How to Start a Pharmacy Business in Dubai 

The UAE is transforming the Middle East pharmaceutical sector, led by innovation. Government support has taken the UAE pharma sector to the next level. Dubai, especially, is known for its advanced health centres and modern treatment technologies. It is strong geographic location, extraordinary infrastructure, and international healthcare standards make pharmacy indeed a profitable and promising venture here. 

The pharmacy business in Dubai is closely monitored and regulated by the Dubai Healthcare Authority (DHA). Those looking to start and run a pharmacy in Dubai must get the necessary license and permit from DHA.

This guide highlights all the essential information related to starting a pharmacy business in Dubai, including its process, costs, and requirements.

Overview of Pharmacy Business in UAE 

Let us talk about the pharmacy business statistics in UAE first. The UAE’s pharmacy market is steadily expanding, with the market projected to hit USD 6.54 billion by 2029. This figure is the result of the UAE’s strong drive toward investing in its pharmacy sector. Regulatory support and digitalization have contributed to the success of the sector. By the end of 2025, the pharmacy market is expected to achieve a whopping revenue of USD 5.52 billion. 

The increase in health expenditure, government initiatives, the need for advanced healthcare, rising medical tourism, and advances in biotechnology fuel the market’s growth. Dubai’s strategic location and reliable logistics make it a global hub for pharmaceutical trading and distribution. Thus, starting a pharmacy business in Dubai can be a lucrative and sustainable venture. 

What is a Pharmacy in Dubai? 

A pharmacy in Dubai, as defined by law, is a facility to store, prepare, compound, dispense, display, or sell medicinal products directly to the public. It can be a fixed or mobile facility established on a permanent or temporary basis. 

Any person or entity that plans to open a pharmacy in Dubai is required to obtain a license from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) as per local laws. This applies to pharmacies opening on the mainland and in free zones (except DHCC). The DHA pharmacy license is an official permit that legitimizes the operation of a pharmacy in Dubai, giving it a legal status.  

Some of the types of pharmacy license in Dubai include: 

• Community/Retail Pharmacy: Retail standalone pharmacy located at street level, on the ground floor, or situated in larger complexes such as a mall should obtain this license. 
• Hospital Pharmacy: Hospitals need to apply for a separate DHA hospital pharmacy license. 
• Ambulatory Pharmacy License: Ambulatory pharmacy license is meant for outpatient units. 
• Inpatient Pharmacy License: Day surgery clinics where licensed pharmacists offer services need inpatient pharmacy license. 

Legal requirements for Starting a Pharmacy Business in Dubai 

Starting and running a registered pharmacy business in Dubai involves fulfilling specific legal requirements. Below is a list of what is needed: 

• DHA pharmacy license: The facility license issued for pharmacies by the DHA. 
• Trade license from DED/freezone: The official permit required to operate a business in Dubai. 
• Location approval: Infrastructure must be as per DHA pharmacy design requirements and suitable for the services being offered at the pharmacy. 
• Qualified personnel: The technical staff must be qualified and licensed under DHA requirements. 
• Licensed pharmacist: You need to appoint a pharmacist as in charge who is licensed by DHA or holds a valid eligibility letter from DHA. 
• Permits for medication: There may be additional licenses required for dealing in specific medications or medical devices. Similarly, for import or export of medicines, special permits may be required. 

How to open a Pharmacy in Dubai? 

To start a pharmacy business in Dubai, follow this process: 

Step 1 – Market research 

Start by conducting thorough market research. The foundation of a strong business lies in research. It will help you gauge the competition, demand for medicines and health services, and potential target customers. After your market research, you can also create your business plan. 

Step 2 – Jurisdiction selection 

You must decide whether you will open your pharmacy on the mainland or in free zones. Each jurisdiction has its own regulatory authority and pros and cons. Your choice will depend on your business needs and preferences. 

Step 3 – Register trade name 

Select a name for your business with the concerned authority. The name must comply with the local naming rules.  

Step 4 – Get the initial approval 

Apply for the initial approval with the DET or the respective free zone. This is the preliminary permission required for any kind of business setup in Dubai. 

Step 5 – Get initial license from DHA 

DHA’s approval and pharmacy license is a legal requirement for your pharmacy business in Dubai. Here are the steps to get the initial pharmacy license from DHA: 

1. Visit the SHERYAN, DHA’s online licensing portal, and log in.
2. Make an application to HRS (the Health Regulation Sector) through the portal under the ““Healthcare Facility Services” section for “New Facility License”. 
3. Fill the application form and attach the necessary documents, such as:

• Passport copy of owners
• Business plan 
• Trade license (if available)  
• Copy of land registration certificate issued by DM 
• Floor layout plan 
• Trade name reservation certificate

4. HRS will conduct assessment and upon approval, you will receive inactive facility license which will be valid for 1 year. This license needs to be activated before starting operations, which you will learn how to do in the next steps. 

Step 6 – Company registration 

Submit the trade license application with DET or the respective free zone authority, paying the applicable fees. You must reach out to DET or the relevant free zone authority to make an application, pay fees, and receive your trade license. 

• Appointment of a qualified pharmacist as in charge. Also, the other staff must meet DHA qualification requirements as well.  
• Suitable infrastructure and premises as per DHA pharmacy design requirements 

Step 7 – Final licensing from DHA 

Upon your business registration, you will request a final inspection under the “Activate Facility License” service on SHERYAN. This time, you will need to submit the trade license you obtained in the previous step, along with the following requirements: 

After completing the onsite (or offline) assessment and fulfilling all DHA requirements, the HRS will issue the DHA pharmacy license (activating your previously inactive facility license). The license contains your facility name, address, license number, validity period, and the name of the pharmacist in charge. 

Step 8 – Obtaining visas: 

Next up, get the necessary visas for yourself, your employees as may be needed. 

Step 9 – Establish network: 

Build connections with pharmaceutical suppliers, healthcare providers, and distributors. Establishing a strong and professional network will help your business scale faster. 

Step 10 – Ongoing compliance: 

When you finally start operating, make sure you keep up with DHA regulations and its updates. Stay informed and keep your licenses and permits always valid. To stay competitive, you must keep track of market trends and stay ahead of legal requirements. 

Documentation requirement for getting Pharmacy License in Dubai 

Here is the basic documentation required for the pharmacy business setup in Dubai: 

• Passport copy of owners 
• Passport sized photographs 
• Residency visa, if applicable 
• Business plan 
• Pharmacy license 
• Trade license 
• Copy of land registration certificate issued by Dubai Municipality  
• Floor layout plan of pharmacy  
• Lease agreement of premises  
• Trade name reservation certificate 
• Qualification and experience certificates of pharmacist/s 

Please note that there may additional document requirements. We advise you to contact our business setup experts at Dubiz for assistance.  

Cost Involved in Opening a Pharmacy in Dubai 

The cost of pharmacy license in Dubai starts from around AED 12,960* in mainland. The cost of getting approval from Ministry of Health is approximately AED 8,600. There are many other cost elements, including: 

• Initial approval fees 
• Name approval 
• Tasheel fees 
• MOA typing and notarization 
• Inspection charges 
• Office rent 

To get a personalized quotation, we recommend contacting one of our experts at Dubiz Business Setup. 

Benefits of starting a Pharmacy Business in Dubai 

Dubai is a global healthcare hub which offers attractive opportunities for pharmacies and medical shops. Here are the advantages of starting a pharmacy business in Dubai: 

• Promising market: Dubai’s healthcare and pharmaceutical market is booming and expanding significantly. The growing demand for healthcare services drives up the potential for pharmacies. 
• Beneficial tax environment: The favourable tax environment increases the appeal for foreign investors. With no personal income tax, low corporate tax, and other exemptions, your pharmacy can keep most of its profits. 
• Global destination: Dubai’s strategic geographic location makes it an ideal route for those looking to serve international clients and network with international suppliers. That means your pharmacy can flourish in local UAE markets plus reach out to different corners of the world. 
• Easy business: The process of starting a business in Dubai is not that difficult. You can apply for most of the essentials, including trade license and visas, through online portals. Additionally, there is minimal bureaucratic formalities and liberal business policies. 
• Robust regulation: The healthcare sector in Dubai is closely regulated by the DHA. They ensure the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products, control drug prices, and regulate the import and export of medications. 
• International standards: It is ensured that the highest levels of health and professional standards are maintained by pharmacies. The DHA conducts inspections, carries out evaluations, and has established minimum requirements to ensure that the best healthcare services are provided. 

Conclusion

Dubai’s dynamic ecosystem, strategic geographic location, excellent tax environment, and strong government support make it a favourable destination for pharmacies. The growing involvement of the government and the integration of technology into the healthcare sector create a promising environment for pharmaceutical entrepreneurs. 

To start a successful pharmacy business in Dubai, you will need to obtain both a trade license and a pharmacy license. Ensuring that all documentation is accurate will make the licensing process smoother. Seeking assistance from professional company formation specialists in UAE can be highly beneficial, as they handle all the formalities with utmost care and efficiency. 

Let Dubiz help you with your pharmacy business setup 

Dubiz can be your perfect partner for business setup in Dubai. We have helped more than 7000 businesses launch in Dubai in over 8 years of our existence. For your pharmacy business in UAE, we can help you with your trade license, DHA pharmacy license, additional permits, visas, business bank account setup, and compliance.  

Our key advantages: 

• 24/7 expert support 
• Time efficiency 
• Cost optimization 
• Customizable services 
• Ongoing compliance support 

Speak to our expert today, discuss your business requirements, and discover best company formation services. Contact us today: 

📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485
💬 WhatsApp: +971563695485
📧 Email: info@dubiz.co

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