Starting a cleaning company in Dubai is one of the most sought-after business activities in the UAE. As a land of expats, the UAE is home to millions of professionals who spend a major part of their day out of their homes. Leading busy lives leaves little time to get any cleaning done, and many may not be inclined towards keeping a full-time house help. As a result, they rely on cleaning service companies to upkeep their homes. This, in turn, has made starting a cleaning services company in Dubai a lucrative business venture.
Cleaning services is a large sector that includes residential, commercial, and industrial cleaning. Each of these categories has further sub-categories that specialize in one activity such as carpet cleaning, water tank cleaning, air conditioner and kitchen duct cleaning, etc. However, it can be hectic for an expat to handle everything alongside the planned business activities.
Therefore, we are here to guide you through the process on how to start a cleaning company in Dubai, covering everything from business registration and licensing to the cost involved and the marketing tips.
Types of Cleaning Services in Dubai
Dubai’s fast-paced lifestyle and emphasis on cleanliness create a thriving market for cleaning services. Here are the primary types of cleaning services you can consider when starting your cleaning company in Dubai:
1. Residential Cleaning Services
As the name suggests, tackle residential spaces such as apartments and villas and specialize in cleaning areas such as bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and other home spaces. Furthermore, residential cleaning requires basic cleaning equipment and supplies and is best suited for SMBs and startups.
2. Commercial Cleaning Services
Commercial cleaning services cater to commercial spaces such as offices, retail stores, hospitals, and buildings. Since these spaces are usually bigger than residential spaces, they require specialized, heavy-duty equipment and cleaning supplies. Some of the common commercial cleaning services include:
- Office Cleaning: Regular cleaning of office spaces, including desks, floors, bathrooms, and common areas.
- Building Maintenance: Cleaning common areas in residential buildings, such as lobbies, elevators, and stairwells.
- Retail Store Cleaning: Maintaining cleanliness in retail spaces, including floors, displays, and restrooms.
- Restaurant Cleaning: Cleaning kitchens, dining areas, restrooms, and other areas in restaurants.
3. Industria Cleaning Services
Industrial cleaning services are called in to sanitize and maintain industrial buildings, factories, and warehouses. These spaces can have very specific requirements such as commercial waste clean-up, hazardous waste clean-up, etc.
Industrial cleaning deals with a whole different type of clientele and therefore requires industrial-grade cleaning machinery, chemicals, and other industrial solvents and cleaning supplies.
Documents Required to Start a Cleaning Business in Dubai
To establish a cleaning business in Dubai, you’ll need to gather specific documents. Here are the general documents you’ll likely need:
- Completed application form
- Passport copies of the owners
- Visa copies
- NOC from current sponsor (if applicable)
- Initial approval certificate
- Trade name certificate
- Tenancy contract for office space
- Additional approvals, if any, listed by the DED
- LSA agreement (if required)
How to Start a Cleaning Company in Dubai? Step-by-step Guide
To start your residential cleaning services business in Dubai, you must register your company with the Department of Economic Development (DED). The DED is the government body responsible for issuing trade licenses for businesses in Dubai mainland.
Here’s a step-by-step process to obtain business license to start a cleaning company in Dubai:
Step 1: Conduct Market Research
Determine whether you will focus on residential, commercial, or industrial cleaning services. Assess the demand for cleaning services in your chosen market.
Step 2: Choose a Trade Name & Legal Structure
Decide on a sole proprietorship, partnership, or LLC based on your business needs and preferences. Select a unique and appropriate name for your cleaning company.
Step 3: Obtain Necessary Licenses from DED
Submit the necessary documents and apply for a trade license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) specifying cleaning services. Depending on the type of shareholding structure you want for your business, a cleaning services company can apply for either a professional or commercial license. Additional approval & a permit might be required.
Step 4: Register with Dubai Municipality
Comply with health and safety regulations and obtain required permits. Registering your cleaning company with Dubai municipality is straightforward and doesn’t take a lot of time. All you need to do is follow the steps mentioned below:
- Register yourself as a customer on Dubai’s municipality’s official website and log in with the same credentials once the account is created successfully.
- Once you’ve logged in, click on the “Company Registration” tab, and you’ll be automatically redirected to a new page.
- Fill in all the mandatory details on the form regarding your personal information, business details, and more. Don’t forget to tick the “Security” checkbox at the bottom of your screen.
- Proofread all the information that you’ve provided and click on “Register” once satisfied.
- You’ll get an email confirmation from Dubai Municipality once your registration is processed successfully.
Please note, you need to have soft copies of the company’s logo, trading license, etc., as you’ll need to upload them on the registration portal.
Step 5: Arrange Office Space
Secure an office space as per the requirements of the licensing authority. This is mandatory for obtaining a business license. Ensure the tenancy contract is registered with Ejari (for mainland companies).
Step 6: Hiring and Training
Hire experienced cleaners and supervisors who meet your company’s standards. Ensure they have the necessary visas and work permits. Equip your staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver excellent service.
Step 7: Purchase Equipment and Supplies
Buy or lease high-quality cleaning equipment such as vacuum cleaners, floor polishers, etc. Stock up on necessary cleaning supplies like detergents, disinfectants, mops, and brushes.
Step 8: Marketing and Sales
Create a strong brand identity and develop marketing materials. Utilize digital marketing channels (website, social media) to reach potential clients. Build relationships with property management companies, real estate agents, and other businesses.
Although starting a residential cleaning business in Dubai is profitable and fairly low-cost, you might still be skeptical of how to register a cleaning company in Dubai municipality. Therefore, it’s essential to factor in other important aspects such as competition, workforce, equipment, and supplies, and subcategories your business will cater to.
You can always get in touch with Shuraa’s business experts, and we’ll take care of your company’s registration with Dubai Municipality alongside all the other business formation activities in the UAE.
Cleaning Company License Cost in Dubai
The license cost of starting a cleaning company in Dubai typically ranges from AED 12,000 to AED 25,000. However, this is just an estimate, and the actual cost can vary based on several factors:
- Business Structure: Sole proprietorship, LLC, or other legal structure.
- Type of Cleaning Services: Residential, commercial, industrial, or specialized cleaning.
- Location: Specific emirate within Dubai.
- Additional Permits: Requirements for specific services (e.g., food handling for restaurant cleaning).
A trade license fee, name and initial approvals, Tasheel fee, MoA notary fee, stamp of the company, immigration card, change of status, medical test, Emirates ID and visa stamping, among others, can contribute to the overall cost of starting a cleaning company in Dubai.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance
Starting a cleaning company in Dubai requires a thorough understanding of the legal and regulatory framework to ensure smooth operations and avoid penalties.
- A trade license is essential for any business, including cleaning services. You’ll need to specify the type of cleaning services you’ll offer (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.).
- Provide necessary safety equipment (gloves, masks, aprons, etc.) and training to prevent injuries.
- Adhere to waste disposal regulations, especially for hazardous materials.
- If you’re cleaning food establishments, comply with food safety regulations.
- Comply with UAE Labor Law regarding working hours, wages, overtime, leave, and termination procedures.
- Obtain comprehensive insurance coverage, including public liability, workers’ compensation, and property damage.
- Adhere to environmental regulations, especially when dealing with hazardous waste.
Let Shuraa Help You Build Your Business
Starting a cleaning company in Dubai is a great opportunity because there’s a growing demand for professional cleaning services. Dubai’s booming real estate market and focus on cleanliness mean there’s a lot of potential for success in the cleaning industry here.
Don’t miss out on this chance to start a company in Dubai. For a smooth and hassle-free setup, get in touch with Shuraa Business Setup. Our experts can help you with everything from getting the right licenses and handling legal paperwork to finding office space and getting visas. With Shuraa Business Setup, you can focus on building your business while we take care of the rest.
Get in touch today for a free consultation at +971 4 4081900, via WhatsApp at +971 50 7775554, or by sending an email to [email protected].
