Dubai has a global reputation for big industry. From healthcare and hospitality to technology and tourism, some of the world’s biggest names do business out here.
But for every international conglomerate, sky high office and multi-billion dollar deal, there’s a startup or SME seeing success out here. One industry that is often overlooked is cleaning. An essential but unglamourous service, it is in high demand throughout Dubai.
With thousands of businesses in the emirate and a population that’s more than happy to pay for domestic services, there is a large and growing audience for cleaning services. So if you’ve got the skills and determination to make it in this space, this article will explain how to start a cleaning company in Dubai.
Cleaning industry in Dubai: An overview
The UAE cleaning industry is not only large. It is set to grow year on year. The total market, currently valued at USD 9bn is expected to see a CAGR of 5.6% up to 2030.
There are numerous factors behind this growth. Of course, cleanliness is a key component of professionalism. So Dubai’s businesses are committed to maintaining clean and tidy premises at all times. Many industries must keep a clean and sterile environment due to the nature of their work. This includes healthcare, pet care, hospitality and food services.
On top of this, there is a large private audience. Many of Dubai’s residents are rich in disposable income and poor in time. Perfect conditions for a cleaning business to offer its services.
Within this vast industry are numerous types of businesses, from window cleaners and maids to commercial and industrial cleaners.
How to start a cleaning business in Dubai: Step-by-step
While the process of starting a cleaning business in Dubai can seem daunting. With the right support, it’s anything but. When you work with the team at Creative Zone, we’ll help you launch your business in just four simple steps.
Step 1: Outline your activities
The first step when starting a business anywhere in the UAE is to outline your intended activities. Failure to do so can cause issues further down the line and carrying out unlicensed activities may lead to fines or even license revocation.
There are many options to choose from, including janitor services, office cleaning, mobile cleaning, and so on.
Your stated activities must be chosen from the official list published by Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED). The team at Creative Zone will help ensure that you have the correct approvals to run your business.
Step 2: Choose your company name
The second step is equally important: choosing a company name. There are a few key things to keep in mind at this stage – many that would not apply anywhere else in the world.
Be aware that you must abide by a strict set of naming conventions. In short, you should avoid any offensive or blasphemous language. Avoid names of well-known organisations and avoid abbreviations if naming your company after yourself – i.e. Dave Mann Consulting, rather than D Mann Consulting. You must also check that your chosen name is available to register.
Step 3: Making your license application
You will require a trade license to start a cleaning company in Dubai. This is issued by the Dubai Department of Economic Development and you can make your application online. Once again, the Creative Zone team will guide you through this process. Get in touch to find out more.
Depending on the nature of your services, you may also require additional approvals from the Dubai Municipality.
Step 4: Making your visa applications
Finally, you’ll need to organise your visas. With the right guidance, the visa application process can be incredibly straightforward. As well as making your application, you’ll be required to submit biometric information and undergo a medical fitness test.
As the holder of a UAE business license, you can also sponsor others for their visas too. This could be a spouse, parent or child, or a domestic worker such as a housekeeper. The maximum number of visas you can apply for will depend on the size of your company, your chosen setup and, for dependant visas, your personal earnings.
Benefits of starting a cleaning business in Dubai
High and consistent demand
Dubai’s large corporate sector and affluent residents mean cleaning services are always in high demand. Gain a reputation for quality and you will find a ready and willing audience of potential clients.
Low barriers to entry
There are no specific qualifications or requirements to start a cleaning company in the UAE. Provided you have the skills and the equipment necessary to do the job – and a valid trade license – you can get to work.
Contract opportunities
With so many business centres, office spaces and large organisations in Dubai, there is high potential for long-term and lucrative contracts. This makes it easier to generate recurring revenue and grow your operation.
How to grow your cleaning business in Dubai
Offer premium services
Dubai’s businesses and residents are known to pay a premium for high quality services. If you can show that your service is a cut above the rest, you should have no trouble charging more. A reputation for quality will also help you attract new customers through word of mouth referrals.
Focus on corporate work
Winning a contract with a large employer or business space operator is one of the fastest ways to grow your business. With just one client, you could go from zero jobs to a packed schedule.
Invest in tech
Putting money back into your business is one of the best investments you can make. Look for cleaning tech or innovative products that can help you increase both efficiency and the quality of your work.
Start your cleaning business with Creative Zone
Starting a cleaning business in Dubai can be a complicated process – particularly if you’re new to working in the UAE.
That’s why selecting the right partner is a critical step when looking to launch or grow a business out here. As the Middle East’s most trusted advisor on business setup in Dubai, Creative Zone has been empowering entrepreneurs and SMEs with comprehensive support since 2010. With a strong reputation for assisting businesses locally and globally, we offer a complete range of solutions for all your business setup needs.
When you work with us, you get fast, reliable and unbiased advice on your unique business setup requirements. We can help you choose the right kind of license for your business activity and take you through the entire process from start to finish.
We’re here to assist every step of the way. No matter your chosen activities, legal entity or visa requirements, we’re on hand with support, guidance and expertise.
Contact us today to kickstart your business in Dubai.
