UAE Free-zone or Mainland Company with residence visa, employment card and bank account opening.
UAE Free-zone or Mainland Company with residence visa, employment card and bank account opening.
UAE Free-zone or Mainland Company with residence visa, employment card and bank account opening.
UAE Free-zone or Mainland Company with residence visa, employment card and bank account opening.
UAE Free-zone or Mainland Company with residence visa, employment card and bank account opening.
Manage your business and track services |
WIO Bank Official Partner Seamlessly open your UAE Bank Account |
Manage your business and track services |
WIO Bank Official Partner Seamlessly open your UAE Bank Account |
Manage your business and track services |
WIO Bank Official Partner Seamlessly open your UAE Bank Account |
Manage your business and track services |
WIO Bank Official Partner Seamlessly open your UAE Bank Account |
Manage your business and track services |
WIO Bank Official Partner Seamlessly open your UAE Bank Account |
Starting a business in Dubai offers numerous advantages, including zero income tax and a prime, strategic location. However, launching a company is a significant decision that requires careful planning, conceptualising, research, budgeting, set up, and decision-making. It also demands guidance and assistance in selecting the right business license, especially if you are a new entrepreneur. If you're eager to learn how to establish your business in this dynamic city, this guide is for you.
Filings.ae experts are here to support you and ensure your business launch is successful.
Dubai's business landscape is characterised by a blend of local and international influences, providing a diverse and dynamic market. The emirate offers various business structures to cater to different types of enterprises, including:
Before officially starting your business operations in Dubai, you must register your company and obtain the necessary approvals. Here are the essential documents required for company registration in Dubai:
In addition to these documents, you might need to obtain additional approvals depending on the nature of your business activity. Here are some specific approvals required by various ministries and authorities:
Here are some Additional Approvals required depending on Business Activity:
Ministry/Authority | Business Activities Covered |
Ministry of Interior | General transport fire equipment, alarm and safety systems, driving schools, used-car dealers, car rental, and used auto parts. |
Ministry of Justice | Legal consultancy & Legal activities |
Local Municipal Department | Engineering & Architectural affairs |
Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) | Telecommunication activity |
Executive Council | Travel and tourism, charter trading, ship and maritime agencies, general services, car clubs, charter air transport, foreign company branches |
Ministry of Economy | Insurance consultancy & Insurance activities |
Local Health Departments | Health-related activities |
Supreme Petroleum Council | Onshore and offshore oil drilling operations, Offshore & Onshore gas and oil-field services |
Starting a business in Dubai involves several critical steps and considerations. You'll need to decide on the right business activity, determine the type of license required, and choose between setting up in a free zone or on the mainland.
We've outlined seven key steps to help you navigate this process that provide an overview of everything involved.
Starting a business in Dubai involves several steps and considerations. Here's a streamlined guide to help you navigate the process:
When choosing a business activity, ensure it aligns with the UAE market's practicality and demand. Before starting your business in Dubai, it's essential to conduct comprehensive research on the feasibility and profitability of your chosen business activity.
Choose the Right Jurisdiction for Company Setup in Dubai
When setting up a business in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE, you must choose between three jurisdictions based on your chosen activity:
Mainland companies are registered directly with the economic development authority of an emirate. These companies can operate within the entire UAE market and engage in a wide range of commercial activities.
Free zones are designated areas within an emirate governed by their own regulatory authorities. These zones offer benefits tailored to various business activities, such as tax exemptions, 100% foreign ownership, and simplified import/export procedures.
Offshore companies are registered in jurisdictions that allow them to operate outside the UAE while providing benefits like full foreign ownership, tax advantages, and confidentiality.
Choosing the right jurisdiction depends on your business requirements, operational goals, and the nature of your business activity.
Choosing the right legal form for your company is crucial as it impacts your dealings with profits and losses and how you organise resources. Decide your company structure early, as you cannot apply for a business license without it. Options include:
Selecting a company name is a critical and nuanced part of the setup process in Dubai. The UAE has strict guidelines to ensure business names align with cultural, religious, and legal standards. Here are the essential requirements:
Legal Structure Abbreviation: The name must include an abbreviation of the business's legal structure (e.g., LLC, PJSC).
The Department of Economic Development must approve your company's trade name and selected business activity before you proceed. Once approved, you can submit the necessary documents to apply for your UAE trade license.
When submitting your company name for approval, it is advisable to have three name options ready to ensure a higher chance of acceptance.
Choose from four types of trade licenses in the UAE:
The licensing structure varies between the mainland and free zones and depends on your business activity.
Company registration and licensing occur simultaneously but involve several stages of documentation and approvals. As required by the DED, you must obtain all necessary approvals from relevant government authorities.
While finding a local partner was once mandatory, now you can seek corporate sponsorship for 100% ownership. Business setup consultants can assist in connecting you with suitable corporate sponsors.
Filings.ae Can Help You Start Your Business in Dubai!
Depending on your business activity, the DED may require additional approvals from government or non-government agencies, such as municipalities, banks, or embassies.
Draft your Memorandum of Association (MoA) in compliance with UAE mandates, considering your business interests. Expert advice is recommended to navigate the complexities of the MoA.
Choose an office unit or a shared workspace based on your business needs. The size of your office can influence the number of visas you can apply for through the DED.
Sign a tenancy contract with the real estate agency for your office space. Register the contract with Ejari, an online system governed by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), which is necessary for obtaining or renewing visas.
Obtain initial approval from the DED, indicating that the UAE government has no objections to your business setup. Without this approval, you cannot proceed further.
Submit all documents with the required government fees to the DED to receive your trade license. (refer to above). After submitting documents, your application will be reviewed by the relevant authorities for approval.
Once the trade license is issued, you can officially start your business.
Your trade license is the key to accessing essential services in the UAE. The first priority is opening a business bank account.
Applying for a visa is the final step in starting your business in Dubai. Depending on your chosen jurisdiction, your business may be eligible for visas for yourself as an investor and for your employees. While investor visas are generally available for all company types, employee visas must be applied by first registering with the labour department. This ensures that your business complies with UAE labour laws and regulations, facilitating a smooth process for obtaining necessary visas.
If you are considering starting a business in Dubai, this guide offers a comprehensive roadmap to help you through the process. Starting a business in Dubai offers numerous benefits, including zero income tax and a strategic location, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs worldwide. The process requires careful planning, research, and decision-making, involving selecting the right business activity, jurisdiction, and legal structure and obtaining necessary approvals and licenses.
Ready to start your business in Dubai? Let Filings.ae guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to ensure a smooth and successful business launch!
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