How to Start a Flower Shop in Dubai — A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Dubai’s love for luxury, celebration, and beauty has turned the floral industry into a blooming opportunity for entrepreneurs. Whether it’s weddings, corporate events, or daily gifting, the demand for premium flowers is constant. If you dream of turning your passion for flowers into a profitable venture, this guide will help you understand exactly how to start a flower shop in Dubai — from licensing to setup and marketing.
With Almalia Consulting FZCO, setting up your flower business becomes effortless — from obtaining your trade license to complete business setup in Dubai with accounting and compliance support.
Why Start a Flower Shop in Dubai
Dubai’s flower market is expanding due to its vibrant event culture and steady tourism. From personal gifts to large corporate arrangements, there is consistent demand for high-quality flowers and creative designs.
Key reasons to start a flower shop in Dubai include:
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Year-round demand for flowers and decor services.
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Growing opportunities to collaborate with event planners and hotels.
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Availability of high-quality imported flowers.
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Scope for online flower delivery businesses.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Model
Your first step is to decide how you want to structure your business. You can choose among:
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Retail Flower Shop – A physical store for walk-in customers.
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Online Flower Delivery – Operate through an e-commerce platform offering citywide delivery.
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Wholesale Supply – Supply to hotels, decorators, and event management companies.
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Hybrid Model – Combine both retail and online operations for greater flexibility.
Each model affects your license type, cost, and marketing strategy.
Step 2: Select the Right Jurisdiction
You can open your flower shop either in the Dubai Mainland or a Free Zone.
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Mainland Business Setup: Allows you to sell directly to customers across the UAE and operate from a physical location.
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Free Zone Business Setup: Suitable for online or export-based businesses with cost-effective packages and simplified setup.
Mainland offers wider access to customers, while Free Zones provide tax benefits and streamlined registration.
Step 3: Obtain a Trade License
To legally start a flower shop in Dubai, you must obtain a trade license from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or a relevant Free Zone authority.
Your license may include activities such as:
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Retail sale of flowers and ornamental plants.
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Floral arrangement and decoration services.
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Gift wrapping and event flower design.
You will also need to provide necessary documents such as your business plan, passport copies, and a tenancy contract if you plan to operate a physical shop.
Step 4: Estimate Your Setup Costs
The total cost of business setup in Dubai for a flower shop depends on your business type and location.
| Setup Type | Estimated Cost (AED) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Mainland Shop | 20,000 – 35,000 | License, local approvals, and rent |
| Free Zone Setup | 12,000 – 25,000 | License, virtual office, and permits |
| Retail Store (with showroom) | 40,000 – 60,000 | Fit-out, permits, imports, and branding |
Other costs may include visa fees, refrigeration equipment, delivery vehicles, and digital marketing.
Step 5: Register Your Business Name
Choose a business name that represents your floral theme and complies with UAE naming guidelines. Avoid religious or offensive words and ensure the name is unique. Once approved, you can proceed with your company registration and begin operations.
Step 6: Build Your Supply Chain
Reliable suppliers are essential for a flower shop. Build relationships with international suppliers from the Netherlands, Kenya, or Thailand, and ensure consistent delivery of fresh flowers.
Invest in temperature-controlled storage and vehicles to maintain product freshness and quality.
Step 7: Create an Online Presence
A strong online presence can help your flower shop reach a larger audience.
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Develop a professional website showcasing your arrangements.
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Use SEO techniques targeting keywords like “Start a Flower Shop in Dubai” and “Flower Business Setup Dubai.”
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Create active social media profiles and collaborate with local influencers.
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Offer online ordering, same-day delivery, and seasonal offers.
Step 8: Maintain Compliance
To operate smoothly, ensure your business remains compliant with UAE commercial and tax laws.
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Register for UAE VAT if your turnover exceeds AED 375,000.
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Maintain accurate accounting and bookkeeping records.
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Renew your trade license annually.
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Follow health and safety standards in your store.