Opening a barber shop in Dubai is more than just an exciting business idea—it’s a strategic opportunity. The demand for high-quality men’s grooming services is growing fast in Dubai’s fast-paced and style-conscious environment.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about getting a barber shop license in Dubai, UAE, including rules, setup process, costs, and legal requirements.
Why Start a Barber Shop in Dubai?
Dubai is home to millions of residents and tourists who value grooming, hygiene, and personal style. This demand fuels a booming salon and grooming industry. Men’s grooming services—especially traditional barber shops—have seen a rise in popularity.
From beard trims and fades to hot towel shaves, people are willing to pay for quality. With the right setup, your barber shop business in Dubai can quickly become profitable.
Legal Structure for Opening a Barber Shop
Before starting your business, you’ll need to choose the right legal form for your barber shop.
Mainland or Free Zone?
You can register your business in either the Dubai Mainland or a Free Zone. But note that if you want to open a physical barber shop outlet, you must choose a mainland license, as free zones do not allow retail or service shops in city areas.
A mainland license gives you the ability to:
- Open a shop anywhere in Dubai
- Serve local and international customers
- Expand branches within the UAE
For a barber shop, the mainland license under the Department of Economic Development (DED) is the best fit.
Business Activities Allowed Under Barber Shop License
When applying for your license, you need to select the correct business activity. Dubai DED has a specific activity code for barber shops, often titled:
- Men’s Salon
- Barber Shop
- Hair Cutting Services
- Hair and Beard Styling
These activities include:
- Haircuts
- Shaving and beard grooming
- Hair washing and blow drying
- Facial cleansing and grooming
- Hair coloring or dyeing (optional)
- Selling hair and skin products (optional add-on)
Make sure the selected activities match the services you’ll offer. If you plan to sell products, request trade activity permissions too.
Steps to Get a Barber Shop License in Dubai
Let’s break down the process into simple steps.
Choose a Trade Name
Pick a unique name for your barber shop. Avoid offensive or religious terms. The name should follow the UAE’s naming guidelines and reflect your business identity.
Reserve the Trade Name and Activity
Register the trade name and business activity with the Department of Economic Development (DED).
Apply for Initial Approval
This is a preliminary green light from the DED to proceed. It confirms that the authorities have no objection to your business.
Sign a Tenancy Contract and Get Ejari
You must rent a commercial shop space suitable for a barber shop. Once rented, register the tenancy contract with Ejari, Dubai’s official rental contract system.
Get Approvals from Dubai Municipality
For barber shops, you need approval from Dubai Municipality – Health and Safety Department. They will inspect your shop for hygiene and safety compliance.
This includes:
- Sterilization and cleaning standards
- Safe use of razors and grooming tools
- Proper ventilation and lighting
- Waiting area and customer hygiene
Submit Documents and Pay Fees
Submit all required documents including:
- Passport copies
- Emirates ID (if resident)
- Ejari
- Initial approval
- Tenancy contract
- Municipal approval
Once approved, pay the license fee, and you’ll receive your barber shop trade license.
Required Documents for Barber Shop License in Dubai
To get your license, you’ll need:
- Passport copy of the owner(s)
- Emirates ID (if UAE resident)
- UAE entry stamp (if non-resident)
- Trade name approval
- Ejari and tenancy contract
- Initial DED approval
- Passport-sized photos
- Dubai Municipality approval
Documents must be up-to-date, clear, and valid.
Cost of Barber Shop License in Dubai
The cost depends on your shop size, location, and number of staff, but here’s a general breakdown:
- DED license fees: AED 7,000 – AED 12,000
- Ejari and tenancy: AED 15,000 – AED 40,000 (yearly rent)
- Municipality hygiene approval: AED 2,000 – AED 4,000
- Interior setup and salon furniture: AED 25,000 – AED 70,000
- Trade name and government fees: AED 1,000 – AED 2,500
The total initial investment can range from AED 45,000 to AED 100,000 depending on size and services offered.
Hygiene and Safety Rules for Barber Shops
Dubai Municipality has clear hygiene rules for barber shops to protect both clients and employees.
Sterilization Requirements
All tools like razors, scissors, and combs must be:
- Sterilized after every use
- Stored in clean, dry containers
- Disposed if single-use
Facility Cleanliness
Floors, chairs, sinks, and towels must be cleaned and sanitized regularly. Disposable items like capes and neck strips are encouraged.
Ventilation and Lighting
Your shop must have:
- Good airflow and odor control
- Bright lighting for clear visibility
- A separate sink area for hair washing
Failing to comply can result in fines or license cancellation.
Interior Design Guidelines for a Barber Shop
Your barber shop layout must meet municipality-approved design standards. This includes:
- Reception area with seating
- Haircut stations with mirrors and tool holders
- Washing stations with proper plumbing
- Separate storage area for equipment and cleaning materials
- Clean and accessible restroom
The setup must be comfortable, clean, and visually appealing to attract clients and pass inspections.
Hiring Staff for a Barber Shop in Dubai
You can hire barbers, cleaners, and receptionists, but each must meet Dubai’s labor and licensing rules.
Staff Requirements
- Barbers must have experience and relevant certifications.
- Apply for work permits and residence visas for foreign staff.
- Local hiring is encouraged where possible.
You must provide medical insurance and valid employment contracts to all employees.
Can You Offer Home Services with This License?
With a standard barber shop license, home service is not automatically allowed. If you wish to provide home haircuts or mobile barbering, you’ll need to add a professional service activity or apply for a special mobile salon permit.
Be clear with DED and request this during application if needed.
Barber Shop License Renewal in Dubai
Your license is valid for 1 year and must be renewed annually. Requirements include:
- Updated tenancy contract
- Valid Ejari
- Payment of renewal fee
- Updated trade license copy
You can renew it via the DED eServices portal or with help from business setup consultants.
Benefits of Setting Up a Barber Shop in Dubai
- High demand in urban and tourist areas
- Low competition in some neighborhoods
- Growing interest in male grooming trends
- Possibility to expand to a chain of outlets
- Serve locals, expats, and tourists
Dubai offers a mix of luxury, tradition, and modern lifestyle—perfect for a grooming business to thrive.
Challenges to Consider Before Starting
While the opportunity is strong, be prepared for:
- Initial setup costs and high rents in prime areas
- Competition in busy districts
- Hygiene inspections and compliance
- Hiring qualified and certified staff
Proper planning, budgeting, and location selection can help overcome these challenges.
Marketing Tips to Grow Your Barber Shop in Dubai
Once you’re licensed, you’ll need to attract customers. Use these tips:
- Set up a Google Business Profile
- Use Instagram and TikTok to show grooming results
- Offer discounts or referral bonuses
- Partner with gyms or fitness centers nearby
- Provide loyalty cards and prepaid haircut packages
Good marketing helps your business grow faster in a competitive market.
Can Women Open a Men’s Barber Shop in Dubai?
Yes, women can open and manage a men’s grooming business. However, only male staff can provide barber services to male clients. The owner can be of any gender, but the staff-customer interaction rules must be followed.
Franchise Option vs. Independent Barber Shop
You can choose to:
- Start your own brand, or
- Join a barber shop franchise
Franchises may offer:
- Brand recognition
- Standardized setup
- Training and marketing support
But they come with higher fees and less control. Decide based on your budget and goals.
Conclusion
Getting a barber shop license in Dubai, UAE is your gateway to building a thriving grooming business in one of the world’s most style-conscious cities. With a clear plan, legal guidance, and attention to hygiene rules, your dream can become a reality. Dubai offers a strong market, steady demand, and a business-friendly system.
For a smooth, error-free experience, work with experts who understand the rules. Your journey to opening a successful grooming business starts with the right help—choose trusted support for your Business Setup in Dubai, UAE.
FAQs
Can a foreigner open a barber shop in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can own 100% of the business with the right mainland license and approvals.
How much does a barber shop license cost in Dubai?
License fees start from AED 7,000. Total setup cost ranges from AED 45,000 to AED 100,000 depending on location and shop size.
Is it mandatory to get Dubai Municipality approval?
Yes, hygiene and safety approval from Dubai Municipality is required before opening a barber shop.
Can I offer home haircut services with a standard license?
No, home services need additional permissions. Apply for a mobile barbering or professional services license.
Do I need a local sponsor?
No, under the new laws, 100% ownership is allowed for mainland barber shops in most cases.
How many employees can I hire?
You can hire as many as your shop size and labor quota allow, but each must have valid work permits and qualifications.
Is VAT registration required for a barber shop?
If your turnover exceeds AED 375,000 annually, VAT registration is mandatory.
How long does the license process take?
If all documents are ready, you can receive your license within 5–7 working days.
Can I open multiple branches under one license?
No, each branch needs its own license, but you can operate under the same trade name.
Who can help me with the setup process?
You can hire professional business consultants in Dubai who handle the paperwork, approvals, and licensing from start to finish.
