Everywhere you go in the world there is always one city or region that is home to all the major companies and businesses. North America has New York, Europe has London, East Asia has Singapore, and the Middle East has Dubai. So having an office in Dubai can do wonders for your business.
So, if you are looking to set up an office in Dubai then we have prepared the ultimate guide for you. It has all the information that you need to get an office for rent in Dubai.
Why Dubai is the ideal place for you to have an office?
There are many reasons that make Dubai an ideal place to have an office. For starters, its geographical location puts it close to both East Asia and Europe, creating a perfect hub for international trade. This is also evident by the time zone, as it is perfectly situated between both continents.
Secondly, Dubai is very conducive for businesses, as there are no taxes and the government is very welcoming to businesses from around the globe and provides them with all the necessary infrastructure to run a business. Lastly, it has access to a vast workforce, both skilled and unskilled from the surrounding countries.
Key things to remember when finding an office for rent in Dubai
There are many important things that you need to take into account before you find your ideal office in Dubai. These things will not only help you find a good office but will also ensure that it is affordable, in a good location, and most importantly, that you are able to operate in it for a long time.
The things to remember are as follows:
Your Budget
Dubai can be very costly when it comes to renting an office. With limited real estate and so many businesses vying to have a presence in Dubai, the prices can get very competitive. Your budget should not only include the rent you are going to pay but also the many additional fees.
These fees will include the commission you are going to pay to your real estate agent, the Ejari Registration Fees, the security deposit, DEWA charges, parking fees, renovation costs, and maintenance costs.
The Office Size
In order to get a trade license in Dubai, i.e. to operate your business in Dubai you need to rent an office that is at least 200 square feet in size. Also, your office should be large enough to accommodate the number of employees that will be working there.
Finding the Right Real Estate Agent
Having a good real estate agent in your corner will go a long way when getting an office for rent in Dubai. A good real estate agent will not only help you find the right office space that fits your needs, but they will also ensure that the price is low and most importantly they will help you do all the legal paperwork and guide you through the whole renting process.
Finding the Right Location
Dubai is built for business, so there is no shortage of good locations for offices. There are two main factors that you need to take into account, how much you are willing to spend, i.e. do you want your office in a posh area of the town or someplace that is easier on your pocket.
Secondly, you need to ensure that your office is easily accessible for your employees, customers, and suppliers by being close to a transportation hub. Also, you need to ensure that your office is close to all the necessary amenities that your employees may need like restaurants, banks, parking, etc.
Here is a list of good locations to find an office for rent in Dubai.
- Downtown Dubai: If you can afford it then Downtown Dubai is the perfect location for you. To give you an idea of its significance, we are talking about buildings like Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Mall.
- Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC): If you operate in the finance sector then there is no better location for you than DIFC, home to many banks and financial institutions. DIFC is a little on the costly side but well worth your money.
- Business Bay: As the name states, Business Bay is built for business. With its many high rises, central location, and proximity to other businesses, it is an ideal location to have an office in.
- Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT): It is modern, hip, and full of energy and the view is absolutely stunning. Providing you with an ideal location to have an office, without breaking your bank.
Complying with the Rules and Regulations
In order to rent an office in Dubai you need to comply with the rules and regulations and do all the necessary paperwork. This paperwork includes the following:
- Trade License: While not necessary for the renting process, you still need to have a trade license to operate your business in Dubai for which you are renting the very office space.
- Tenancy Contract: Before your landlord hands you the keys to your office you and your landlord need to sign a tenancy contract outlining the terms and conditions of your lease.
- Ejari Registration: The tenancy contract that you sign needs to be registered electronically through the Ejari registration system. This allows your contract to be entered into the Dubai Land Department record.
- RERA Forms: You need to fill out the necessary forms for the Real Estate Regulatory Authority that oversees the real estate sector in Dubai. It ensures that both parties are complying with the law and are protected in case of any mishap.
- DEWA Registration: You also need to register an account with the DEWA for your electricity and water needs and to pay the monthly water and electricity bill.
- Employee Visas: The majority of your employees will be expats living in Dubai, so you need to make sure they meet the visa requirements and have all the necessary documents.
- Necessary Permits: In addition to the above-mentioned paperwork there might be additional permits that you may need to fill in. These will depend on the kind of business you are setting up and your real estate agent will guide you through the process.
Conclusion
On the surface it may look like finding an office for rent in Dubai is a trying endeavor, but it is not. Dubai is one of the best places in the world to set up your business, as its laws and regulations are designed to ensure that businesses can operate soundly and successfully and once you find the right office, you will notice this for yourself.
