How to lease your first office in Dubai

With start-up businesses on the rise in Dubai, we have put some pointers together on how to lease your very first office in the city 

If you’re in the throws of setting up a new company, you’ll be aware that an office is an essential part of the process and needed in order to get a trade license.

Application for Trade License

Before contacting a real estate broker, you should have already started the Trade License application. To be able to occupy any commercial real estate in Dubai you must have a company name approved by the authority issuing your Trade License. The full Trade License will be approved after the lease of property is agreed. 

Location of Your Commercial Lease Property

The location you will be searching for your commercial property will depend on the type of trade license you are applying for. There is a Mainland Trade License and a Free Zone Trade License - each have their dedicated trading zones. It is important that you know your zone limits before searching for your property. 

Office Fit-Out

There are four different fit out options available for commercial property; shell and core, fitted, partitioned or fully furnished. It is best to have an idea of which fit out would suit your needs before you begin your search. If you have a vision in mind, shell and core would be an exciting project but it can be costly and time consuming, so this should be kept in mind. If you are looking to get going with your business as soon as possible, a fully furnished unit would be ideal for you. 

Make an Offer

Once you have found a commercial property to rent, make a decision on what you would like to offer. Put the offer to your broker and they will start the negotiating process with the landlord. You must send your company trade license application documents and business owners ID. 

Administration

To seal the deal on your rented office, make sure you have the initial approval for a Trade License and passport.  Take your time to check the contract thoroughly before signing, if you have any questions or queries your commercial property broker can clarify. 

Ejari Registration

When your offer has been accepted, and the contract signed, it is time to register your commercial rental agreement in Dubai through EJARI which means ‘your rent’ in Arabic. Your broker will talk you through this process but you will need your trade license and business owners ID. You will need the EJARI to apply for employee visas depending on the size of your office.