Dubai’s healthcare sector is growing fast, creating great opportunities for professionals who want to open a physiotherapy clinic. With the city’s active lifestyle, sports culture, and rising demand for rehabilitation services, starting a physiotherapy centre in Dubai can be both a rewarding and profitable business.
If you are a physiotherapist or an investor planning to start your own clinic, here’s a simple step-by-step guide that explains how to get approvals, licenses, and set up your physiotherapy centre in Dubai.
Need expert help to set up your physiotherapy centre in Dubai? Contact Raes Associates today for end-to-end business setup support.
Why Start a Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai?
Dubai is known for its active population, from fitness lovers to athletes, everyone values health and recovery. Here’s why opening a physiotherapy centre in Dubai makes sense:
- High demand for rehabilitation and injury recovery services
- Supportive government policies for healthcare investors
- Access to qualified medical professionals from around the world
- 100% business ownership available in Free Zones
- Fast and easy business setup procedures
Mainland or Free Zone – Which Is Better for a Physiotherapy Centre?
Before you start, you’ll need to decide where you want to set up your clinic, Mainland or Free Zone.
- Mainland: Allows you to serve the wider Dubai market and partner with hospitals or insurance companies. Regulated by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).
- Free Zone: Offers 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, and simplified setup. Regulated by the Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA).
Not sure which is right for your business? Talk to Raes Associates, we’ll help you choose the best setup option based on your goals and budget.
Steps to Open a Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai
Starting your clinic is straightforward if you follow the required steps. Here’s what you need to do:
- Choose Your Setup Location
Decide whether you want to open your clinic in Mainland Dubai or a Free Zone. This choice affects your licensing authority and ownership structure.
- Meet Qualification Requirements
You must be a qualified physiotherapist or hire one. The basic criteria include:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Physiotherapy
- Minimum 2 years of clinical experience
- DHA or DHCC assessment exam clearance
- Good Standing Certificate from the medical council
- Professional liability and malpractice insurance
- Reserve a Trade Name and Get Initial Approval
Register your clinic name with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or the respective Free Zone.
Once approved, apply for Initial Approval to confirm that the government has no objection to your business activity.
- Choose and Prepare Your Clinic Space
Select a suitable location that meets DHA/DHCC facility standards, including:
- Treatment rooms and waiting area
- Clean and safe facilities
- Proper ventilation and waste disposal system
- Separate entry and exit points for patients
- Get Your DHA or DHCC License
Apply for two types of approvals:
- Clinic License – for your facility
- Professional License – for each practicing physiotherapist
Submit:
- Passports of owners and staff
- Academic and experience certificates
- Approved floor plan
- Insurance documents
- DHA/DHCC exam results
- Apply for a Commercial License
After health authority approval, apply for your Commercial License from DET (for mainland) or the Free Zone authority.
You can also apply for investor and staff visas and start operating your clinic.
Key Requirements to Set Up a Physiotherapy Centre
To ensure your clinic runs smoothly and legally, here’s what you must have:
- DHA or DHCC Licensing: Both facility and professional licenses are mandatory.
- Qualified Healthcare Staff: Hire licensed physiotherapists with verified qualifications.
- Facility Compliance: Your clinic should meet Dubai Municipality and Civil Defense standards.
- Insurance and Safety: Obtain medical malpractice and staff health insurance.
- Medical Waste Disposal: Register with an approved medical waste management company.
For more insights on UAE business structures, check our guide on Difference Between Mainland and Freezone UAE.
Cost to Open a Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai
The total cost of opening a physiotherapy centre in Dubai depends on your location, clinic size, and approvals. Here’s an estimated cost breakdown:
Expense Category | Estimated Cost (AED) |
Trade name & Initial Approval | 3,000 – 5,000 |
DHA Professional License | 4,000 – 6,000 |
DHA Clinic License | 10,000 – 20,000 |
Commercial License (DET) | 12,000 – 18,000 |
Ejari & Clinic Rent | 30,000 – 100,000+ |
Insurance & Miscellaneous | 5,000 – 10,000 |
Want to know the exact cost for your clinic setup? Contact Raes Associates for a free consultation and personalized quote.
Benefits of Starting a Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai
Opening a physiotherapy clinic in Dubai has many advantages, such as:
- Strong Market Demand: A growing need for rehabilitation and sports therapy services.
- Global Workforce Access: Hire licensed professionals from across the world.
- High Earning Potential: Healthcare is one of Dubai’s most profitable sectors.
- Government Support: Dubai welcomes healthcare startups and provides business incentives.
- Positive Community Impact: Help improve health and wellness in society.
How Raes Associates Can Help You
Starting a healthcare business involves various approvals, but with Raes Associates, the process becomes seamless.
At Raes Associates, we provide complete assistance to help you set up your physiotherapy centre in Dubai, from paperwork to final approval.
Our services include:
- Guidance on choosing Mainland or Free Zone setup
- Trade name registration and licensing
- Support with DHA/DHCC applications
- Legal documentation and visa processing
- Office and clinic lease assistance
- Ongoing compliance and renewal support
Ready to open your physiotherapy centre in Dubai? Contact Raes Associates today for expert setup guidance and start your healthcare journey with confidence!
FAQs on Starting a Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai
- Can I open a physiotherapy clinic in Dubai without being a physiotherapist?
Yes. You can own the clinic, but you must hire a licensed physiotherapist or medical director to operate it. - How long does it take to set up a physiotherapy centre?
Usually 4–8 weeks, depending on DHA or DHCC approvals and documentation. - What licenses do I need?
You need both a facility license (for the clinic) and a professional license (for each physiotherapist). - Can my clinic accept insurance payments?
Yes. Once licensed, you can partner with insurance companies to offer direct billing services.
