The rising standard of living, the growth of the hospitality industry, and the constant influx of people have led to an increase in the demand for professional laundry services. Whether it is busy people, serviced apartments, or short-term rental properties, convenience has been prioritized over home laundry. This makes laundry one of the best and service-oriented business concepts in the UAE.

When you intend to venture into this industry, it is important to have an idea about licensing, costs, as well as the procedures to follow during the setup process. This is a step-by-step guide on what you need to know to start a laundry business properly in 2026, with up-to-date regulations and real-life knowledge.

Getting to know the Business of Laundry in the UAE

The laundry business involves the commercial washing of clothing and textiles. This may include washing, dry cleaning, ironing, dry clean shops, stain removal, and specialty cleaning of items such as carpets, curtains, and upholstery.

A variety of operating models exist. There are laundries that deal with walk-in customers and some with pickup and delivery services. Most current systems involve both physical stores and online ordering that provide service to customers in a short time. The simplest laundry system should comply with hygiene standards, water usage regulations, and accepted cleaning procedures.

Is Laundry Business Profitable?

Laundry services business is seen as a low-risk and stable business. Regardless of economic factors, demand is stable because the need for clean clothes is one of the human needs. According to market data, the use of laundry care and equipment is gradually increasing in the UAE due to population and tourism.

Profit margins usually fall between 30 and 50 percent, especially in businesses that offer express service, premium care or even subscription plans. When the right location and quality service are achieved, a laundry business will break even in no time and generate monthly profits.

Advantages of Opening a Laundry Business

There are a number of strengths in starting a laundry business:

• Stable demand by the locals, offices and hospitality clients.
• Repeat customer recurrent revenue.
• Reduced establishment expense relative to most other service firms.
• The possibilities of specialization like eco-friendly or high-quality care.
• The ability to scale easily with various outlets or delivery models.
• Close government subsidy and well organized licensation procedure.

These advantages render laundry a favorable choice among first-time businesspersons and also established investors.

Laundry Industry Leading Business Models

Traditional Walk-in Laundry

This model targets domestic customers and surrounding structures. It is space-intensive but predictable in terms of revenue.

Pickup and Delivery Laundry

Perfectly suited for heavy workers and families. This model opens up more land without relying on foot traffic.

Premium Garment Care

Its goal is to acquire A-level customers who use premium fabrics and branded garments. Margins increase but high quality standards have to be observed.

Laundry Shop or Self-Service Laundry

Purchase appeal and labor accommodation. Volume is high and margins are low.

The choice of model depends on your budget, target audience and long-term goals.

How to start up a Laundry Business

Step 1: Determine your business jurisdiction

You will have a free zone or mainland. A mainland setup gives you the opportunity to serve your customers in the city without any restrictions. This is the most popular option for laundries.

A free zone setup is faster and less expensive. However, additional permits may be required to serve the local market. Your decision will have an impact on cost, workplace requirements, and work flexibility.

Step 2: Choose your business activities

Your trade license should clearly state what services you intend to provide. Common activities include:

• Laundry and ironing
• Dry cleaning
• Stain treatment
• Pickup and delivery
• Carpet and furniture cleaning

Choosing the right type of activity will eliminate time-consuming and subsequent changes.

Step 3: Choose a business name

The business name should comply with local naming policies. It should not contain obscene words, religious expressions, and other existing brand references. This name will have to be accepted and then the next step will come.

Step 4: Apply for initial approval

Initial registration will ensure that the government does not oppose your business concept in any way. The most common documents are passport documents, visa documents, and simple business details. In the case of physical shops, a rental agreement is also discussed.

Step 5: Obtain a trade license

After the initial approval, you should apply for a trade license. The license is usually issued for a period of one year and must be renewed every year. Once it is issued, your business has the legal right to exist.

Step 6: Secure a location

Location is a critical factor for success. The residential population in the areas where they operate regularly is willing to give them daily business, while areas near hotels and serviced apartments are open for bulk contracts. Make sure the premises are clean and safe.

Continue Reading: How To Get KHDA License In Dubai: Cost, Process & Requirement

Step 7: Obtain municipal and health permits

Laundry businesses must comply with health, safety, and environmental regulations. Inspections include monitoring water usage, chemical storage, ventilation, and waste disposal. Approval is required before operations can begin.

Step 8: Purchase and fit equipment

This will require commercial-grade washing machines, dry cleaners, ironing facilities, and drainage facilities. This can be done with energy-efficient machines that can help reduce utility costs and increase profitability in the long run.

Step 9: Hire and train staff

A professional staff increases the quality of service and reduces the risk of damage. Training should be on fabric handling, machine operation, customer service, and hygiene practices.

Step 10: Open a corporate bank account.

A business bank account is required to handle payments, payroll, and supplier transactions. Banks usually ask for licensing documents, shareholder details, and business activity information.

Online Revolution in the Washing Industry

Modern laundry companies are going digital. Online booking, pickups through apps, digital payments and order tracking are becoming part of the new norms. Customers value speed, transparency and convenience.

Companies that use simple digital tools experience improvements in customer retention and operational efficiency. Companies that fail to embrace digital trends will be left behind.

Marketing Tips for Laundry Businesses

Effective marketing will really differentiate your business:

• Leverage local search listings and customer reviews to gain people's confidence.
• Advertise the convenience of pickup and delivery.
• Introduce subscription and referral offers.
• Work with gyms, salons, and serviced apartments.
• Showcase your cleaning results through social media by sharing Before and After pictures.
• Excellent customer service merged with clever marketing results in customer loyalty.

Read More: How To Start A Branch Office In Dubai, UAE: A Complete Guide (2026)

Professional support for laundry business setup in Dubai

Starting a laundry business requires various licensing, approvals, location, compliance, etc. Therefore, expert advice in this area can mean saving time and money.

DBS Group offers complete business setup support, from trade licensing, documentation, approvals, banking assistance to ongoing compliance services. The team is familiar with local regulations and also helps entrepreneurs set up to avoid costly, serious mistakes. If you are planning to open a laundry business in 2026 and want a smooth, compliant and stress-free start, get in touch today!