Thinking about launching a business in the UAE? A cleaning service is a smart старт because it needs weapons and water, just some small gear and cash. The Cleaning Services Market here was already worth $2.3 million in 2020 and is forecasted to grow by about 5.3% each year through 2025. Thanks to relentless investment, rising population and continuous flow to and within the emirates, the need for cleaning just keeps growing.
Overcrowded hotels, packed restaurants, buzzing free zones and expanding commercial hubs are in constant need of a cleaning partner. When you consider the UAE’s fast lifestyle, a cleaning service can secure a well-earning future and is one of the hottest small-business one can follow here. Are you ready to set it up? Keep reading and you will find a easy and solid road-map for your launch.
Types of Cleaning Companies in the UAE
The cleaning services in the UAE can usually be broken down into three big buckets. Each of the three targets a unique market and each bucket has a distinct setup process.
Residential
These companies mainly provide cleaning services for homes like villas, apartments, and townhouses. Their services usually include regular cleaning tasks such as tidying kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and living rooms.
Commercial
Many people work in offices, retail outlets, schools, and hospitals every day. In settings like these, the sheer footprint, mixed indoor climates, and diverse surfaces mean cleaning goes beyond mops and buckets. You’ll see floor scrubbers, hot-water extractors, and hospital-grade disinfectants doing the heavy lifting.
Industrial
Factories, warehouses, and construction zones need a different level of grit. Cleaning in these settings isn’t just about dirt on the floor; it can mean neutralising spilt chemicals, extracting metal shavings, or removing heavy oils from assembly line equipment. The work is performed by a small army of well-trained technicians in personal protective gear, who wield powerful extractors, scaffolding lifts, and containment vacuums. Waste management, spill containment, and deep assembly-line pressure-washing are done to an exacting, regulated standard to keep everyone and everything safe on the production floor.
Along with general cleaning, you can expand your services by offering:
- Building cleaning
- Advertising signboard cleaning
- Car cleaning services
- Runways & road cleaning
- Street cleaning
- Yacht cleaning services
- Sea & shore cleaning
These add-on services can help your business stand out in Dubai’s competitive market.
What License is Needed to Start a Cleaning Company?
To legally operate a cleaning business in Dubai, you need a cleaning service license. Depending on your company setup, you can apply for either a professional license or a commercial license.
Professional License:
- 100% ownership allowed.
- Suitable for individuals or small businesses.
- Requires an agreement with a Local Service Agent (LSA).
- Cost of professional license AED 14,500.
Commercial License:
- Registered as a Limited Liability Company (LLC).
- Shared ownership with a UAE national (sponsor).
- More suitable for larger operations.
- Cost of commerical license AED 17,900.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Start a Cleaning Business in the UAE
Here’s a simple way to help you start your company:
- First, do market research – Understand demand, competitors, and pricing.
- Choose your services – Residential, commercial, or industrial.
- Pick a location – operate anywhere in the UAE or Free Zone (100% ownership).
- Select a legal structure – Sole proprietorship, Civil Company, or LLC.
- Decide on a business name – Must comply with UAE naming rules.
- Get initial approval from DED – No-objection certificate (NOC).
- Prepare documents – Passport copies, visa, NOC, and application forms.
- Rent office space – Ejari agreement required.
- Apply for additional approvals if needed – e.g., Dubai Municipality.
- Apply for your cleaning service license – Submit documents and pay fees.
- Get visas – For yourself, employees, and family.
- Open a corporate bank account – For business transactions.
Requirements for Cleaning Service License Application
To apply for a cleaning company license in the UAE, you will need:
- Completed application form.
- At least three name choices for your business.
- Copies of shareholders’ passports.
- Visa copy or entry stamp.
- NOC from the sponsor (if you already have a residence visa).
- Any additional approvals if required.
Cost of Cleaning Company License in the UAE
The license for a cleaning company in the UAE costs between AED 10,000 and AED 18,000.
The price depends on:
- Licensee type (Professional vs Commercial).
- Location (Mainland vs Free Zone).
- Number of services offered.
- Size of the company.
FAQs
1. What license do I need to start a cleaning business in Dubai?
You need either a professional license (for small setups) or a commercial license (for LLC companies).
2. How much does it cost to get a cleaning company license in Dubai?
It usually costs between AED 10,000 and AED 18,000, depending on the license type and business setup.
3. Can foreigners own 100% of a cleaning company in UAE?
Yes, with a professional license or by setting up in a free zone, foreigners can enjoy 100% ownership.
4. Is a physical office required for a cleaning business in Dubai?
Yes, for mainland companies, you must have an office and Ejari agreement. Free zone setups may allow flexi-desk options.
5. Are cleaning services in Dubai profitable?
Yes, due to high demand from homes, offices, and industries, cleaning companies in UAE often generate stable and recurring income.
