Start a Gaming Business in Dubai
Table of Contents
The UAE’s gaming industry alone is expected to generate over $420 million in revenue by 2024, growing at a steady 5.40% annually, according to Statista.
The gaming market in the UAE is growing fast, especially after the pandemic, when video games became more popular. The industry’s growth is expected to continue in the coming years.
For entrepreneurs, starting a gaming company in Dubai is a smart financial choice. The city’s location and focus on innovation make it a prime spot for gaming businesses.
This guide will help you understand how to start a gaming business in Dubai, including business planning, licensing, picking a location, financing, meeting regulations, and marketing.
Why start a gaming business in Dubai?
Dubai is a top spot for tech and innovation, especially with new technologies like AR (augmented reality) and VR (virtual reality). Setting up a gaming business here has several key advantages:
Prime location and top-notch infrastructure
Dubai is ideally located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it easy to reach global markets. The city has excellent infrastructure, including modern transportation and communication systems. Plus, Dubai’s Free Zones allow 100% foreign ownership and full repatriation of profits, which helps in expanding your business worldwide.
Strong investment in AR & VR
The UAE is leading the way in investing in new technologies like AR and VR. The country offers a business-friendly environment with supportive regulations and incentives. As Dubai continues to invest in these technologies, it will boost the growth and potential of the gaming industry.
Growing digital and entertainment scene
Dubai’s digital and entertainment industries are booming. There’s a growing interest in innovative gaming experiences, and e-gaming is becoming more popular. With new technologies like VR and AR, there are many opportunities for gaming companies to collaborate and grow.
Diverse and tech-savvy audience
Dubai’s diverse population is highly tech-savvy, with many people owning smartphones and enjoying mobile games. The mobile gaming market is expected to hit US$173.6 million by 2024, with more users joining over time. Dubai’s high GDP means people have more disposable income, making it a great place to start a gaming business.
Process of starting a gaming business in Dubai, UAE
Starting a gaming business in Dubai requires careful planning and following the local rules to avoid problems later on.
Step 1: Developing a business plan
The first thing you need is a clear business plan. This plan should include:
- Vision: What do you want to achieve with your gaming business?
- Target audience: Who will be playing your games?
- Product offerings: What kinds of games or services will you offer?
- Revenue model: How will you make money? Will it be through game purchases, ads, or subscriptions?
- Operational strategies: How will you manage your business daily?
- Financial projections: What are your expected costs and earnings?
A well-thought-out business plan will guide you as you start and grow your gaming business, helping you stay focused on your goals.
Step 2: Choose the type of gaming business
The gaming industry offers various business opportunities. Research different types to find the one that best suits your interests and the market. Here are some popular types of gaming businesses:
Game shop
A game shop sells video games, consoles, and accessories like headphones and gaming chairs. It provides a physical space where gamers can browse and buy their favorite products. To stay competitive, keep up with the latest games and trending accessories.
Esports
Esports is growing rapidly, with international tournaments and events gaining popularity. You can start a gaming arena, manage esports teams, or host tournaments. Entering the esports market can be a smart business move due to its expanding global reach.
Game lounge & arcade
Game lounges and arcades are places where gamers can play and relax. These venues attract people who want to play games they can’t enjoy at home or seek a competitive environment. You charge for game time, and with effective marketing, this can be a profitable venture. Gamers often visit arcades to compete with others who share their interests.
Game studio
A game studio develops and publishes video games for consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. Starting a game studio requires significant investment and time. Profits come after your games start selling, but it can be a rewarding business for talented game designers and developers looking for creative expression.
Step 3: Choosing a location
Dubai offers two main options for starting a gaming business: Free Zones or the Mainland.
Free ones (like Dubai Internet City or Dubai Silicon Oasis) offer great benefits, such as 100% foreign ownership, tax breaks, and a supportive environment for tech businesses.
Alternatively, you can set up your business on the Dubai Mainland, but this may require partnering with a local sponsor.
No matter where you choose, make sure to find a space that attracts lots of people, especially gamers and tech enthusiasts, if you plan to open a shop or lounge.
Step 4: Getting trade licenses and permits
To run a gaming business in Dubai, you need to get the right trade licenses and permits from the relevant authorities. These might include:
- A trade license from the Freezone Authority or the Local Authority (DED)
- An entertainment license
- An event permit
- A software development license
- An esports event license
The licenses you need depend on your specific business activities. For example, if you’re hosting esports tournaments, you’ll need an esports event license. However, if you only run a gaming shop, you won’t need this license.
Step 5: Securing financing and capital
Starting a gaming business in Dubai needs a good amount of money for things like licensing, building your space, hiring staff, marketing, and developing your products. Even if the initial cost seems low, you should still find ways to make sure you have enough funds.
Besides using your own money, you can consider other options such as:
- Bank loans
- Venture capital
- Angel investors
Cost of starting a gaming business in Dubai
- Business structure: The type of company you set up.
- Location: Where your business will be based.
- Licensing fees: The costs to get the necessary permits.
- Staffing needs: How many employees you need and their salaries.
- Scale of operations: How big your business is and what kind of services you offer.
| Description | Mainland | Free zone |
| License Registration | AED 15,000 | AED 14,900 |
| Labour & Immigration Registration | AED 1,800 | AED 2,000 |
| Visa Cost (Per Investor) | AED 3,800 | AED 3,750 |
| Employee Visa Cost (Per Employee) | AED 6,500 | As per Freezone Authority |
| Office Rent Cost | Based on Client need | Based on Client need |
| Operational costs such as Utility Bill, Salary, Transportation, Accommodation, and Marketing | Based on your business Needs | Based on your business Needs |
How Khidmath Corporate Services Can Help with Gaming Business Setup in Dubai, UAE?
Starting a gaming business in Dubai can be challenging, especially for international entrepreneurs unfamiliar with the local market and regulations. Khidmath simplifies this process and helps increase your chances of success.
We offer comprehensive services to guide you in establishing and expanding your gaming business in Dubai, including:
- Developing business plans and strategies
- Assisting with company registration and obtaining trade licenses
- Advising on location selection and choosing the right business structure
- Helping secure financing and meet capital requirements
- Ensuring regulatory compliance and providing legal advice
- Creating marketing and growth strategies
- Providing ongoing consultancy and support
By partnering with Khidmath Corporate Services, you can avoid the complexities of setting up a new business in Dubai. We significantly boost your chances of success, allowing you to proceed with confidence.
Our team of experts ensures a smooth, efficient setup, giving you a solid foundation to grow your business.
