global trends. Here, we have discussed how to start an interior design firm in the UAE, the licensing requirements, and other necessary steps to establish your presence in the flourishing interior design industry.
Key Takeaways of the Dubai Interior Design Industry
Here are the notable insights of the Dubai interior design industry in the UAE.
- The UAE’s interior design vertical was worth $3.35 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach about $4.66 by 2029. Dubai is the top contributor to the sector’s growth, accounting for 52.33% of the UAE’s total market share.
- The UAE has about 40% share of the GCC interior design firms.
- Commercial areas such as offices, hospitality and retail are projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.89 by 2030.
- Dubai will have more than 850 licensed interior design firms in 2025.
- Under new legislation, the UAE allows mainland interior design firms to own 100%.
- The UAE interior design market is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.29% between 2025 and 2030.
How to Start an Interior Design Firm in the UAE – Registration Process
Let us look at the process of registering an interior design firm in the UAE. Here are the basic steps you need to follow:
- Choose business type
- Select a legal form of business
- Choose a company name and trademark
- Get NOC
- Prepare legal documents
- Select a physical office
- Pay regulatory dues
- Obtain a business license
Choose Business Type
The first step is selecting the type of business you want to register as. Every business activity falls into a category that you register. If you are providing professional interior design services, you will select the professional services option.
Select Legal Form of Business
You have to choose the type of business you want to form: a sole proprietorship, an LLC, etc. All business types have their own advantages and disadvantages, and Al Riyady can assist you with the legalities of all legal forms of business.
Choose a Company Name & Trademark
Give your business a name and register your trademark, as the trademark laws are strict in the UAE. Pay your fee to reserve the company name within three days.
Get NOC
Get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Dubai Department of Economic Development. It serves as initial permission to continue business operations in the UAE.
Prepare Legal Documents
Get ready for these essential sets of legal documents for regulatory compliance.
- License application
- Complete business plan
- Passport copies of all shareholders (i.e., managers, business partners, and directors).
- Registration form for business registration
- NOC from sponsor
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) notarised
- Articles of Association (AOA) attested
- Sign the local services agreement (LSA)
- Registry Identification Form
- Board resolution and post-dated checks
Select a Physical Office
It is essential to provide details of your business setup and company office. The rent agreement you sign with the landlord will be attested by Ejari. The Real Estate Regulatory Authority requires you to provide initial approval and other necessary documents. Once you provide the attested agreement, you will be issued your trade license.
Pay Regulatory Dues
It costs AED 9500 to register a company in Dubai, inclusive of all the attestation and processing fees. Some costs are one-time, while others are paid yearly.
Obtain Business License
There are various types of business licenses offered in the UAE. Interior design services fall under the professional category; hence, you will need a professional service license.
Interior Designing Business Setup in Mainland Dubai
As you already know, there are two main business setups for interior firms in the UAE. You can either start a company in the Dubai Mainland or in a Free Zone.
- For an interior business in the Dubai Mainland, you need a local sponsor. The local sponsor will own 51% of the company.
- Obtain a business license from the Department of Economic Development (DED).
- Get the business approval form from the Dubai Municipality Authority.
- Rent an office space for your company.
- Collect your license and company incorporation certificate.
Interior Design Company Setup in Dubai Free Zone
First, to set up a business in a Dubai free zone, select one that suits your business activities. The most suitable free zone for interior design is Dubai Design District (D3). The steps to set up a company in a free zone are given below.
- Get approval from the Dubai Design District (D3) authority.
- Apply for your business’s registration by submitting an application form.
- Submit documents along with the registration form.
- Sign the personnel sponsorship, lease documents, and obtain your business license.
- Collect your customer confirmation letter.
Top Mainland Areas to Start an Interior Design Firm in Dubai
These are the top locations to set up an interior design firm in Dubai.
Business Bay
Business Bay is the heart of Dubai’s business landscape and a top place to start an interior design firm. It is known for corporate headquarters, luxury buildings and top-quality offices which demand premium interior design projects. The area’s central location makes it ideal for businesses targeting luxury offices, hotels, and residences.
Sheikh Zayed Road
It is an ideal option for design companies focusing on corporate projects and commercial interiors. The area connects all top business districts, providing access to clients and excellent visibility. Sheikh Zayed Road is ideal for firms that want to blend practicality with modernism in the commercial atmosphere.
Downtown Dubai
It is Dubai’s top luxury location with unmatched opportunities to grow an interior design firm. Surrounded by landmarks such as Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, the area attracts top-tier clients seeking innovative, custom-made designs. The luxury real estate here provides continuous projects in retail and residential interiors.
Deira and Bur Dubai
Both Deira and Bur Dubai are Dubai’s oldest and most established business zones. They offer traditional homes to retail shop interiors and attract a wide range of customers. They are ideal for budget-friendly interior designs without compromising quality and innovation.
Al Quoz
Al Quoz is a trusted area for creative and practical interior design firms. Filled with workshops, art galleries and showrooms, it is a hub for functional design production. An interior design business in Dubai can grow here by accommodating both residential and commercial spaces that value creativity and craftsmanship.
Jumeirah
Jumeirah is known for luxury villas and luxury commercial areas in Dubai. It is a dream location for interior designers looking to attract well-off clients throughout the UAE. With strong demand for minimalist, modern, and elegant interiors, it is suitable for businesses offering luxury residential interior design services.
Al Barsha
Al Barsha is a mixture of commercial and residential spaces and a popular choice for new interior design firms. The area is closer to major hotels and shopping malls. It offers significant growth potential for interior design services for offices, hospitality, and homes.
Top Free Zones for an Interior Design Firm in Dubai
Here are the top free zones for setting up an interior design firm.
Dubai Design District (D3)
D3 is the top destination for interior design companies looking to build a premium brand identity. The free zone promotes collaboration among designers, architects and creative artists. Setting up your business here can help you build contacts and a business profile within the creative business community in Dubai.
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
DMCC offers top-class infrastructure and trade incentives for international interior design firms. The easy business setup and top-class office spaces make DMCC the most popular free zone for international partnerships. Moreover, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) is a related development and a good location for interior design firms.
Dubai Internet City (DIC)
It is a perfect zone for digital and tech-driven interior businesses in Dubai. DIC is the hub of smart interiors, 3D visualisation, and digital architecture. The free zone supports innovation and provides access to experienced professionals in related sectors.
Meydan Free Zone (MFZ)
It is an emerging business destination for interior design and related industries. It provides affordable licenses, modern infrastructure and proximity to Downtown Dubai.
Dubai South Free Zone (DSFZ)
The free zone, located near Maktoum International Airport and Expo City, is a top choice for modern businesses. It offers cost-effective offers and access to new developments. DSFZ is an ideal choice for interior design companies looking to expand into commercial projects and large-scale residential projects.
Reasons to Set Up an Interior Design Firm in Dubai – How to Start an Interior Design Firm in the UAE?
Setting up an interior design firm in Dubai is straightforward if you fulfil all the regulations of the Dubai Government. Here are the top reasons to set up a business in Dubai.
- A stable and free economy
- A world-class infrastructure with business-friendly policies.
- Growing demand for residential and commercial buildings.
- Minimum taxes.
- License options for designers and artists.
Permitted Interior Design Activities
Interior designers can perform the following activities under this license.
- Interior designing and decoration
- Architecture designing
- Concept designing
- Space planning
Forbidden Activities Under the Interior Designing License
Interior designers are forbidden to undertake the following activities under this license.
- Supply of furniture and fixtures
- Display of products of vendors and suppliers in the unauthorised areas.
- Implementation of drawings/blueprints/plans
- Providing interior and exterior drawings for construction.
Start an Interior Design Firm in the UAE With Al Riyady
Interior design is becoming popular in the UAE. If you’re planning to start your interior design company in Dubai, you can partner with Al Riyady to make the process hassle-free and smooth.
Al Riyady can assist you with business setup in mainland Dubai and free zones in the UAE. We can also help you with licensing, documentation, and legal regulations to successfully set up your interior design firm in Dubai.
Final Words
Finally, we hope this article answered your question on how to start an interior design firm in the UAE. The interior design industry has huge growth potential for creative professionals from around the globe. By obtaining the right license, selecting the right legal structure and understanding your target audience, you can help grow your business in the dynamic market of the UAE.
