Setup a Fitness Business in Dubai, UAE

The health and wellness industry in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), an alliance of six Middle Eastern countries is estimated to reach new heights in the coming years. As an entrepreneur, you can look to invest in this industry by setting up a fitness company in Dubai.  Here, we look at what it takes to set up a fitness business in the Emirate.

Reasons to Setup a Fitness Company in Dubai

The fitness industry is a multi-billion dollar market, and Dubai is one of the leading cities to partake in this rising trend. The market is estimated to grow at a rapid pace, offering a wide range of business opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to enter the fitness industry. Another major reason is that the Emirate is home to plenty of wealthy people with high good incomes, who are likely to invest in memberships and gym services. 

Prerequisites for Starting a Fitness Center in Dubai

For starting your fitness company in Dubai, there are certain prerequisites which need to be met. Let us take a look at them: 

• Select a business structure for your company and check the payable tax with the authorities. You can opt for any one of the following business structures - Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Proprietorship, Partnership etc.
• Understand the rules and requirements set by the Dubai Sports Council and ensure to follow them. These requirements include factors such as cleanliness, safety, maintenance, etc.
• Secure the trade licence, commercial licence and fitness club permit from the Department of Economic Development (DED) and DSC, respectively.
• You need to buy an insurance package to protect the company and its assets. 

Advantages of Starting a Fitness Company in Dubai

Starting a fitness company in Dubai has many advantages. Let us take a look at them -

1. Good revenue

In Dubai, if someone enrols in a gym, they are required to pay the monthly fees irrespective of them using the services. This ensures that you have a constant source of revenue from the business. 

2. Business Options 

You get a variety of business options when it comes to starting a fitness company in Dubai. You can choose between buying a business franchise, partnering with another company in the industry, or starting a company of your own. 

3. Encouraging Business Atmosphere

Dubai encourages businesses and has implemented plenty of strategies to help companies grow. Some of the incentives offered for business setup in Dubai include grants, tax benefits, advanced infrastructure, 100% repatriation of profits, quick incorporation process, protection of intellectual property etc.

How to Start a Fitness Company in Dubai?

Starting a gym in Dubai is very profitable as people have understood the benefits of being fit. The process of opening a gym in the Emirate is a simple one, when done correctly. Please go through the steps mentioned below to understand the process-

1. Select Location

Picking the correct location to set up your fitness centre is essential. Finding a space that is in close proximity to your target audience helps attract clients and cater to their needs. 

2. Pick a Business Name

You need to have an appropriate business name which grabs the attention of potential customers. The name must adhere to the naming guidelines laid down by the authorities.

3. Avail Necessary Licences

Apply for appropriate licences and permits from the Dubai Municipality and the DED.

4. Register the Company

Before starting company operations, you need to register the business with DED by obliging with all the other legal requirements.

To understand all the legalities with regard to the process of setting up a fitness business in Dubai, you can consult experts like Commitbiz.

Documents Required to Register Your Fitness Company in Dubai

You are required to submit certain documents when you want to register your fitness company with the authorities. Some of the necessary documents which need to be submitted are - address proof, the owner's passport copy, trade license issued by the DED, NOC from the property owner, etc. To learn more, you can speak with our business experts.

What are the Cost Factors for Setting Fitness Business in Dubai?

There are various costs that affect the cost incurred for opening a fitness centre in Dubai. Knowing about these costs is essential to prepare a budget for running the business. Mentioned below is the list of costs which need to be considered - 

• Staff salary
• Rent
• Marketing cost 
• Insurance 
• Maintenance costs
• The cost incurred for licenses and permits
• Cost incurred for gym equipment
• Cost incurred for space planning and design
• Cost incurred for hiring experts (business and legal)

The fitness industry in Dubai is evolving, and it is an opportune time to join the Emirate’s business environment. Get a free consultation if you wish to join the industry and start your fitness company now!