How to Start a Beauty Salon Business in Dubai?

If you are wondering how to start a beauty salon business in Dubai, this article can help you with the process!

Opening a salon business in Dubai is a promising idea, as there will always be a steady demand for this service. With a high standard of living and substantial disposable income per capita in Dubai, people prioritise their appearance. As a result, salon businesses thrive in the city.

You can enter a salon franchise, open a brand-new salon, set up a small salon in Bur Dubai, or start a boutique salon in Jumeirah. All you need to do is connect with the business setup consultants and acquire the salon license Dubai.

Dubai Mainland is an ideal location to start a beauty salon business in Dubai or a barbershop, as you can attract the maximum number of customers by making the most of Dubai’s local marketplace. The Department of Economic Development (DED) is the regulatory body for all types of businesses in Dubai Mainland. The department has outlined some significant requirements for starting a salon business in Dubai.

Is Salon Business Profitable in Dubai?

Yes, starting a salon business in Dubai is profitable. The industry is expected to surpass $531.7 million in 2025, with profit margins ranging between 35% and 50%. Dubai holds 50% of the UAE’s salon market, with around 5,000 salons serving a high-demand customer base. The sector is growing at a CAGR of 3.58% (2023-2030), driven by increasing interest in grooming and wellness services.

Market Potential

• Popular salon services include hairstyling, makeup, skincare, facials, nail care, and henna designs and serve residents and tourists.

• Luxury and organic beauty treatments are in high demand, making high-end salons particularly profitable.

Startup Costs and Requirements

• The initial investment varies depending on location, salon size, and services but generally ranges from AED 150,000 to AED 500,000.

• Licensing is mandatory and requires the Dubai Municipality and Dubai Economic Department (DED) approval. Salon owners can choose between a Women’s Salon License (for hair, makeup, nails, and skincare) or a Men’s Salon License (for haircuts, beard grooming, and skincare).

• Salon premises must meet strict hygiene and safety standards, including designated service areas, proper ventilation, and fire-resistant materials.

Challenges and Considerations

• Competition is high, making branding, marketing, and unique service offerings critical.

• Operational expenses (rent, staff salaries, inventory) can be significant.

• Choosing between a mainland or free zone setup affects the business scope. Mainland salons can serve the local market, while Free Zone salons have restrictions.

If planned well, opening a salon in Dubai can be profitable, especially when targeting the premium market and leveraging social media marketing to attract clients.

Benefits of a Salon Business in Dubai

Starting a beauty salon business in Dubai offers numerous advantages, making it a profitable venture for entrepreneurs in the beauty and wellness industry. Here are the key benefits:

1. High Demand for Beauty Services

Dubai is known for its luxury lifestyle, where beauty and self-care are priorities. The demand for hair, skincare, and wellness services is consistently high, creating a growing market for those looking to open a beauty salon in Dubai.

2. Booming Tourism Industry

With millions of tourists visiting Dubai every year, there is a steady flow of potential customers. Many tourists seek grooming services during their stay, further boosting the profitability of a salon business in Dubai.

3. Tax-Free Income and Business-Friendly Policies

Dubai offers a tax-free business environment, allowing salon owners to maximise profits. The salon license in Dubai is relatively easy to obtain with the proper guidance, ensuring a smooth business setup process.

4. Diverse Customer Base

Dubai is home to a diverse population, including expatriates and high-net-worth individuals willing to spend on premium beauty services. This diversity provides an excellent opportunity for salons to serve different beauty trends and treatments.

5. Affordable Business Setup Costs

Compared to other luxury hubs, opening a salon in Dubai is cost-effective. Entrepreneurs can choose between mainland or free zone business setups, with flexible options for location, ownership, and operational costs.

6. Advanced Beauty Industry and Trends

Dubai is at the forefront of beauty trends, offering an ideal environment for salons to introduce innovative treatments and services. The availability of international beauty products and skilled professionals further enhances the industry’s growth.

7. Franchise and Expansion Opportunities

Once established, a salon business in Dubai can expand rapidly through franchising or launching multiple branches across the UAE. The business ecosystem supports salon growth and brand recognition.

8. Networking and Business Support

Dubai’s business ecosystem provides salon owners with networking opportunities, partnerships, and access to government support initiatives. Additionally, it’s easier to establish and grow the business.

With its growing beauty industry, supportive government policies, and high demand for personal grooming services, opening a salon in Dubai is a promising and profitable venture.

Obtaining the right salon license in Dubai is crucial to ensure compliance with local regulations. For more information, you can contact business setup consultants!

How Do You Obtain a Beauty Salon License in Dubai?

Starting a beauty salon business in Dubai is a profitable opportunity, given the city’s beauty and wellness industry. However, to operate legally, you must obtain a beauty salon license in Dubai, which requires approvals from various authorities, including the Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET) and Dubai Municipality.

Here is a step-by-step guide to getting a salon license in Dubai:

Step 1: Choose the Type of Beauty Salon

Before applying for a beauty salon license in Dubai, determine the type of salon you want to establish:

• Women’s Beauty Salon: Offers haircuts, facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing, and other beauty treatments.
• Men’s Salon/Barbershop: Provides grooming services such as haircuts, beard trimming, shaving, and essential skincare.

Your business activities will depend on the type of salon you choose, and they must be clearly stated in your salon license in Dubai application.

Step 2: Choose the Business Location

Selecting the right location is essential for your beauty salon business in Dubai. The premises must meet specific requirements set by Dubai Municipality, such as:

• Located in a commercial area or shopping centre (residential areas are not permitted).
• The salon must have sufficient space to accommodate all the different services you plan to offer.
• Meeting hygiene and safety standards, including proper ventilation, lighting, and waste disposal systems.

If you choose a free zone, check the authority’s regulations before proceeding.

Step 3: Obtain Initial Approvals

To proceed with your salon license in Dubai, you must secure the following approvals:

1. Trade Name Registration
   • Choose a unique business name following UAE naming guidelines (no offensive words or references to religious or political terms).
   • Register the trade name with Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET).
2. Select Business Jurisdiction
   • Mainland: If setting up on the mainland, you need approval from DET.
   • Free Zone: You must get approval from the respective free zone authority to establish a free zone.
3. Tenancy Contract & Ejari Registration
   • Secure a rented or owned commercial space for your salon.
   • Register the tenancy contract with Ejari (Dubai’s rental registration system).

Step 4: Submit the Salon License Application

After obtaining initial approvals, submit your beauty salon license in Dubai application to DET (for mainland businesses) or the relevant free zone authority. The application should include:

• Trade name reservation certificate
• Initial approval certificate
• Ejari-registered tenancy contract
• MOA (if applicable)
• Passport copies of owners and partners
• Visa copies of owners and partners

Once approved, you will receive the salon license in Dubai, allowing you to proceed with further approvals.

Step 5: Obtain Dubai Municipality Approvals

To officially launch your beauty salon business in Dubai, you need final approval from Dubai Municipality, which will inspect the salon for compliance with:

• Hygiene and safety standards (e.g., sterilisation of equipment, proper waste disposal).
• Interior layout regulations, including designated areas for different beauty treatments.
• Employee health and safety requirements, such as valid occupational health cards for salon staff.

Upon successful inspection, Dubai Municipality will issue the required permits, allowing you to start operations.

Step 6: Finalise Licensing and Begin Operations

Once all approvals are in place:

• Pay the required license fees to DET or the free zone authority.
• Obtain your official beauty salon license in Dubai.
• Apply for visas for staff and business owners.
• Register your salon for VAT (if applicable).

With your salon license in Dubai, you can now legally launch your beauty salon business in Dubai and start offering clients services.

Setting up a beauty salon business in Dubai involves multiple approvals and legal requirements. To ensure a hassle-free process, consult business setup advisors, where experts can handle everything from trade name registration to Dubai Municipality approvals.

Contact Shuraa today to get your salon license in Dubai and start your beauty business quickly!

Requirements for a beauty salon license in Dubai

Don’t overlook or skip any paperwork or certification to avoid future disagreements. Maintain a list of gadgets and other equipment for uninterrupted functioning in your salon.

Here’s a checklist to make things simpler for you:

• A signboard
• Adequate lighting, hygienic sitting layout, durable furnishings
• Customer chairs shouldn’t be smaller than 3.0 m wide and 3.5 m in length.
• A multi-purpose washbasin for hair cleansing, facial treatments
• A separation of 2.30 m between the vault and the floor of your station
• Fireproofing for areas that are prone to catching fire during cosmetic preparations
• A geyser and closet for keeping gadgets and other equipment
• Location’s approval

Additional Municipality Guidelines:

• Ceiling Height: At least 2.3 metres high.
• Chair Spacing: 1-metre distance between hairdressing/makeup chairs and 0.5-metre distance between manicure/pedicure chairs.
• Wall Spacing: At least 0.5 metres distance between chairs and walls.
• Minimum Area: A two-chair salon should be at least 3 metres by 4 metres in size.
• Separate Treatment Areas: Ensure distinct areas for different beauty services.

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Salon in Dubai?

The cost of opening a salon in Dubai varies depending on several factors, including location, salon type, and required approvals. On average, a trade license costs between AED 10,000* and AED 15,000*, while Dubai Municipality approvals range from AED 2,000* to AED 4,000*.

Depending on the area, renting a commercial space can cost between AED 50,000* and AED 200,000* annually. Additional expenses include interior setup, furniture, and beauty products ranging from AED 30,000* to AED 150,000*. Business owners should also consider visa costs, marketing expenses, and insurance fees.

Setting up a salon in Dubai can cost between AED 80,000* and AED 300,000*. For an exact cost estimate and assistance with the setup process, contact Shuraa Business Setup today!

Marketing and Launch Strategies to Start a Salon Business

Social Media Marketing:

• Leverage platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your salon’s services, before-and-after transformations, and customer testimonials.

• Use trending hashtags and collaborate with influencers to increase visibility.

Grand Opening Ideas:

• Host a launch event with live demonstrations, free consultations, or discounts for first-time customers.

• Offer bundled services or loyalty programmes to attract and retain clients.

Technology Integration:

• Use salon management software for appointment scheduling, inventory tracking, and customer relationship management.

• Offer online booking and digital payment options for convenience.

Staff Recruitment and Training

• Hire qualified professionals with certifications in hairdressing, makeup, or beauty therapy, as per Dubai Municipality regulations.

• Provide ongoing training to keep your staff updated on the latest beauty trends and techniques.

Ongoing Compliance and Renewals

• Regularly renew your salon license and ensure compliance with Dubai Municipality’s health and safety standards.

• Schedule periodic inspections to maintain hygiene and operational standards.

Consult with Shuraa for your beauty salon business setup.

Still not sure how to get a license for a beauty salon in Dubai. Simply get in touch with Shuraa Business Setup and avail yourself of a free consultation on registering a salon business in Dubai or a spa business in Dubai and getting your business license.

We also assist you through the entire process of any business setup, from a barbershop to a men’s or women’s beauty salon – all at an affordable cost. So, what are you waiting for? Connect with our corporate advisors today to launch your dream venture in the UAE!

Click here to book a free consultation with our experts and learn more about the cost of opening a salon in Dubai, or call +97144081900. You can also send a WhatsApp message at +971507775554. For email assistance, mail your query to [email protected].

FAQs on Salon Business in Dubai

*Note: The information in this post is for general guidance only and may change due to updates in government policies or regulations.