Business Formation and Setup

Ready to Start a Business in the UAE?

Exploring Business Trade License Types

Offshore and free zones are popular choices for foreign entrepreneurs looking to establish a company in the UAE. Our free zone companies enjoy tax exemptions, 100% ownership, and full repatriation of capital and profits. They can also easily engage in import and export activities. For offshore companies, we assist with registration in the UAE using only an office address. These companies cannot carry out business activities within the UAE but benefit from greater banking privacy. Our services in Dubai mainland provide many advantages, including the ability to conduct multiple business activities, unlimited residency visas, and broader access to global markets. Dubai Mainland offers four categories of business licenses, all issued by the Department of Economic Development. The four categories include:

  • Commercial

  • Professional

  • Tourism

  • Industrial

Starting a Company in the UAE: A Simple Guide

Follow these simple steps to start your company in the UAE smoothly, from choosing activity to getting your trade license.

01
Choose Your Business Activity

The first step is picking what your business will do. The UAE offers over 2,000 activities to choose from.

02
Determine a Legal Structure

Business structure depends on your needs options include LLC, sole establishment, or joint stock company.

03
Register Your Trade Name

Come up with three unique company names. Once one gets approved, you can reserve it for your business.

04
Get Initial Approval

The initial approval, called a ‘No Objection Certificate,’ is issued by the UAE Govt. to proceed with business setup.

05
Create a Memorandum of Association

MOA is required to establish a civil company, LLC, private shareholding, or public shareholding company.

06
Choose Business Location

Most businesses need a physical office to operate. Location depends on your economic zone and business type.

07
Additional Government Approvals

If extra government approval is needed, you must obtain it before proceeding with your business setup process.

08
Document Submission

Submit documents to DED: initial approval, copies, lease contracts (if needed), MOA, and additional approvals.

09
Pay the Dues

Next, pay the required fees, and your business license will be quickly issued to you without any delays.

10
Apply for Residency

Once you receive your license, you become eligible to apply for residency in the UAE quickly and smoothly.

11
Open a Bank Account

Once you have your trade license, you can open a bank account at any UAE bank with expert assistance.

GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR TEAM OF EXPERTS!

Everything You Need to Know

It usually takes 5-7 working days, but it depends on the chosen free zone and their relevant authorities.  

The required documentation for obtaining a trade license includes: 

  1. Trade name registration certificate 
  2. Memorandum of association (MoA) and articles of association (AoA) 
  3. Passport copies of all shareholders 
  4.  Emirates ID, if a residence of UAE. 
  5. Proof of residence 
  6. Business plan 
  7. Bank Statements (if required) 

The cost depends on the chosen business activity, chosen area, and whether physical office space is required or not. To get more information, you can contact us at 9876543210 

The major change that happened in the last year is the implementation of corporate tax. Businesses will be subject to a corporate tax rate of 9% on taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000.