How to Start a Biotechnology Company in Dubai?

Dubai is slowly turning into a powerhouse of biotechnology and life sciences. As the city is swiftly growing in the health and science sectors, the government is aiming to invest in industries other than oil. With strong corporate support and liberal rules, it creates a conducive environment for medicine and biotechnology companies in Dubai, encouraging research, medicine discovery, and health technology.

This article covers everything you need to know about the biotech company launch in Dubai, including the ideal locations, expected costs, regulatory obligations, government support arrangements, and other legal considerations.

Reasons to Set up New Biotech Startup Companies in Dubai

The Emirate of Dubai is evolving as a life sciences hub, creating a great area for biotechnology companies in Dubai. The UAE’s Vision 2030 plan aims to nurture healthcare and medicine in the country by producing half of the drugs locally, benefiting biotech companies in Dubai and other global ventures.

Here’s why Dubai is the best platform for biotech enterprises:

1. Strategic Location and Global Reach

Strategically located between Asia, Europe, and Africa, Dubai allows businesses to access a potential audience of over 3 billion in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, and transport products around the world through Jebel Ali Port and Dubai International Airport.

• Costs: Since Dubai is situated next to major trade routes, shipping and production charges are cheaper.
• Market Access: Biotech companies in Dubai can conveniently access nearby high-growth markets.

2. Government Support and Vision 2030

The UAE government supports the biotech industry through its Vision 2030, Operation 300Bn, and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund, which offers soft loans for startups, industry-specific grants, labs, and other business incentives.

• Funding & Accelerators: Programs like Dubai Future Accelerators help biotech UAE scale and grow.
• Industry Events: Shows like the Arab Health Exhibition allow biotech companies to connect with over 100,000 professionals.

3. Strong Rules and Standards

MOHAP, DHA, and EDE in Dubai have established a clear set of regulations for healthcare and the biotech sectors that adhere to international standards and ensure that the products and research are safe and ethical.

• Quick Approvals: The process to obtain a license is straightforward and quick.
• Global Standards: Dubai has adopted standards by the WHO and the FDA.

4. Tax Benefits and Full Ownership

Top biotech companies in UAE that are located in Dubai Science Park and Dubai Healthcare City receive major benefits, such as retaining 100% of the company profits, 0% corporate and personal income tax, and full repatriation of profits abroad.

• No Taxes: No income or corporate tax for biotechnology companies in Dubai.
• Benefits: No customs duties on biotech supplies.

Top Freezones for Biotechnology Companies in Dubai

Several free zones are designed specifically for biotech UAE, each with its own advantages. Here, we have compared different free zones to help you make an educated decision:-

1. Dubai Science Park

Previously known as DuBiotech, this free zone is home to more than 400 companies, including pharmaceutical, life sciences, multinational blue-chip firms with LEED-certified labs, and biotechnology companies in UAE.

• Facilities: Wet and dry labs and BSL labs.
• Cost: Lab space and office space.
• Benefits: Networking events and life sciences professionals.
• Best for: New biotech startup companies in Dubai, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and lab testing.

2. Dubai Healthcare City

Focuses on clinical research, healthtech, and genomics, and home of Mohammed Bin Rashid University.

• Infrastructure: Advanced clinical trial facilities and healthcare system.
• Advantages: Useful for medical diagnostics and patient data analysis.
• Best for: Clinical study, healthtech, and personalized medicine.

3. Jebel Ali Free Zone

Situated close to Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum Airport, this free zone specializes in pharmaceutical manufacturing and trade.

• Facilities: Industrial buildings and biosimilar manufacturing.
• Explanation: Access to the MENA region and exemption from customs.

Permissible Activities in Biotechnology Companies in Dubai

Top biotech companies in UAE are allowed to carry out the following activities:-

• Biotechnology and Life Sciences: Research, development, and manufacturing products of biotechnology, including pharmaceuticals and vaccines, and medical devices.
• Research and Development: R&D activities in biotechnology, life sciences, and related fields.
• Manufacturing: Producing products related to Biotechnology, including Biochemical, Biofuels, and Bioplastics.
• Trading: Import, Export, and Distribution of biotech products, including medical tools and supplies.
• Provision of Services associated with Biotechnology: Service Provision, Consultancy, Testing, and Training
• Educational and training programs: Workshops and training on Biotechnology and Life Sciences.
• Medical care: Medical centers, dispensaries, clinics, and laboratories.

Establishing Biotechnology Companies in UAE: Step-by-Step Guide

Following this transparent, ready-for-action strategy can ensure smooth incorporation of biotech companies in UAE:-

Step 1: Specify your Business Activity

Define the area you would be focusing on in the biotech industry, such as drug manufacturing, clinical research, bioinformatics, diagnostics, therapeutics, medical devices, agricultural biotech, or environmental biotech. Based on this decision, you can determine your license and your physical space. Also, make sure your business activity aligns with the rules of the free zone.

Step 2: Select your Business Type and Jurisdiction

Choose a jurisdiction – Mainland or Free zone – and based on that, select a legal structure. While Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions, the mainland provides direct access to the UAE market. Free zones that are specifically designed for biotechnology companies in Dubai include Dubai Science Park, DHCC, JAFZA, and Dubai Silicon Oasis.

Step 3: Reserve a Trade Name

The business name you choose for your biotech company must adhere to UAE naming conventions. Once finalized, send it to the relevant authority in your jurisdiction for approval. Always remember to avoid any religious, offensive, or kinky words.

Step 4: Secure Initial Approvals

Depending on your selected free zone, seek an initial approval from MOHAP, DHA, or DTMFZA and present your business plan, shareholder details, and passport copies.

Step 5: Get Licensed

Obtain a license based on your activity – commercial, industrial, or consulting – through the free zone authority or DET. Submit your MoA, SoA, and NOC from sponsors to secure your license.

Step 6: Set up your Facility

Select a facility, such as wet labs, dry labs, or warehouses, in accordance with the GMP requirements and ensure compliance with biosafety level (BSL)-1 to BSL-3. Get safety approvals and certificates from the Dubai Municipality and Civil Defence.

Step 7: Registration of products with MOHAP

Submit a report for registration to MOHAP if your business involves pharmaceutical products or medical devices. Provide medical, safety data, and copies of GMP compliance. Using our professional PRO services can help simplify the process.

Step 8: Employ and Train High Quality Staff

Hire biotech experts, pharmacists, and regulatory experts, and train them regularly to ensure a high level of standards. To access more talent, collaborate with universities in the UAE.

Step 9: Open a Bank Account

Set up a corporate bank account in a trusted bank such as Emirates NBD, HSBC, or Mashreq, and deposit share capital of AED 50,000-300,000, depending on your selected activity. Submit necessary documents, including your business license and MoA.

Step 10: Create your Marketing and Distribution Plans

Market your biotech products through an effective campaign and use digital marketing, SEO, social media, and industry events for exposure and networking with healthcare professionals. To penetrate better in the market better, collaborate with MENA distributors.

Costs Involved in Setting Up Biotech Companies in Dubai

The overall cost of setting up a biotechnology in Dubai may range from AED 18,000*. However, the prices may vary depending on factors like the location of the company, license type, and facility needs. Significant additional costs may include lab fit-out and office space.

For a detailed breakdown of the company setup cost, speak with one of the agents at Dubiz.

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Regulatory Requirements for Biotechnology Companies in Dubai

Handwaving won’t cut it when you’re a biotech company in Dubai. Here’s how to stay compliant:

MOHAP and DHA Regulations

The registration of pharmaceuticals, clinical trials, and import permits is regulated by MOHAP, while DHA oversees Dubai’s healthcare system. The applicant needs to submit a business plan, facility layout, and ethics. It usually takes 3 to 10 days for initial approvals and 3 to 12 months for product registration.

GMP Certification and Product Registration

GMP certification is mandatory for pharmaceutical products. To register these products, the company must provide clinical evidence and safety documentation to MOHAP along with local studies.

Biosafety and Ethical Considerations

Biological safety at biohazard B to level BSL-3, including adherence to the Data Protection Law in the UAE for genetic data, including clinical research. The business must use autoclaves, fume hoods, and negative-pressure airflow as safety precautions. Likewise, for clinical trials, they must get approval from a specific Ethical Committee/Institutional Review Board (IRB).

Government Incentives and Support for Biotech Dubai

The government’s robust support aids biotech startups through funding, visas, and accelerators.

Funding and Accelerator Programs

Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund (MBRIF) provides soft loans for startups, whereas the Dubai Future District Fund supports deeptech and biotech. On the other hand, Dubai Future Accelerators: 9-week programs connect startups with government entities.

Golden Visa for Biotech Entrepreneurs

PhD holders, STEM graduates, and biotech founders can get 10-year residency through the UAE’s Golden Visa program and avail family sponsorship and talent recruitment. The candidates applying for this visa must have proven expertise in biotechnology or healthcare innovation.

Biotech UAE: Emerging Trends in the Industry

By focusing on innovation and sustainability, the biotech sector in Dubai is evolving rapidly.

AI and Bioinformatics in Biotech

AI biotech and bioinformatics are developing drug innovation and genomics facilitated by Dubai’s tech ecosystem and Dubai Silicon Oasis. It applies AI with diagnostics, lab infrastructure, and precision medicine. Biotech companies and professionals can avail the opportunity of partnering with tech incubators like Dtec.

Sustainable Biotech Practices

With DSP’s LEED-certified laboratories leading the charge, sustainable biotech, like green manufacturing and eco-friendly labs, is becoming a global trend, causing less environmental impact and more resource saving. The biotech companies must invest in recycling systems and energy-efficient equipment.

List of Biotechnology Companies in UAE

Here is a list of top biotech companies in UAE:-

• NewBridge Pharmaceuticals
• Pharmax
• G42 Healthcare
• PureHealth
• CellSave
• GlobalPharma
• Modern Pharmaceutical
• NewBridge Pharmaceuticals
• Shalina Healthcare
• Virax Biolabs

Conclusion

Thus, biotechnology companies in Dubai are a vital contributor to the growth of the city’s health and science sector. The Emirate’s modern amenities, tax incentives, and stable government funding support biotech startups and medicine companies, thereby enhancing human health, food production, primary materials, and ecosystems, and transforming the science and medical sector globally.

Note: The information provided here is to the best of our knowledge, but is subject to changes made in policy and regulations by the UAE authorities.

Partner with Dubiz

Partnering with a specialist like Dubiz can ensure end-to-end support in location selection, document preparation, application submission, bank account opening, visa processing, and other incorporation services. Our experts will efficiently navigate you through the regulatory steps to ensure smooth approval and a trouble-free company setup.

Dubiz will be your trusted partner throughout your journey.

📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485

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📧 Email: info@dubiz.co

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