Yet, navigating the process, particularly when dealing with the Department of Economic Development (DED), can quickly become a frustrating and resource-draining exercise.

At the heart of the issue lies a simple but significant problem: communication.

The Communication Breakdown

For many would-be business owners, the journey begins online. Unfortunately, this is also where things often start to go wrong. The DED’s digital presence is fragmented, with outdated information, inconsistent updates, and a noticeable absence of a reliable “source of truth.” Entrepreneurs are frequently left relying on anecdotal advice, unofficial forums, or unverified intermediaries – all of which can easily lead to errors.

And even minor mistakes – like a misfiled document or an overlooked detail – can snowball into costly delays. Without a centralised, accurate hub of official information, setting up a company becomes more about guesswork than strategy.

The Moving Goalposts of Regulation

To make matters more complex, the rules themselves are far from static. DED processes and requirements evolve regularly, and these changes often come with little or no public notice. By the time an update is reflected online, it may already be outdated.

This state of flux can leave even seasoned investors feeling disoriented. One day your documents are in order; the next, a new regulation renders them incomplete. Every misstep adds to your timeline and chips away at your launch budget.

Special Approvals: The Hidden Hurdles

Then there are the sector-specific approvals – an often-overlooked aspect of the setup process. While some businesses may only need a Dubai Municipality nod, others, especially those in education or health and wellness, must secure more complex permissions.

For instance, education-based ventures require approval from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), while medical-related businesses must go through the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). These approvals come with their own processes, timelines, and costs. And if you don’t know about them from the start, they can seriously derail your schedule.

The DED setup process in the UAE can feel like a maze – one filled with dead ends, detours, and confusing signage. But with Luxe Incorporations by your side, you don’t have to navigate it alone. We remove the guesswork, replace it with certainty, and guide you from start to success with clarity and confidence. Get in touch today! 

James Clements is a Relationship Manager at Luxe Incorporations.
[email protected]
+971 54 266 5958