Every week, buyers contact us with the same worries: "I don't have millions," "I need a local partner," "I don't know the industry." Many of these ideas are out of date or simply not true.
Here are the most common myths about buying a business in Dubai, and the facts behind them.
Myth 1: "You Need Millions to Buy a Business in Dubai"
The fact: Dubai has businesses for sale at almost every budget. While some hotels and large companies sell for millions, many running businesses such as salons, barbershops, cafés and small retail shops are listed in the low hundreds of thousands of dirhams. The right business for you depends on your budget, not the other way round.
Myth 2: "Foreigners Need a Local Partner to Own a Business"
The fact: This used to be true for most mainland companies, but the rules changed in 2021. Today, foreign investors can own 100% of a mainland company for most business activities. A small number of strategic activities still have restrictions, so it's always worth checking the specific activity before you buy.
Myth 3: "There's No Tax in Dubai"
The fact: The UAE introduced corporate tax in 2023. Taxable profits above AED 375,000 are taxed at 9%, and VAT of 5% applies to most goods and services. Dubai is still very tax-friendly compared to many countries, but buyers should check that a business is registered and up to date with its tax and VAT.
Myth 4: "You Need Experience in the Industry"
The fact: Many successful owners have never worked in the industry they buy into. When you buy a running business, you usually take over an experienced team, existing systems and loyal customers. What matters most is good management, keeping key staff, and learning the business during the handover.
Myth 5: "Starting From Scratch Is Cheaper and Safer"
The fact: Starting a new business means finding a location, fitting it out, getting licences, hiring staff and building customers from zero, often with months of losses before you break even. Buying a running business gives you income from day one and a track record you can review before you commit.
Myth 6: "The Asking Price Is Final"
The fact: Most asking prices leave some room for discussion. The final price depends on the figures, the lease, the equipment and how quickly the seller wants to move. A good broker helps both sides reach a fair deal.
Myth 7: "Turnkey Means Profitable"
The fact: "Turnkey" means the business is fully set up and ready to operate. It doesn't always mean it's making a profit. Always ask for sales records and running costs, and review them before making an offer.
Myth 8: "You Can See Everything Before Signing Anything"
The fact: To protect sellers, full details like the business name, location and financials are shared only after the buyer signs a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). This is standard practice. It keeps the sale confidential and protects staff, customers and the owner.
Myth 9: "Transferring a Business Is Quick and Simple"
The fact: A business transfer in Dubai involves several steps: agreeing terms, paying a deposit, getting landlord approval, and transferring the licence through the relevant authority. With the right documents and a broker managing the process, it can move smoothly, but it's not a one-day job.
Myth 10: "You Don't Need a Broker"
The fact: You can try to buy directly, but a licensed broker brings access to confidential listings, checks the documents, handles negotiations and guides you through the transfer. This saves time and helps you avoid costly mistakes.
The Bottom Line
Buying a business in Dubai is more accessible than many people think. With the right budget, clear information and expert guidance, it can be one of the fastest ways to become a business owner in the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a foreigner buy a business in Dubai?
Yes. Foreigners can own 100% of most mainland businesses and free zone companies, subject to the rules for the specific business activity.
What is the minimum budget to buy a business in Dubai?
There's no fixed minimum. Small running businesses can be listed from the low hundreds of thousands of dirhams, depending on the sector and location.
Do I need to live in Dubai to buy a business?
You can start the process from abroad, but you'll usually need to be in the UAE to complete certain steps and run the business day to day.
Is corporate tax charged on small businesses in Dubai?
Corporate tax of 9% applies to taxable profits above AED 375,000. Profits below that level are taxed at 0%.
Why do I need to sign an NDA before seeing the details?
An NDA protects the seller's confidential information and keeps the sale private from staff, customers and competitors.
Start Your Search With BusinessesForSale
Ready to buy a business in Dubai? Browse running businesses across clinics, salons, F&B, gyms, hospitality and more on businessesforsale.ae.
Sharing Is Caring!