Start a Salon Business in Dubai 2025

How to Start a Salon Business in Dubai – Full Guide for Indian Entrepreneurs

Dubai is a hotspot for beauty and wellness businesses. With its booming population, high disposable income, and global appeal, opening a salon in Dubai can be a highly rewarding venture, especially for Indian entrepreneurs with experience in the beauty industry.

In this comprehensive blog, we explain how to start a salon business in Dubai from India, including step-by-step licensing, cost structure, legal requirements, and strategic tips for success.

Why Start a Salon in Dubai - Market Overview

Dubai’s beauty and personal care market is valued at over AED 5 billion and continues to grow due to:

• A cosmopolitan population with diverse grooming needs
• High demand for specialized beauty services (bridal, Ayurvedic, hair spas)
• A booming expat and tourist population
• Favorable government policies encouraging women-owned businesses

For Indian salon professionals, Dubai offers the perfect blend of opportunity, infrastructure, and cultural familiarity.

Types of Salon Licenses in Dubai

Dubai issues salon licenses under professional activities regulated by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED).

Ladies’ Salon License (Activity Code 930203)

This allows services such as:

• Haircuts, styling, and coloring
• Skincare, facials, threading
• Manicure/pedicure
• Henna services

Gents’ Salon License (Activity Code 930201)

This license permits:

• Haircuts and beard trimming
• Hair spa and treatment
• Face scrubs and grooming

Note: You cannot combine a Ladies’ and Gents’ Salon under the same license unless you open two separate locations or apply for dual licensing in specific free zones.

Step-by-Step Guide to Open a Salon in Dubai

Step 1: Market Research & Niche Selection

Identify your target audience (Indian expats, tourists, locals) and specialize in:

• Ayurvedic/organic beauty
• Bridal grooming packages
• Express services (men’s haircut, beard trims)

Step 2: Choose Business Structure & Jurisdiction

Options include:

• Mainland License via DED (allows local operations)
• Free Zone License via zones like IFZA or SHAMS (ideal for ecommerce, training, or B2B)

For physical salons serving local customers, Mainland is preferred.

Step 3: Trade Name Reservation & Initial Approval

Submit 3–5 trade name options to DED. Ensure:

• Name is unique and reflects your business
• No religious or political references
• Initial approval from DED is received before proceeding

Step 4: Premises Approval from Dubai Municipality

Choose a commercial property in compliance with:

• Minimum 3.0m width for men’s salons; 3.5m for ladies’ salons
• Separate areas for different services
• Proper water supply, drainage, and ventilation
• Distance from industrial or hazardous zones

Submit floor plans and get clearance from the Public Health & Safety Department under Dubai Municipality.

Step 5: License Submission & Issuance

Submit all approvals, tenancy contract (Ejari), and passport copies of the owners to DED. Pay license issuance fees. Get your Professional License within 3–5 working days.

Step 6: Hire Staff & Apply for Visas

Apply for visas under your salon license:

• Manager visa (mandatory)
• Beauticians, stylists, and helpers
• Comply with Ministry of Labour and Dubai Municipality regulations

Step 7: Design & Setup Salon Space

Get interior layout approved. Furnish the space with:

• Approved salon chairs and stations
• Sterilization and hygiene stations
• Staff changing areas and washrooms
• Display shelves for products (optional retail license)

Step 8: Marketing & Launch Strategies

Use:

• Google My Business & social media
• Local influencers in beauty niche
• Discounts for referrals and loyalty programs

Documents Required for Salon License

• Passport copy of owner(s) and partners

• Passport-sized photos
• Trade name reservation
• Tenancy contract (Ejari)
• Initial approval from DED
• Floor plan and layout approved by Dubai Municipality
• Attested qualification certificates (for manager)

Legal & Regulatory Considerations

• DED Regulations: All professional activities must be approved by DED with valid office/shop space.
• Dubai Municipality Guidelines: Salon layout, hygiene, sterilization, and product use must meet UAE health and safety standards.
• UAE Corporate Tax Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022): Not applicable unless profits exceed AED 375,000 annually.
• Labour Law Compliance: Hire certified staff, maintain contracts, offer insurance and accommodation.

Pros & Cons of Starting a Salon in Dubai

Pros:

• High consumer demand across genders and age groups
• Tax-free income below AED 375,000
• Full foreign ownership is possible
• Repatriation of profits to India

Cons:

• Initial investment required for setup
• Competitive market; branding is crucial
• Staff visa & compliance responsibilities

Why Indian Pros Should Choose Dubai

• Familiarity with beauty culture and services

• Large Indian expat population
• Access to suppliers, training, and product distributors
• Strong earning potential compared to India
• Pathway to UAE residence visa and long-term stability

Why Choose Flyingcolour Business Setup?

At Flyingcolour, we specialize in salon license setup in Dubai for Indian entrepreneurs. Our team ensures:

• Trade name reservation & licensing
• Staff visa processing
• Bank account assistance
• Ongoing compliance and renewals

We’ve helped over 18,000+ clients setup and grow their business in Dubai.

FAQs – Salon Business in Dubai

1. Can I open a salon in Dubai without living there?

Yes, but you’ll need to appoint a resident manager to run operations. However, for visa benefits, a visit is recommended.

2. Can I hire Indian staff for my salon?

Yes, after registering with the Ministry of Labour, you can sponsor Indian beauticians, provided they meet experience/qualification criteria.

3. Do I need a local partner?

No. Under current rules, professional licenses allow 100% foreign ownership in Dubai Mainland.

4. Can I sell beauty products in the salon?

Yes, with an additional retail activity license attached to your salon trade license.

5. What’s the processing time to open a salon?

Typically 2–4 weeks, depending on document readiness and interior approvals.