Dubai is a humble abode to millions of working professionals, business people, and employees who tend to spend a major part of their day out of their homes. The jam-packed schedule leaves them with little to almost no time to get any cleaning chores done. As a result, they rely on cleaning service providers who can upkeep their homes with the best services. Opportunities like these bring more and more business to the cleaning companies, making it a lucrative business venture to start in the commercial capital of the UAE. But, if you are a newbie in the UAE, you might wonder how to start a cleaning company in Dubai.
Hence, in this guide, we will take you through the process of launching a cleaning business in Dubai, covering every aspect of the process including business registration, licensing, the cost involved as well as the marketing tips.
Types of cleaning services in Dubai
The brisk lifestyle and greater attention to cleanliness create a growing market for cleaning services in Dubai. The primary categories of services that you can include in your business are:-
Residential cleaning services –
These services cater to residential spaces such as apartments and villas, and cleaning areas like bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and other home spaces.
Commercial cleaning services –
These services specifically cater to commercial spaces like offices, retail stores, hospitals, and buildings. Since commercial spaces are usually larger compared to residential spaces, they require heavy-duty equipment and specialized supplies. The common services offered in this category include:-
- Office cleaning – Cleaning of office spaces, desks, floors, bathrooms, and common areas.
- Building maintenance – Cleaning common areas like lobbies, elevators, and stairwells.
- Retail store cleaning – Cleaning retail spaces, including floors, displays, and restrooms.
- Restaurant cleaning – Cleaning kitchens, dining areas, restrooms, and other areas.
Industrial cleaning services –
These types of services are mostly provided in industrial buildings, factories, and warehouses. From sanitization to maintenance, these spaces may also have other requirements such as commercial and hazardous waste clean-up. Unlike residential and commercial cleaning services, industrial cleaning caters to a whole different type of clients. Therefore, the specific requirements would include industrial-grade cleaning machinery, chemicals, and other industrial solvents.
How to start a cleaning company in Dubai: Essential requirements
To establish a cleaning business in Dubai successfully, you need to provide the necessary documents and credentials to the relevant authorities. These may include:-
- Application form
- Passport copies
- Visa copies
- NOC from the current sponsor
- Initial approval certificate
- Trade name registration certificate
- Tenancy contract
- Additional approvals, as required
- LSA agreement (if required)
How to start a cleaning company in Dubai: Step-by-step guide
The process of opening a cleaning business in Dubai begins with company registration with the Department of Economic Development (DED), the regulatory body responsible for issuing trade licenses to mainland companies.
The process involves the following steps:-
Market research
Determine whether you want to serve residential spaces, commercial spaces, or industrial spaces. Conduct extensive research, assess the demand, and accordingly choose your market.
Trade name and legal structure
Decide whether you want to establish a sole proprietorship, partnership, or LLC in Dubai. Your decision should be based on your business needs and preferences. Further, select an appropriate name that adheres to the naming conventions of the UAE government.
License acquisition from the DED
Submit the required documents to the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the local authorities, based on your jurisdiction, and apply for a license specifying the type of cleaning services you wish to provide. Depending on the type of shareholding structure, you might require a professional license or a commercial license. In certain cases, you might even require additional approval and permits.
Registration with the Dubai Municipality
Compliance with the health and safety regulations is paramount in a cleaning business. after obtaining your required permits, register your business with Dubai municipality. The process is straightforward and less time-consuming. You can seek the assistance of a company formation specialist at Shuraa to ensure a smooth process.
- Register as a customer on the official website of Dubai Municipality.
- Create an account and register with the same credentials.
- Once you click on the “Company Registration” tab, you will be redirected to a new page.
- Input all the requested details on the form including your personal information, business details, etc.
- Review the provided information and then click on “Register”.
- Upon successful processing, Dubai Municipality will share an email confirmation of registration.
This step may require you to submit soft copies of the company’s logo, trading license, etc. Hence, make sure they are available with you.
Office space
The licensing authority may require you to secure an office space as part of the licensing process. Once you find a suitable space, prepare a tenancy contract and get it registered with Ejari (if your company is registered in Mainland).
Staff hiring and training
The staff you hire must be experienced, specialized, and as per the company’s standards. Also, make sure that they have the necessary visas and permits to work in Dubai. further, train them and equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge so that they deliver excellent service to their clients.
Essential equipment and supplies
A quality service-providing cleaning business would require high-quality cleaning equipment such as vacuum cleaners, floor polishers, detergents, disinfectants, mops, brushes, etc. Hence, stock up on all necessary equipment and supplies.
Marketing and sales
Effective marketing of business will help you create a strong brand identity. Leverage digital marketing channels including social media to reach potential clients. Build healthy relationships with real estate companies, agents, property managers, and other businesses.
Although this whole process looks profitable and fairly low-cost, you might still be doubtful about how to start a cleaning company in Dubai. You cannot overlook factors like competition, workforce, and subcategories your business will cater to. Hence, to ensure that you have all the right things in place, get in touch with Shuraa’s business experts and they will take care of the rest.
Cost of cleaning company license in Dubai
The cleaning company license cost in Dubai is determined by several factors such as legal structure, type of services, jurisdiction, and additional permits. The license fee, initial approvals, registration fee, immigration card, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping also contribute to the overall cost.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance
To start a cleaning business in Dubai, you need to have a thorough understanding of the legal and regulatory framework. This will ensure smooth operations and keep your business away from any legal troubles.
- Your trade license must specify the type of cleaning services you will offer.
- Provide necessary training and safety equipment like gloves, masks, aprons, etc. to your cleaners and workers to prevent injuries.
- Adhere to waste disposal and environmental regulations, especially if you are dealing with hazardous materials.
- While cleaning food establishments, adhere to food safety regulations.
- Ensure compliance with the UAE Labor Laws regarding employee working hours, remuneration, overtime rules, leave, and termination procedures.
- Do not forget to obtain insurance coverage, including public liability, workers’ compensation, and property damage.
Conclusion
Now that you are well-acquainted with how to start a cleaning company in Dubai, do not miss out on this chance to establish your brand in the Dubai market. For a smooth and hassle-free setup, you can always reach out to the experts of Shuraa Business Setup who will help you with everything, right from the beginning to the post-setup services.
Get in touch today for a free consultation – www.shuraa.com
