Starting a Veterinary Business in Dubai
With an annual growth rate of 7% and an estimated 500,000 pets calling the city home, Dubai is a promising market for veterinary clinics and animal healthcare services of all scales. From diagnosing medical conditions and treating diseases to preventative care, Dubai has an increased demand for veterinary specialists.
This need is expected to grow with its population, making it a lucrative investment for entrepreneurs who want to exploit an expanding market. You've come to the right place if you're in the animal healthcare industry and want information about starting your vet business in Dubai.
Below, we'll explore the process of forming your animal healthcare business in the UAE and cover all the steps you want to take to achieve the best results.
The Advantages of Business Setup in the UAE's Veterinary Sector
Dubai is calling all vets and animal healthcare specialists with incentives that make starting your business easy and rewarding. Companies here take advantage of:
- 0% Corporate Tax
- Business-friendly Regulations
- No Need for Sponsorship
- Full Repatriation of Profits
- Modern Infrastructure
- Hassle-free Licensing Experience
With a growing demand and a promising market, veterinarians, medical professionals, and entrepreneurs can take advantage of a consistently expanding industry.
The Steps to Start a Veterinary Clinic in Dubai
Before breaking ground on your business endeavors, you must go through several steps and secure a business license. You'll want to start by:
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Develop a Business Plan Your first step will be to create a detailed business plan with market demand data, a competitive analysis, and a full spectrum of financial planning to account for any extra expenses.
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Choose Your Business Location One of the most significant decisions of the business formation process will be to choose your location. You'll have the choice between:
Mainland Dubai's mainland license allows you to operate anywhere within Dubai without restrictions.
Free Zones Free zones are independent business jurisdictions that offer a wide range of benefits, including 0% tax rates, 100% foreign ownership, and business-forward policies. However, businesses here are limited to operating within their jurisdiction. -
Obtain Necessary Pre-Approvals Some healthcare-based businesses will require special pre-approvals from agencies and institutions. You'll want to obtain any needed pre-approvals before submitting a license application.
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Choose a Business Name All good businesses will need a name. Choose a name that represents your company, and submit a request to the relevant authorities. You'll want to take special care to avoid any previously used names or terms that violate the UAE's regulations on profanity.
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Pick a Legal Structure Your business's legal structure will determine how you handle assets, debts, and overall finances. You'll be able to choose between:
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Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) An LLC is a legal structure that limits a venture's risk to that of the initial capital. It's an excellent option for small startups wanting to enter the market without much financial liability.
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Sole ProprietorshipsThis legal setup is for businesses backed by a single investor that maintains full financial responsibility for its operation.
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Branch of Existing CompanyA branch is a legal structure for businesses under a larger corporation's control. It's a go-to choice for individuals wanting to bring certain established brands into new territory.
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Gather Documents and Submit Licensing ApplicationThe next step in the process will be to gather all the required documentation and apply for your veterinary clinic license.
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Obtain Office Space and EquipmentYou'll want to lease office space in a location that offers easy access and ideal traffic numbers. Additionally, you'll need to source all the necessary equipment, such as X-ray machines, scanners, kennels, ventilation, lighting, and more.
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Secure Visa, if NecessaryYou must obtain a visa if you're entering the country as a foreign investor. This may be an investor visa, a freelance visa, or the Golden visa for extended residency benefits.
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Pay Fees and Obtain a LicenseYou'll receive your business license once you've paid the required fees. This license gives you the ability to operate legally within your jurisdiction.
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Open Bank AccountYour final step will be to open a corporate bank account with one of our nationally recognized banking institutions. A bank account will allow you to exchange money, accept and process different currencies, and track sales and financial transactions.
Required Documents for Starting a Dubai Vet Clinic
When submitting your duly completed license application, you'll be required to include the following information:
- Proof of Trade Name
- Business Plan
- Signed Lease
- Memorandum of Association
- Copies of Passports for All Shareholders
- All Pre-Approvals
The Cost of Launching a Vet Clinic in Dubai
In most cases, you can expect the cost of forming your vet clinic in Dubai to range between AED 500,000 and AED 1,000,000, depending on licensing fees, lease costs, equipment, employee salaries, and visa costs.
You'll want to work closely with a trusted consultant expert to determine the full cost of business setup in Dubai and how to minimize startup expenses.
Permits Required to Open a Vet Clinic in Dubai
Since vets and veterinary healthcare professionals work in a strict field, there are several pre-approvals you'll need to secure before opening your clinic. These approvals include:
- Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) The MOCCAE inspects your business to determine that it meets sanitation, waste disposal, licensing, and ethical animal treatment standards.
- Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) If your business uses X-ray equipment and scanning technology, you must secure a special license from FANR.
- Licensing Every employee on your team must hold a degree and a valid license to operate from the MOCCAE. This license is suitable for one year and must be renewed annually.
MSZ Consultancy Can Help You Start Your Vet Business in Dubai
With a talented team of consultants and years of on-the-ground experience, MSZ Consultancy is ready to help you get your business plans moving. We have the expertise to guide you through the business setup process, from licensing and establishing legal structures to managing annual renewals. We can assist with visa applications, auditing, and day-to-day operations that limit your potential. We have experience with single investors, foreign investment, and larger corporate branches. Regardless of industry or scale, we can guide your business to smarter investments and better results. Call our experts today at +971 52 544 1248 for a FREE consultation. We'll create a custom business plan and show you how your vet business in Dubai can go further.
FAQS About Setting Up a Vet Clinic in Dubai
Are you interested in veterinary medicine and have questions about business setup in Dubai? Below, we've answered some of the common questions we receive on the topic:
What license do I need to start a vet clinic in Dubai?
Answer: To start a veterinary clinic, you must obtain a professional trade license from the Department of Economic Development or relevant free zone authority.
How much does it cost to start a vet clinic in Dubai?
Answer: You can expect startup costs to range between AED 500,000 and AED 1,000,000, depending on licensing costs, fees, lease expenses, and more.
Can I qualify for a Golden Visa if I start a vet clinic in Dubai?
Answer: Yes. If your business qualifies, you can secure a Golden Visa that offers a 10-year residency.
Can a foreign investor own a veterinary clinic in Dubai?
Answer: Yes. Foreigners are permitted 100% ownership of their businesses without needing a national sponsor.
