Renting an office or shop in Dubai is tied to your trade licence, so the unit has to suit your type of business as well as your budget. We check that before we show you anything.
Commercial Space We Help With
- Fitted and shell and core offices
- Shops and retail units with street frontage
- Space in Business Bay and other business districts
- Short and long lease terms
Before You Sign
Confirm that the unit’s permitted use matches your trade licence, ask who pays for fit out and agree the rent free period if one is offered. The lease is then registered with Ejari, which you need for your licence.
Costs To Plan For
- 5% VAT on the rent, which a VAT registered business can often recover
- A security deposit, commonly around 10% of the yearly rent for commercial space
- The agency fee and Ejari registration
- Fit out costs and approvals if the unit is shell and core
- Service charges and district cooling, if they are not included in the rent
Fitted Or Shell And Core?
A fitted office lets you start work quickly and keeps your upfront spend low. A shell and core unit costs more at the start, but you get a layout built for your team, and landlords often give a longer rent free period to cover the fit out. We help you compare the total cost over the full lease, not just the first year.
Ask for the building’s fit out guidelines early, because some buildings require approved contractors and drawings before work can start, which affects how quickly you can open.
Mainland Or Free Zone
Your licence decides where you can rent. A mainland licence needs mainland space with an Ejari, while a free zone company usually leases inside its free zone. Tell us which licence you hold or plan to get, and we will only show you units that work for it.
Location And Footfall
For an office, think about where your team lives and how clients will reach you. A unit near the metro with visitor parking is easier for everyone. For a shop, footfall decides everything, so we look at the street, the neighbouring businesses and the residential buildings nearby before we recommend a unit.
Lease Length And Break Clauses
Commercial leases are often longer than residential ones. A longer lease can help you negotiate a lower rent or a longer rent free period, but make sure it includes a fair break clause in case your business needs change.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an Ejari for an office?
Yes. A registered Ejari for your office or shop is normally needed to issue or renew a Dubai mainland trade licence, so register the lease as soon as it is signed.
Is there VAT on commercial rent?
Yes. Commercial rent is generally subject to 5% VAT, unlike residential rent. If your company is VAT registered, you may be able to recover it, so ask your accountant.
What is shell and core?
A shell and core unit is handed over without internal walls, ceilings or finishes, so you fit it out to your own design. A fitted unit is ready to use, which saves time but gives you less choice.
How long are commercial leases in Dubai?
Many commercial leases run for one year and are renewed, but longer leases of three to five years are common for larger offices and shops. A longer lease can help you secure a better rent and a longer rent free period for your fit out.
Looking For An Office Or Shop?
Send us your budget and preferred area on WhatsApp. We reply the same day with options that fit.