Dubai is one of the fastest-growing business destinations in the world. If you’re planning to start a call center business, there’s no better place. From flexible licensing to access to global markets, the Dubai call center business setup process is smooth and packed with opportunity.
This guide will walk you through how to set up a call center business in Dubai, including license options, costs, requirements, and legal structure.
Understanding the Call Center Business Model in Dubai
A call center business is a service-based company that handles inbound and outbound calls on behalf of other companies. These can include customer service, sales, technical support, and even lead generation.
Why It’s Popular in Dubai
- High demand for outsourcing business setup in Dubai
- Dubai’s multilingual and tech-ready workforce
- Cost-effective operations with global reach
- Business-friendly government policies
From startups to multinational companies, the city supports every scale of contact center license in UAE.
Benefits of Starting a Call Center in Dubai
Before diving into the process, it’s important to understand the advantages of choosing Dubai for your call center.
Key Benefits Include
- 100% foreign ownership in Free Zones
- Access to skilled and multilingual talent
- World-class telecom infrastructure
- Strong legal protection for clients and businesses
- No income or corporate tax (in most Free Zones)
- Efficient visa and employee sponsorship system
When you opt for a customer support center license in Dubai, you’re stepping into a market that rewards service quality, speed, and reliability.
Types of Call Center Services You Can Offer
Depending on your license, you can operate one or more of the following service categories:
Core Services Under Call Center License
- Inbound customer support
- Outbound sales and telemarketing
- Technical help desk
- Appointment scheduling
- Lead generation and market surveys
- Back-office support
Each of these can be covered under a telemarketing license in Dubai or a more comprehensive contact center license in UAE depending on your setup.
Legal Structure for Call Center Business
There are two main options for legal formation:
Mainland vs. Free Zone
- Mainland Dubai: Allows local client servicing, but requires a UAE national as a service agent.
- Free Zones (like DIC, DSO, or DMCC): Full foreign ownership and streamlined call center company registration UAE process.
Most startups choose Free Zones for flexibility, especially for inbound outbound call center Dubai operations targeting international clients.
Call Center License Options in Dubai
You need a proper license to legally run a call center. The call center license in Dubai depends on your activity, client base, and jurisdiction.
License Categories
- Telemarketing License – for outbound sales and promotions
- Call Center License – for full-service contact centers
- Customer Service License – for dedicated support desks
- Outsourcing License – for BPO-style remote operations
Each of these is available in both Free Zone and mainland formats, depending on where you plan to operate.
Call Center License Cost in Dubai
Setting up your business requires budgeting for several components. Here’s a breakdown of the call center license cost in Dubai:
Average Costs for 2025
- License Fee: AED 12,000 – AED 25,000 per year
- Office Lease (required): AED 10,000 – AED 40,000 annually
- Company Registration: AED 8,000 – AED 10,000 one-time
- Visa Cost (per employee): AED 3,000 – AED 5,000
- Telecom Setup and Approvals: Varies by provider
So, the total Dubai call center business setup cost can start from AED 35,000 and scale with staff and infrastructure.
Requirements for Call Center Company Registration UAE
Before applying, make sure you meet the basic requirements. This will ensure your call center company registration UAE process is smooth.
Mandatory Requirements
- At least 1 shareholder (individual or corporate)
- Passport copy of all owners and managers
- Office space within the licensing authority’s jurisdiction
- Telecom approval (from Etisalat or Du)
- Business plan outlining services and operations
These basic steps are mandatory for obtaining your call center license in Dubai legally.
Step-by-Step Process to Set Up a Call Center in Dubai
Here’s how to complete your Dubai call center business setup from start to finish:
Step 1 – Choose Jurisdiction
Decide between mainland and Free Zone based on client needs and control.
Step 2 – Select Business Activity
Choose “Call Center,” “Telemarketing,” or “Customer Service” as the main activity on your license.
Step 3 – Name Reservation and Initial Approval
Submit 3 trade name options to your licensing authority and receive initial approval.
Step 4 – Submit Documents and Sign Agreements
Provide all necessary IDs, passport copies, and agreements to the business authority.
Step 5 – Lease Office and Apply for Telecom Approvals
Your office address must match your license, and you must get telecom approval from a licensed provider.
Step 6 – Receive Your License and Launch Operations
Once approved, you’ll receive your contact center license in UAE and can begin hiring and onboarding clients.
Telecom and Technical Setup for a Call Center
A vital part of a call center license in Dubai is the telecom setup. You can’t operate without approval from Etisalat or Du.
What’s Required
- Valid tenancy contract for your office
- Approval for fixed-line telecom services
- IP telephony setup (VoIP restrictions apply)
- CRM and call recording software integration
Work with approved IT vendors to get the most efficient inbound outbound call center Dubai infrastructure.
Staffing and Visa Support
You’ll need qualified staff to run operations. Dubai makes hiring easy with fast visa issuance for Free Zone and mainland businesses.
Key Hiring Facts
- Fast-track employee visas
- Sponsorship for dependents allowed
- No cap on hiring (depends on office space)
- Freelancers permitted under some Free Zones
Good HR planning is critical to launching a reliable customer support center license Dubai business.
Challenges to Consider
Every business has hurdles. Be aware of these common challenges in setting up a call center business:
Common Issues
- VoIP usage is restricted (use approved systems only)
- Hiring skilled multilingual staff may require time
- Compliance with call center regulations in Dubai is strict
- Office must be in place before license approval
- Cannot operate from residential address
Staying compliant and working with experienced consultants can make the process easier.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dynamic market with international appeal, solid infrastructure, and growth potential, Dubai is the place to be.
Whether you want to start an inbound outbound call center Dubai, offer global telemarketing services, or build a technical support desk, the city offers everything you need.
With full foreign ownership, streamlined licensing, and access to global clients, how to set up a call center business in Dubai is no longer a question—it’s your next move.
BUSINESS SETUP IN DUBAI, UAE is the best decision for entrepreneurs ready to serve, support, and scale.
FAQs
Do I need a local sponsor to open a call center in Dubai?
Not in Free Zones. In mainland, you may need a local service agent.
What’s the minimum investment required?
Around AED 35,000 to AED 50,000 depending on your setup and team size.
Can I run a call center remotely?
No. You must have a physical office and approved telecom setup.
Is VoIP legal for call centers in Dubai?
Only approved VoIP systems are allowed via licensed telecom providers.
What’s the difference between a telemarketing license and a call center license?
Telemarketing is outbound-focused; a call center license includes inbound, outbound, and support.
Can I offer services outside Dubai?
Yes. You can serve clients globally from your Dubai office.
How long does the licensing process take?
Typically 2 to 4 weeks if documents and approvals are in place.
Is CRM software required?
Yes, most call centers use CRM tools for performance tracking and client management.
What Free Zones are best for call centers?
Dubai Internet City (DIC), Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), and DMCC are popular.
Can I start with a small team?
Yes. Many call centers start with just 2–3 agents and scale as needed.
