It’s no secret that Dubai is a hub for entrepreneurship. Between its business-friendly policies, vibrant startup environment and convenient location, this is a city where bold ideas turn into big successes. And, there’s no age limitation on success either – you can find success in the UAE, no matter how old you are. In fact, in an era of side hustles and unconventional job titles, today’s teenagers are well-positioned to succeed. Their innovation, ambition and digital fluency, combined with Dubai’s supportive and tech-first infrastructure, is the perfect recipe for success. Interested in setting up a business? Here are 15 clever business ideas for teens in Dubai to get you started.
Social media management
Dubai is a city filled with startups and SMES – and what do these businesses need to succeed? A strong social media presence. But not all businesses, particularly those at the start of their journey, have the budget or resources to employ staff or an established agency. Social media is second nature to today’s teenagers, giving them an edge. You could offer services in content creation, scheduling and analytics reporting for platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Content creation
Instead of creating content for a small business or brand, you could create your own brand specialising in content and monetise this through ads, sponsorship and affiliate marketing. Focus on niche topics like gaming or local lifestyle to cut through the noise and build a following. YouTube, TikTok and Instagram are three of the best platforms for content creators.
Web design and development
If you’re skilled in computer literacy or willing to learn skills like HTML, CSS and basic design, you could offer web design and development for local businesses and startups looking to build their online presence from scratch. Platforms like WordPress, Wix and Squarespace make it easier than ever to launch a website, and there are hundreds of thousands of resources available online to help support you along the way.
Virtual assistant services
Virtual assistant services have been around for a while, but demand for them exploded during and after the pandemic, when the whole globe turned online. There’s no sign of demand slowing down either, particularly in environments like Dubai that are well-known SME and startup ecosystems. If you’re organised and a good communicator, you could offer administrative support like email management, data entry or scheduling.
Online tutoring
If you’re still studying, online tutoring could be an excellent way to supplement your income. Who better to help a student than someone experiencing the system themselves? With online platforms like Zoom, Google Meet and Microsoft Teams, it’s never been easier to host virtual sessions either. Plus, Dubai is conveniently located at the heart of Europe, Africa and Asia, making scheduling meetings with clients in multiple markets easier thanks to shorter time differences.
Pet walking or sitting
Pet ownership has increased by 30% in the UAE, and it is still on the rise. But while more and more people are seeking out furry companions, not everyone has the time or inclination to walk them. Dubai is famously popular with expats too, many of whom frequently travel. Offering pet walking and pet sitting services is the perfect business idea for animal lovers, offering an opportunity to earn an income with flexible hours and minimal technical skills or certification.
Mobile car washing
Teenagers have cleaned cars for aeons, but there’s a good reason for that. Car washing is a simple service with little overhead – you can start up a business with minimal startup capital. Plus, car ownership is high in Dubai. You could set your business apart from the rest by specialising in eco-friendly car cleaning services at specific locations or the customer’s home.
Handmade products
If you are creative or have a knack for creating original or beautiful items, it might be time to turn your talent into a business. Dubai boasts a thriving e-commerce landscape, with dozens of online marketplaces like Etsy, Souq.com, Noon and Amazon offering an easy way to reach clients. You can now sell products through social media platforms like Instagram too. Niche, artisanal products are becoming increasingly popular in the UAE, particularly if they are locally sourced or have sustainable credentials.
Upcycling
Upcycling or ‘thrift flipping’ is becoming an increasingly popular trend, particularly as more consumers are seeking out unique, bespoke and sustainably sourced items. If you have an eye for second-hand clothing, accessories or even furniture, you could upcycle or restyle them and resell at a profit. Hop on the ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ bandwagon and maximise online marketplaces to reach a wider customer base.
Study guides and notes marketplace
Dubai has a multi-curriculum education system, which means study guides are highly prized. This low-input business idea simply involves using your existing study materials to help others and make money at the same time. You could create flashcards, cheat sheets for popular exam boards or summarised notes, then use a basic website or Instagram for access and payment. As a student, you could leverage school or tuition networks for first-time buyers too. You could even upsell your offering by providing bundle deals or exclusive early access to exam revision guides.
Event planning and support
Dubai is renowned for its social scene. If you enjoy hosting and organising events, event planning could be an excellent business opportunity. Start small by organising birthday parties, school events or community gatherings while you build relationships with local vendors for catering and supplies. Consider offering different packages to suit a range of budgets to appeal to as many customers as possible. There’s a constant stream of private events across diverse cultural groups in Dubai, so it’s an excellent opportunity to apply creativity and organisational skills, as well as a lucrative business opportunity.
Cloud kitchens
Also known as ‘ghost kitchens’ or ‘virtual kitchens’, a cloud kitchen is a delivery-only food brand that offers niche cuisine. Talented chefs can partner with food delivery platforms like Zomato or Uber Eats and offer a limited menu to streamline operations. You could also leverage social media to showcase your dishes and appeal to customers. It’s the ideal opportunity for food-loving teens to test out recipes without the overheads of a restaurant. You’ll need to ensure you comply with local health and safety regulations before setting up though.
Graphic design
Dubai is a startup-friendly city where good branding is make or break. Graphic design is high in demand, so if you have the skills or commitment to learn, it could be an excellent business opportunity. Services like logo design, social media graphics and marketing materials can be created using software like Canva and Adobe Illustrator.
Home gardening
Urban gardening is on the rise in Dubai, as more people live in apartments with limited outdoor space. Opportunities are ripe for businesses that offer help setting up and maintaining small-scale home gardens, like balconies and vertical gardens. You could offer a monthly maintenance package for busy clients that includes monthly plant care, watering, pruning and pest checks. It’s flexible, requires minimal knowledge and skill and also appeals to modern values around green living.
Online coaching
Specialist online coaching requires extensive training and qualifications, but there is a market for beginner coaching in how to use basic apps or even basic fitness and nutrition. The city is home to a diverse population, including new expats and younger students who may want informal help.
About Set Hub
Set Hub is a leading business setup consultancy in the UAE. We have helped more than 25,000 clients turn their business ideas into a reality. Whether you need help applying for a license or need to open a corporate bank account, our expert advisors are on hand to help. Based in the UAE, we offer local knowledge and on-the-ground expertise to ensure that setting up a business is easy and efficient. For more information on business setup in Dubai with Set Hub, visit our website and get in touch today.
