
Hidden Costs in Dubai Business Setup: What Consultancies Don’t Tell You.
- AZ
- May 17, 2025
- News and Tips
- Banking, Business, Business Setups, Finance
- 0 Comments
“Dubai Business Setup: The Shocking Hidden Costs No One Warns You About”
Think you’ve budgeted for your Dubai company setup? Think again—70% of entrepreneurs face cost overruns of 40–150% due to hidden fees masked as “compliance requirements” or “government charges.” From inflated banking facilitation fees to fictitious “regulatory surcharges” and mandatory office setups, consultancies exploit complexity to trap clients in escalating costs.
At LiftUp Consultancy, we break this cycle with 100% transparent pricing—no surprises, no hidden markups, just honest breakdowns from day one. Don’t let hidden fees hijack your Dubai dream—know the real costs before you commit.
The Truth About Dubai Business Setup Quotes
Initial quotations often omit dozens of charges that surface only after you’ve committed. Over 70% of entrepreneurs face budget overruns, thanks to costs like government attestation, visa processing, and “consultation” charges that were never disclosed. Consultancies often present these as newly required services to justify last-minute price hikes—leaving clients no choice but to pay up or risk an incomplete setup.
Hidden Banking Fees in Dubai: A Silent Profit Center
While “banking assistance” may appear in your proposal, it rarely includes all the costs. Document preparation, bank relationship facilitation, processing charges, and ongoing support often add $5,000–$10,000 to your total cost. Some firms delay the banking conversation until after the company is formed, increasing time pressure and forcing you into overpriced solutions.
Marked-Up Government Fees: The Hidden Margin Trick
Government fees are often inflated by 150–300%, disguised as “official costs” or “urgent processing fees.” Real free zone registration costs typically range from AED 10,000–25,000, but consultancies insert padded figures to quietly boost their margins. Other hidden fees include:
- License amendments
- Visa charges
- Certificate attestations
- “Regulatory surcharges” that don’t even exist officially
Office Setup Scams: Hidden Costs That Delay Your Launch
Office setup often goes from optional to “mandatory” after you’ve committed. Suddenly, you’re being told to pay AED 15,000–50,000+ for a workspace, furniture, utilities, or even signage—often under the guise of banking or compliance requirements. You’ll also encounter surprise expenses like:
- Company stamp creation
- Business cards
- Internet setup
- Signage and printing
These are bundled as “essential services” but are heavily marked up beyond vendor prices.
Our Promise: Transparent Business Setup With No Surprises
At LiftUp Consultancy, we don’t just offer company formation—we offer peace of mind. Our proposals include:
- Exact government fee breakdowns at official rates
- Transparent banking service costs
- Zero markups or hidden extras
- Optional office solutions with competitive quotes
And most importantly, we help you plan with complete visibility from day one, so your business can launch smoothly and scale with confidence.
Want to Know the REAL Costs?
Book your free consultation today and get a full, no-obligation breakdown of your Dubai business setup—no hidden fees, no inflated costs, just real clarity.
👉 Start Your Hassle-Free Consultation Now