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Dubai is a hub for a variety of flourishing opportunities, meaning passionate entrepreneurs can find their niche and enjoy success in this global city. Amidst Dubai’s thriving business landscape, numerous industries and individuals want the perfect photographer to capture their lives.
You could team up with event planners to photograph beach weddings, work with tourism groups, or even help corporate clients showcase their work and team. To do so, you must have a photography permit in Dubai to take on work from clients. If you want to start a photography business setup in Dubai, I’ve compiled all the whats and hows below.
Conditions for Starting a Photography Business in Dubai
Before starting a photography business in Dubai, there are a few necessary things to remember. These are:
- Choose your area of work: You can pursue commercial photography, wedding photography, or work at corporate companies. Specializing will help you target your audience effectively.
- Engage in healthy competition: Dubai is a land of opportunities but also very competitive. To stand out, have a distinctive look and brand.
- Legal Requirements: Make sure you comply with the law by acquiring the required licenses to run a photography business in Dubai.
Now that you have a brief idea of starting photography services in Dubai, let’s see what documents you will need to obtain a professional license in Dubai to set up your venture.
What Documents Are Needed to Set Up A Photography Business in Dubai?
Dubai is a wonderful place to start your career as a freelance photographer. A myriad of opportunities are waiting to be explored as a freelance photographer in Dubai. If you are applying for a freelance photography license in Dubai, then you will have to submit the following documents:
- Copy of the shareholder’s passport
- A detailed business plan
- Passport-size photo
- Visa Document
On the other hand, if you are applying as an entrepreneur, you have two ways to apply for a photography license in Dubai: through the Department of Economic Development (DED) or authorities in your chosen free zone.
In both cases, you will need to submit a few sets of documents, which include:
- A completed application form
- Copies of the passports of the proposed owner or owners
- clear studio photo
- Visa Copy (If available)
- Email ID and Phone Number
After you have gathered all the documents, the next step is applying for a photography business license. Like all other business setups, applying for a photography license also has some expenses.
Also, read how to start a photography studio in Dubai mainland.
Procedure to Obtain a Photography License in Dubai
You can start your license application process once all your documents have been complied with Below, in simple steps, I have carefully listed what procedures must be carried out for your application to set up your photography company in Dubai.
- Outline a business plan and reserve your trade name:- Create your business goals, and then select a unique name for your venture. Please remember that the name must conform to the naming guidelines of the UAE.
- Decide on your business structure and choose a local partner if needed:- Determine the legal structure for your business. If you are a foreigner, find a local partner who is a native of the UAE.
- Documentation and application: Compile and apply all necessary documents to the DED or Freezone authorities. You can either do this online or with the help of our dedicated experts.
- Find a space for your office setup: Once all the formalities have been completed, find a physical space that aligns with your business needs to set up your office.
Costs for Obtaining a Photography License in Dubai
The cost of acquiring a professional photography license in Dubai will depend on several factors, like the kind of activity you will be doing and your business plan, the type of photography you will be carrying out, and whether you are a freelance photographer. Trade name reservations and initial approval fees are the other expenses you may come across while getting a photography permit in Dubai.
The costs are subject to vary over time based on economic conditions and regulation updates. Our team of experts will track the costs and ensure you are updated with the changes.
Contact Best Solution Today!
Figuring out the legal and administrative processes of starting a new photography business in Dubai can be challenging. We at Best Solutions, business setup consultants in Dubai specialize in helping passionate entrepreneurs like you set up a photography company in Dubai. From getting your application ready to making sure there are no hassles in acquiring your license, we will handle it all. Reach out to us now!
