Company Registration in Dubai, UAE
Registering a Company in Dubai
Dubai, the dynamic hub of the United Arab Emirates, has emerged as a global business destination in recent years. The city offers entrepreneurs and investors plenty of opportunities and advantages. Dubai company registration has access to a booming economy, a strategic location, and a supportive business environment.
What is business registration in Dubai and the UAE?
Registering a company in Dubai or the UAE means creating a legal entity to do business there. This involves obtaining the necessary licenses, permits, and approvals from the relevant authorities.
After registering, the system will officially recognise your company, allowing you to do business, open bank accounts, and hire staff.
Benefits of Dubai Company Registration
The benefits of registering a company in Dubai or the UAE are as follows:
1. Strategic Location
Dubai’s strategic positioning offers unparalleled connectivity to key markets across Asia, Africa, and Europe, serving as a vital hub that fuels vibrant trade and commerce opportunities.
2. Tax Advantages
The UAE offers a highly competitive tax regime. This translates into significant savings for businesses and individuals.
3. 100% Foreign Ownership
In Dubai, foreigners can own their companies fully for most business activities, giving entrepreneurs total control over their businesses.
4. Ease of Doing Business
The UAE is one of the best countries for business, making starting and running a company easy.
5. Diverse Talent Pool
Dubai attracts a diverse and skilled workforce from around the globe, providing access to a wide range of expertise.
Choose a Jurisdiction to Register Your Company
Dubai offers three primary options for business registration: mainland, free zone, and offshore. Each option possesses unique characteristics and suits various business models and objectives.
Companies can operate in any industry in the local market except those reserved for government entities. Under DED rules, businesses need approval for regulation. Foreign investors can own 100% of their business in the UAE mainland.
Companies operate in areas with tax exemptions, no customs duties, and total foreign ownership rights. These are ideal for businesses focused on international trade and activities. You get 100% ownership in the free zone, and you don’t need local sponsorship for the same.
Companies in the UAE cannot do business within the country. However, they provide advantages like tax breaks, privacy, and asset protection. They are suitable for companies with international operations. You get 100% ownership in the offshore company registration. Many entrepreneurs choose this offshore location to set up their businesses.
Our experts can assist you in determining the best strategy for your business. This may include strategies such as focusing on the local market or exploring opportunities to maximise tax benefits.
How to Register a Company in Dubai, UAE
Dubai company registration can be complex, but fear not! Our team of experts simplifies it for you. We cover everything from registering with your company to getting the necessary licenses and office space. Our goal is to make the registration process as smooth as possible.
To register a company in Dubai, follow these steps:
1. Choose your business activities.
Choose the activities your company will undertake from a list provided by the authorities. This will determine your license type and fees.
2. Select a Name and Structure for Your Company
The company name must be unique and adhere to UAE naming regulations. Determine whether a mainland, free zone or offshore company structure aligns with your business needs.
3. Get Approvals and Permits
You must get initial approvals and permits from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or relevant authorities, providing the required documents and information.
Depending on your business activities, you may need to obtain additional approvals. For example, specific industries may require approvals from specialised government departments.
4. Rent a Commercial Space
No matter what type of business you have, you need a rental lease in Dubai. In Arabic, they call this lease Ejari. You must obtain your business license.
5. Get a Business License
Upon approval, receive your company license and complete the Dubai business registration process.
6. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account to manage your company’s finances. You can open a corporate bank account with a local or international bank in Dubai.
7. Visa Processing
To hire foreign workers, you must obtain their visas and permits from the appropriate government agencies.
Once you receive your formal/legal documents, you can proceed with other aspects of your business, such as hiring a team. We also assist you in selecting the appropriate fit.
Contact Shuraa to avail these packages now!
Online Company Registration in Dubai, UAE
Thanks to the UAE government’s streamlined process, registering a company online in Dubai is now easier. The Department of Economic Development (DED) offers this service to mainland companies and some free zones in Dubai.
This means you can register your company from anywhere in the world, any time of day or night. The online system provides real-time tracking of your application status. Entrepreneurs who are not in Dubai or have limited mobility can easily access registration services and information. This is beneficial for them.
You can register for most business activities online in Dubai. Some companies must maintain a physical presence in Dubai or engage in regulated activities. However, there are only a few cases where this requirement does not apply.
Get initial consultation and assistance at Shuraa. We’ll help you gather and prepare all the required documents for your business registration in the UAE. We’ll also submit your application on your behalf and track its status.
Documents Required for Business Registration in Dubai, UAE
- Application form
- Passport copies of all shareholders and directors
- 2 Photographs (white background)
- Share capital information
- Other documents specific to your chosen structure and activities
Besides the usual documents, you may need more depending on your business type when registering.
Cost of Company Registration in Dubai
The cost of company registration in Dubai varies based on the business setup location. Dubai Mainland license costs typically start from AED 12,999*, while free zone companies can be registered starting from AED 14,900*, and offshore setups begin at AED 18,000*. However, the total cost depends on various factors such as business activity, number of visas, office space, and other requirements specific to the business type and jurisdiction.
Here’s a breakdown of the main factors influencing the cost:
- Different license types have varying fees.
- Specific activities within each license type might have additional fees.
- The number of visas required for your employees and sponsors.
- Choosing a physical office or a virtual office affects the overall cost.
- Additional services like PRO services, accounting support, and marketing assistance.
Get expert consultation today at Shuraa. We provide a clear overview, allowing you to plan your budget effectively and make informed decisions.
Different Types of Business Licenses in the UAE
Setting up a company in Dubai and the UAE requires a business license to conduct your activities and ensure legal peace of mind. It’s important to renew your company license before expiration to avoid fines and penalties. Here are the primary types of business licenses in the UAE:
1. Trade License
A trade license, also known as a business license, is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED). It authorises a company to conduct specific commercial activities within the UAE.
2. Industrial License
An industrial license is granted for industrial and commercial activities, such as manufacturing or refining petrochemicals. This license is essential for businesses involved in production and industrial processes.
3. Professional License
A professional license is issued to individuals or corporations that offer services based on intellectual or professional skills. If the business is owned by more than one person, it is called a civil company.
4. Tourism License
A tourism license permits businesses to operate in the tourism industry, including travel agencies, tour operators, and hotel management. This license is essential for companies offering services such as organising tours, providing transportation, and managing tourist accommodations.
Contact Shuraa to avail these packages now!
Cost of Different Types of Company License
The costs of different types of licenses in the UAE are as follows:
| Type of Company to License in Dubai | Cost starts from |
| Sole Establishment Registration | AED 8000*/- |
| Civil Partnership Registration | AED 10,000*/- |
| LLC Company Registration | AED 12,000*/- |
| Branch Office in Dubai | as per Requirement |
Type of Legal Structures for Dubai Company Registration
Below are the four types of legal structures available for company registration in Dubai:
- Sole Establishment: A business owned and operated by a single individual with complete control and responsibility.
- Limited Liability Companies (LLCs): A company structure where owners have limited liability for business debts and obligations.
- Civil Company: A partnership of professionals providing services under a joint name, often used by lawyers, doctors, or consultants.
- Branches and Representative Offices: Extensions of an existing foreign company, allowing it to operate in Dubai without forming a new legal entity.
Documents Needed for Individual and Corporate Shareholders
Below are the important documents needed for individual and corporate shareholders:
| Individual Shareholder | Corporate Shareholder |
Passport Copy (Valid for at least 6 months) | Company Trade License / Certificate of Incorporation |
Visa Page Copy (if applicable) | Memorandum of Association |
Emirates ID (if applicable) | Board of Resolution for Company Setup and Appointment of Authorized Signatory |
Passport-sized Photos | UBO List |
Personal Information Sheet or Application Form | Incumbency Certificate |
3 Name Choices | 3 Name Choices |
| Passport copy of company manager | |
| – | Visa copy of company manager |
| Emirates ID of company manager |
UAE Company Registration Packages
Mainland
Start your Dubai Mainland company for as low as AED 12,999*.
- 100% business ownership
- Investor Visa Options Available
- All-inclusive licenses
- Corporate Banking Assistance
- Free VAT Consultation
- License approval in 24 hours
Free Zone
- IFZA
- RAKEZ
- Visa Assistance
- 100% Ownership
- Corporate Banking Assistance
- Free VAT Consultation
- Dedicated Account Manager
Offshore
Dubai Offshore starting from just AED 18,000*
- UAE Offshore Company Formation
- Flexible Banking Assistance
- Registered Agent Services
- 100% Ownership
- Remote Licensing
Contact Shuraa to avail these packages now!
Why Choose Shuraa Business Setup?
At Shuraa Business Setup, we understand the complexities of establishing a business in Dubai and the UAE. Our team of experienced professionals provides comprehensive support throughout the entire process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. We offer a wide range of services to cater to your specific needs, including:
1. Help With Registering Your Company
We guide you through the entire Dubai company registration process, from initial approval to obtaining your business license.
2. Documentation Support
We assist with preparing and submitting all required documents, ensuring compliance with UAE regulations.
3. Translation Services
4. Business Licensing
Guidance on choosing the appropriate business license and managing licensing requirements.
5. Rented Office Space
6. PRO Services
We offer PRO services to handle your ongoing government and legal requirements.
Shuraa provides extra services like accounting and legal advice to help with your business needs.
Mainland & Free Zone Company Registration Experts
Meet the experts of Shuraa. They’re superheroes eager to help you set up your business in the UAE.
FAQs
Typically, you'll need identification, proof of address, a business plan, and a copy of the lease agreement.
The process usually takes between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the type of company and the efficiency of the chosen authority.
Costs vary by business type and jurisdiction but generally include registration fees, licensing fees, and legal charges.
For mainland companies, yes, you often need a local sponsor depending on your business activity. Freezone and offshore companies do not require a local sponsor.
Most mainland business activities in free zones and offshore jurisdictions allow 100% foreign ownership. However, some of the business activities in Dubai mainland may require local sponsorship.
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