Suppose you’re getting ready to start your dream business, and discover you’ve been a victim of business setup fraud. The consultant disappeared, all of your cash is gone, and your business never even obtained a license. Yes, it can happen.
From business consultants with fake credentials to UAE business license scams, and fresh entrepreneurs are the most vulnerable and easy target. By knowing the right questions, you can protect yourself from business license fraud and business startup consultant scams.
In this blog post, we will highlight the five most crucial questions to ask a consultant that will help you identify the red flags beforehand
1. Can You Verify Your Licensing and Registration?
The number one question you can ask of any consultant is to produce their UAE trade license. Consultants operate without formal registration, or even overseas, and may disappear after taking your money. A real consultant gives you license numbers associated with a local address. You can cross-verify information through the free zone authority or the Department of Economic Development (DED). This keeps phony business consultants from hiding behind slick marketing.
2. What Exactly Is Included in Your Business Package?
Consultants sometimes advertise low prices upfront, only to surprise you with hidden fees later. Ask for a fully itemized proposal. It should list fees like license application, Emirates ID, visa processing, office rent, PRO services, and renewals. Without this, you risk hidden business setup charges or business license fraud, with consultants charging extra for standard items. Be wary of vague pricing or unrealistic discounts.
3. What Is Your Expected Timeline, and What Can Delay It?
Some promise you’ll have a license in “just two days.” That rarely happens. Licensing timelines depend on approvals, medical checks, and office documentation. Ask for realistic timeframes and what dependencies exist. Ask: what approvals can get delayed, and how will you stay updated? This stops surprises during legal processes and avoids the UAE business consultant checklist.
4. Can You Provide References or Case Studies from Similar Clients?
If your consultant has happy clients, they’ll be glad to share. Ask to speak with past entrepreneurs whose business activity and jurisdiction match yours. Client stories or testimonials show they handled similar setups effectively and transparently. Without these, you risk startup consultant scams masked behind good sales pitches. Finding real reviews matters.
5. How Do You Handle Additional or Change Requests?
Growth happens. You may want extra services later, like visa renewals, license upgrades, or adding new activities. Ask up front: how do you handle price changes? Will I get a quote first? Is there a penalty? If they hesitate or give vague answers, it might hide business license fraud or business package fraud in future dealings. Clarity now prevents conflict later.
Common UAE Business License Scams to Watch For
- Unregistered consultants are collecting fees without an office or license.
- Packages with hidden costs, such as PRO services or Ejari fees.
- Fake promises of fast approvals in impossible timelines.
- Unclear refund or extension clauses if the setup fails.
- Fake partnership claims with free zones or government entities.
These traps lead to wasted time and lost funds.
Table: Question vs Risk vs What to Expect
| Question to Ask | Risk If Skipped | What You Should Get in Response |
| Show trade license and local registration | Fake business consultants disappear after payment | Valid license number, registered address, and official documents |
| Itemized breakdown of business package | Hidden business setup charges post-signing | Detailed quote covering license, visas, PRO, renewals, and extras |
| Timeline and delay dependencies | Unrealistic “2-day” license promises | Transparent timelines showing approval steps and typical delays |
| References from similar clients | Startup consultant scams without proof | Genuine client references or case studies matching your setup type |
| Policy on changes and upgrades | License fraud or package fraud later | Clear terms on pricing, process, and communication for changes |
Dub‑mc
Dub‑mc is a UAE-based business setup consultant with proper registration and real client reviews on their website. They support Mainland and Freezone licenses, Golden Visas, and post-setup compliance. They provide transparent quotes, realistic timelines, and ongoing support. Ask them the five key questions, and they’re ready with answers and documentation.
FAQ
- Can I set up a company without a consultant?
Yes. Many authorities allow online setup via Invest Dubai or freezone portals. But consultants help navigate complexities, especially for Mainland setups.
- What’s a fair price for a setup package?
Freezone setups typically start around AED 5,000–8,000. Mainland setups may cost AED 8,000–12,000 depending on activity and office requirements.
- What documents should I get from my consultant?
At minimum: trade license, office Ejari, visa copies, PRO contracts, and receipt of payments.
- Are hidden fees common?
Unfortunately yes. Always ask for a detailed breakdown before signing.
- What if my consultant disappears mid-process?
Stop payments immediately. Seek legal advice and notify relevant authorities.
Conclusion
Avoiding business setup scams means trust but verify. Ask the five questions above to vet your consultant on registration, pricing, timelines, client history, and flexibility. Avoid fake consultants, hidden charges, license fraud, or package scams by confirming legitimacy early. With that due diligence, plus backup from trusted names like Dub‑mc, you can launch in the UAE with confidence and compliance.
