Dubai’s property market keeps growing, with real estate transactions hitting AED 634 billion in 2023—a 20% jump from the previous year, according to the Dubai Land Department. More homes, apartments, and commercial spaces mean more demand for maintenance services. From homeowners needing repairs to businesses looking for upkeep, skilled handymen are in constant demand.
By 2025, Dubai’s home maintenance sector is expected to be worth $2.8 billion. That growth is fuelled by rising property developments and a steady need for plumbing, electrical work, AC servicing, and furniture assembly.
For entrepreneurs, this opens up an opportunity to build a stable, profitable business with relatively low startup costs. But success depends on getting the right setup in place and understanding how the market works.
Handyman business in Dubai: Market overview
Over 90% of property owners in Dubai rely on professional maintenance services, with plumbing, AC servicing, and electrical repairs topping the list. The corporate sector is also a growing market, with office spaces, retail units, and hotels all requiring regular maintenance.
Annual maintenance contracts (AMCs) are a major revenue stream, with nearly 60% of homeowners and landlords opting for ongoing service agreements to handle routine and emergency repairs. Platforms like ServiceMarket, Urban Company, and HomeGenie have also made it easier than ever for businesses to connect with customers.
With demand rising across residential and commercial sectors, a handyman business in Dubai has strong earning potential—but getting the setup right is key.
Steps to start a handyman business in Dubai
- Decide on your services
The first step is figuring out what kind of services you’ll offer. Some handyman businesses focus on general maintenance—handling small repairs, fixing fixtures, and assembling furniture. Others specialise in areas like plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, or painting.
AC servicing is a major market in Dubai due to the climate, while short-term rental properties need frequent maintenance between guests. Some businesses work mainly with homeowners, while others cater to offices, property management companies, or landlords managing multiple units.
- Choose between a mainland or free zone setup
Your choice of business setup affects where and how you can operate. A mainland business can work with private customers, businesses, and government clients across the UAE. However, setting up on the mainland tends to have higher costs than a free zone.
A free zone business, on the other hand, comes with tax benefits and simplified administrative processes but is typically limited to working within the free zone or internationally. To take on mainland clients, a free zone company would need to partner with a local distributor or set up a mainland branch.
- Get a handyman business license
To operate legally, you’ll need a technical services license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) for a mainland business or from the relevant free zone authority if you’re setting up in a free zone.
The key steps include:
• Choosing and registering a trade name.
• Applying for initial approvals.
• Submitting a Memorandum of Association (MOA) if required.
• Paying the necessary licensing fees.
If your work involves specialised trades like plumbing or electrical repairs, you may need extra approvals from local authorities.
- Secure a workspace and equipment
You may not need a fixed office, but having a workshop or storage space for tools can be useful.
Essential equipment includes:
• Power tools (drills, saws, sanders).
• Hand tools (hammers, wrenches, screwdrivers).
• Safety gear (gloves, goggles, harnesses for high work).
• A service vehicle for transporting tools and staff.
Startup costs vary depending on the services you offer. A solo operation might require AED 50,000–150,000, while a larger business with multiple technicians and a dedicated workspace could need AED 300,000 or more.
- Hire staff and market your business
If you’re hiring technicians, you’ll need to apply for work visas through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). The number of visas depends on the size of your business.
To attract customers, focus on:
- Google My Business – Helps customers find you locally.
- Online handyman platforms – List your business on ServiceMarket, Urban Company, and HomeGenie.
- Social media marketing – Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok ads can generate leads.
- Referrals and partnerships – Working with real estate agents or property management firms can bring in steady clients.
With the right setup and a strong client base, a handyman business in Dubai can grow into a profitable operation.
Why start a handyman business in Dubai?
Steady demand in residential and commercial markets
Luxury properties, high-rise apartments, and rental homes all require ongoing maintenance. Short-term rentals, in particular, need quick turnaround services. On the commercial side, businesses, retail outlets, and hotels rely on maintenance providers for routine upkeep.
Recurring income from maintenance contracts
Annual maintenance contracts (AMCs) offer businesses steady income by covering ongoing services like AC cleaning, electrical inspections, and plumbing repairs. Many property owners prefer contracts over one-off services, ensuring reliable, long-term revenue.
Low startup costs compared to other businesses
Unlike businesses that require large commercial spaces or expensive inventory, a handyman business can start small. The biggest costs are tools, transportation, and marketing. Many handymen begin as solo operators before expanding.
Opportunity to specialise or offer a broad range of services
Some handyman businesses focus on niche markets like smart home installations or eco-friendly renovations. Others offer general services across multiple trades. Dubai’s growing interest in home automation and energy efficiency creates opportunities for businesses providing modern solutions.
Straightforward licensing and business setup
A technical services licence from the DED or a free zone authority allows business owners to operate legally. The application process is straightforward, with minimal paperwork compared to other sectors. In most cases, approvals can be secured within a few days, making it easier to start operations quickly.
About Worldwide Formations
Since 2008, Worldwide Formations has helped businesses set up and expand in the UAE. We provide complete support for business setup, licensing, visas, tax consulting, and corporate structuring.
As an official agent for all major UAE free zones, we assist with mainland, free zone, and offshore company setups. Whether you’re launching a handyman business or another venture, our experts guide you through every step.
For professional assistance with business setup in Dubai, contact Worldwide Formations today.
