How to Start a Virtual Reality Business in Dubai

In the past decade, Dubai has rapidly emerged as a major hub for technological innovation, so it should come as no surprise that it is one of the top destinations in the world for establishing a virtual reality (VR) business. Home to a thriving ecosystem that fosters collaboration and innovation, entrepreneurs in Dubai can position their VR businesses for long-term success, right from the get-go.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of starting a virtual reality business in Dubai.

We will discuss the following subjects:

• Key industries adopting VR in Dubai
• How to start a Virtual Reality business in Dubai: step-by-step
• Benefits of starting a Virtual Reality business in Dubai
• Why choose Dtec?

Key industries adopting VR in Dubai

VR is transforming industries across the board, from health to hospitality. Let’s dive a little deeper into three key sectors adopting VR in Dubai at an extraordinary rate.

1. Real estate

The real estate sector in Dubai has fully embraced VR technology – reshaping how properties are purchased, sold and experienced. For instance, with VR capabilities, prospective buyers can explore properties virtually, experiencing detailed walkthroughs without being physically present. This is particularly important in the UAE, where international business owners and expats represent a significant percentage of house buyers. Beyond virtual tours, VR is also being used for pre-construction property visualisation (instead of 3D renders), removing the need for developers to develop physical showrooms and model homes.

2. Tourism and hospitality

As consumers increasingly seek out innovative ways to explore destinations, the virtual tourism market is growing exponentially on a global scale. According to key research from Global Market Insights, the virtual tourism market valuation is predicted to exceed USD 5.7 billion by 2032. With an estimated value of AED 220bn in 2023 and a reputation as a global tourist destination, VR is an essential tool for showcasing attractions in Dubai. Hotels and tour operators use VR to provide virtual previews of accommodations, attractions and activities, enabling tourists to plan their visits with confidence.

3. Education and training

Dubai’s educational institutions and corporate training programs are increasingly integrating VR for interactive learning experiences. From medical simulations to vocational training, VR offers hands-on practice in a controlled environment, improving retention and skill development. At schools, VR enables teachers to create an immersive learning environment, bringing subjects like history and geography to life. Some VR software can even adapt to each child’s preferred learning style and ensure educational programmes are tailored to the individual.

How to start a Virtual Reality business in Dubai: step-by-step

Given the UAE’s lack of bureaucracy and red tape, setting up a Virtual Reality business in Dubai is easier than you might think. However, without local knowledge and experience, it’s easy to go wrong. Our expert advisors are always on hand to answer any questions and advise on the best way to move forward with establishing a business.

However, to give you an idea of what to expect, we’ve divided the process into three simple steps.

Step 1: Connect with Dtec

To give yourself the best chance of success, choosing the right location is crucial. Dtec is at the heart of Dubai’s thriving tech ecosystem, so begin by consulting with the experts. They will be happy to guide you through the initial steps, including defining your VR business activities and selecting an appropriate company name.

Step 2: Confirm your business name and structure

Choosing a business name in Dubai comes with specific rules. Your name must be unique, relevant to your business activities and free from abbreviations or offensive terms. Once you’ve settled on a name, you will need to clearly outline your business activities. For VR businesses, this might include software development, VR hardware sales or offering VR services to specific industries like tourism or education. Defining these details ensures that your business structure and trade license are tailored to your specific goals. Once confirmed, you can decide on the legal structure of your business.

Step 3: Prepare and submit your license application

With the groundwork complete, the next step is to apply for your business license. Dtec can assist in preparing your application, ensuring all necessary documentation is accurate and compliant with Dubai’s business regulations.

Once your license is approved, you can focus on building your virtual reality business and tapping into Dubai’s dynamic tech landscape.

Benefits of starting a virtual reality business in Dubai

So, what are the benefits of launching a virtual reality business in Dubai?

A thriving tech ecosystem

Dubai is one of the world’s leading technology ecosystems. Programmes such as Dubai Future and other government-backed initiatives like Smart Dubai have bolstered this reputation and bring startups and corporations together to solve industry-specific challenges using cutting-edge technology. Expo 2020 has also left a lasting legacy of tech infrastructure and innovation, creating opportunities for VR businesses to integrate with smart city projects and other forward-thinking developments.

Business-friendly policies and free zones

Dubai offers one of the world’s most favourable business environments, with lower entry barriers and streamlined processes for company registration. Many of the city’s free zones, such as Dtec, the largest tech startup coworking space in the Middle East, offer a range of incentives for VR startups, too. Entrepreneurs can enjoy perks including 100% foreign ownership, which allows them to retain full control of their businesses without local partners, and tax exemptions, such as 0% personal income tax and low corporate tax rates.

Robust technological infrastructure

Dubai’s state-of-the-art infrastructure is tailored for tech startups,  from high-speed internet and advanced data centres to coworking spaces equipped with the latest amenities. The city has also made significant investments in 5G networks. This robust infrastructure ensures that VR entrepreneurs can develop and deploy cutting-edge solutions easily and efficiently.

Strategic location for global reach

Dubai’s location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa offers unparalleled connectivity to major global markets. The city is a hub for international business, with world-class transportation infrastructure, including Dubai International Airport and Jebel Ali Port. In numbers, around 80% of the world’s population is within an eight-hour flight from Dubai.

A diverse and tech-savvy population

Dubai’s population is diverse and tech-savvy, with residents and businesses keen to adopt the latest technological advancements. In other words, there is a captive market for VR applications in various industries, including entertainment, retail and healthcare. Dubai’s focus on becoming a smart city has led to increased public and private sector interest in technologies like VR, too.

Why choose Dtec?

Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Campus (Dtec) is a premier destination for tech startups and an ideal choice for launching a virtual reality business in Dubai. Located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, we offer coworking spaces, mentorship programmes and networking opportunities tailored for tech entrepreneurs. At Dtec, entrepreneurs will find a collaborative environment where they can connect with like-minded professionals and industry experts. With access to funding opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant entrepreneurial community, Dtec simplifies the journey of setting up and scaling a VR business.

Ready to launch your VR business in Dubai? Get in touch with our team of advisors today.