Avyanco Business Setup Consultancy

Level 36, Burj Al Salam Tower, Trade Center First, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE.

Search
Close this search box.

Company Registration
in Dubai, UAE

A business idea may be simple to explain but making it legal will require the help of a company registration consultant like us. Our entire process of company registration in Dubai is tailor-made to suit the unique needs of each business or office setup. UAE being the center point of world commerce offers a host of advantages like low or no taxes, technology advanced community, free trade zones, strict levels of confidentiality, and rapid development making it the best choice for doing business.

Company Registration in Dubai

Why you should register a company in Dubai, UAE?

UAE being the center point of world commerce offers a host of advantages like low or no taxes, technology advanced community, free trade zones, strict levels of confidentiality, and rapid development making it the best choice for doing business.

There is no doubt that Dubai is one of the biggest ever-growing economic hubs of the Middle East. Business owners will get a highly lucrative environment to experience the valuable benefits of 100% foreign ownership, up-scaled business infrastructure, a high-class lifestyle, and greater business opportunities.

However, starting a company in Dubai could be a time-consuming and complex process, especially for beginners, who don’t have proper knowledge and planning of their business activities. The government of Dubai has instilled strict measures to qualify for company registration in Dubai. But with proper guidance and understanding of legal terms and facts, your company gets legal within 24 hours.

How to Register a Company in Dubai

Registering a company in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates allows you to experience the profitable business environment by taking advantage of the great benefits of the United Arab Emirates.

It is a popular choice amongst international investors establishing a company with 100% foreign ownership, ease of doing business, e-governance system, top-class lifestyle, tax savings, up-scaled business infrastructure, and growing business timeliness.

Investors can choose from a variety of corporate registration options in the region. In this guide, we will cover every aspect of Company registration in Dubai so that you can smoothly head into a business acquisition in Dubai.

Key Steps For Company Registration in Dubai

Business registration is Dubai is not difficult. Government authorities provide detailed steps on how to register a company in Dubai, UAE. Here are all the major steps for new company registration in Dubai and the UAE are listed below:

Choose your license type

To register a business, the investor must first select the type of license (trade, industrial, and/or professional) for the Dubai mainland.
01

Select your business activity

The investor has to choose a business activity like trading, service, restaurant, etc.
02

Choose your legal structure

After choosing a suitable activity, the investor needs to select the proper legal structure, i.e., sole establishment, Civil partnership, Limited liability Company (LLC).
03

Get your Local agent

Choose a local UAE national either as a local agent or sponsor for the company. Only required for a professional business.
04

Register the trade name of the business

Submit the company registration application and the proposed company name to the Department of Economic Development (DED) for initial approval. Notarize the company’s Memorandum of Association either in notary public or at Department of economic development (E notary). This step is crucial as the name you choose has to be appropriate.
05

Select your office location Physical or Virtual

Choose your office location and get a lease agreement. There are multiple options available like share desk, virtual office, flexi-desk office, shared office, and standard office. The government also provides an instant business license. The investor can take up an office only from the second year onwards and does not need an office space in the first year.
06

Get your company documents

File company documents with the Department for Economic Development (DED) and obtain trade license and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Make the company stamp.
07

Get your visa issuance

Register a company license in the immigration department. Issue a partner or Investor visa for the owner of the company. Register a company license in the Ministry Of Human Resource And Emiratization (MOHRE). Apply for the employee visa under the company.
08

Different Types of Business Licenses

Setting up a company in Dubai and the the UAE requires a business license for conducting your activities legally with peace of mind. However, when your license expires you are always required to renew your company license before its expiration to avoid any fines and penalties.

trade license in dubai and the uae

Trading License

This license enables businesses to import, export, distribute, and store goods as specified in the license in Dubai. Get In Touch

industrial license in dubai uae

Industrial License

An industrial license is required for businesses manufacturing goods or producing other products. Get In Touch

Professional License

Businesses like accounting and consulting need a special license. It's called a professional license. Get In Touch

Tourism License

Businesses like hotels, and tour operators need a tourism license to operate in tourism. Get In Touch

Cost of Company Registration in Dubai

Due to low logistics and operational costs in Dubai, any business registration is not expensive at all. For any foreign/offshore company, no minimum capital is required. However,  the cost of company registration in Dubai is AED 10,000 (USD 2,700).

Dubai company registration cost varies as per your choice of business. Services License Fee, Trading License Fee, and General Trading License Fee are the three major categories for LLC company registration.

For Services License Fee, sole establishment costs AED 15,150, and Civil Company costs AED 18,650. Dubai LLC company registration costs AED 22,150 for Trading License & AED 37,250 for opening a branch of a foreign company.

Cost of Different Types of Company License
Type of Company to License in Dubai Approximate Cost
Sole Establishment Registration AED 12,000*/-
Civil Partnership Registration AED 15,000*/-
LLC Company Registration AED 21,500*/-
Branch Office in Dubai As per Requirement

Learn more about the cost of mainland vs freezone company registration so that you can have a clear picture of how much you need to spend while registering a company in Dubai generally regardless of your business legal structure.

Register your Company Based on Jurisdiction

Once a company is registered with a competent authority, it creates a smooth and seamless path to enter the Dubai or UAE market and grow without encountering operational or legal issues. The right to register a license is entirely dependent on your business plan, business type, target market, financial goals, and initial budget. You can choose among three types of registration.

trade license in dubai and the uae

Mainland Company Registration

DED (Department of Economic Development) registration is necessary for Dubai mainland company registration. A company formed in mainland can engage in any industry, commerce, professional, or tourism. According to the DED procedural rules, companies require authorities’ approval for business regulation. Foreign investors can acquire 100% ownership of their business settled in the UAE Mainland. Learn More

industrial license in dubai uae

Freezone Company Registration

There are 45+ freezones in the UAE and 8000+ companies in freezones. The UAE Freezone is a designated UAE area where expatriates can fully own and operate their business at an affordable registration fee. Dubai Freezone company registration is a potential business investment for expatriates worldwide. Learn More

Offshore Company Registration

Offshore companies in UAE are also considered as “paper” companies. Such entities are a wholly foreign-owned limited liability company. In general, these offshore companies incorporate within the countries that impose little or no tax on their capital gains. The United Arab Emirates is a preferred offshoring destination for various businesses. Learn More

Type of Legal Structures for Dubai Company Registration

Dubai is great for entrepreneurs worldwide. They can pick any legal setup for their business. They'll get easy processes, full ownership, a fast setup, and a strategic location. The bustling emirate is a perfect platform for growth, innovation, and business expansion.

Joint Stock Companies

If you want to split ownership of your business into parts, you can make your business a PJSC (Public Joint Stock Company) or a PrJSC (Private Joint Stock Company) in Dubai.

Partnerships

Business partnerships mean when two or more entities share the profits and losses of a business. In Dubai, there are two main kinds of partnerships: general partnerships and limited partnerships.

Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)

An LLC in Dubai can be set up in the mainland or free zones. This type of company gives you limited liability protection and operational flexibility.

Solo Establishment

In Dubai, you can create a legal company in free zones or on the mainland. When you set up a company alone, you own and run everything.

Branches

Branches in Dubai are like parts of a foreign company. You can start your business as a part of another company, and it needs to follow UAE laws.

Document Requirements For Business Registration In The UAE

Required document checklist for business registration in Dubai and the UAE for different shareholders.

Documents Checklists for Individual Shareholder
Mandatory
Passport Copy (Valid for at least 6 months)
Visa Page Copy (if applicable)
Emirate ID (if applicable)
Passport-sized Photos
Personal Information Sheet or Application Form
3 Name Choices
Required Documents Checklists for Corporate Shareholder
Mandatory
Company Trade License / Certificate of Incorporation
Memorandum of Association
Board of Resolution for Company Setup and Appointment of Authorized Signatory
UBO List
Incumbency Certificate
3 Name Choices
Passport copy of Company Manager
Visa copy of Company Manager
Emirate ID of Company Manager

Note* The list of document requirements is subject to change as per the desired license activity and selected jurisdiction.

Timeline

Find below the timeline for setting up a branch office in Dubai and the UAE.

Application Submission
Submit Your Application & Issuance Of Trade License And Company Formation Documents
Day 1
Immigration Card Issuance
Immigration Card & E-channel Application Issued
Day 5
Change Status
Entry Permit, Change Status, Medical, Emirates ID Issued
Day 8
Visa Issuance
Investor Visa Issued
Day 10

Benefits of Dubai Company Registration

Dubai is a great place for your business. It has a strategic location, friendly rules for companies, and excellent facilities. Whether you want to start or expand your business on the mainland or in a free zone, Dubai has something for every entrepreneur. Following are some prime points of interest for new business registration in Dubai and the UAE includes:

The icon represents the business license selection during the formation of the Dubai company

100% Ownership

Foreign investors in the UAE can fully own their companies in mainland and free zone areas.

The icon represents the business license selection during the formation of the Dubai company

Financial Perks

Companies in Dubai don't pay taxes on their business and personal earnings. They also don't pay fees for importing and exporting goods. This helps them save money and make more profit.

The icon represents the business license selection during the formation of the Dubai company

Repatriation of Profits

Businesses can repatriate 100% of their profits and capital without restrictions. This helps in efficient international fund transfers.

The icon represents the business license selection during the formation of the Dubai company

Easy Company Setup

Dubai has simplified forming, licensing, and registering companies. So, it's faster and simpler now.

The icon represents the business license selection during the formation of the Dubai company

Infrastructure and Facilities

Dubai has great infrastructure and modern facilities. Its friendly atmosphere can help your business grow and be creative.

The icon represents the business license selection during the formation of the Dubai company

Access to Global Markets

Dubai's strategic location helps connect to nearby and faraway markets. This makes it a center for trade and commerce.

UAE Company Registration Packages:
Compare Mainland & Free Zone Options

Build your business’s bright future with our packages. These are curated for business setup in Dubai Mainland. Get easy integration, unique benefits, and a helpful community backing your growth. Trust us to make sure you succeed at every stage!

Sharjah Freezone

AED 5,750*

0 Visa

  • Business Consultation
  • 0 Visa
  • 100% Foriegn Ownership
  • Business License

*T&C Apply

Dubai Freezone

AED 12,500*

0 Visa

  • Business Consultation
  • 0 Visa
  • 100% Foriegn Ownership
  • Business License

*T&C Apply

Rakez Freezone

AED 11,990*

1 Visas

  • Business Consultation
  •  1 Visa
  • 100% Foriegn Ownership
  • Business License

*T&C Apply

Dubai Mainland

AED 20,000*

1 Visas

  • Business Consultation
  • 1 Visa
  • 100% Foriegn Ownership
  • Professional License

*T&C Apply

Cost Calculator For Business Setup In Dubai

Complete A Few Steps To Find Out The Cost Of Business Setup. Be Prepared And Start Your Business Journey In Dubai After Knowing The Cost Required With Our Easy-To-Use Cost Calculator.

Why Avyanco?

Based in Dubai, Avyanco is a leading expert supporting your company registration needs. It can help you unlock a smooth business journey. We have a track record of successful company setups in the UAE. Plus, we offer personalized guidance, from choosing the suitable license to strategizing your business activity. Our seasoned, dedicated team makes the process organized. This way, we ensure you save time and reduce business setup stress. Plus, we’re committed to transparency. So, we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

  • Reliable Guidance
  • Continuous Support
  • Effortless Progress

Still Confused about taking your decision?

Taking a Consultation

  • Strategic Expertise

    Avyanco has substantial experience in setting up businesses in the UAE. So, we can offer tactical know-how to help you with Dubai's legal space. We ensure your company registration in UAE aligns with the latest legal needs and market trends.

  • business setup expert team

    Personalized Approach

    We understand your unique business needs. Accordingly, we provide our business setup services. Our customized approach makes sure you get solutions that exactly match your goals. Eventually, this will help you succeed quickly.

  • Comprehensive Solutions

    Avyanco makes business setup easy for you. It helps with everything, from paperwork to legal issues. So you can be stress-free during the registration process. Plus, you can concentrate on what's most important to you: your main business operations.

Mainland & Free Zone Company Registration Specialists:
Your Guide to Success in Dubai

Our expert team has in-depth knowledge of Dubai’s intricate laws of the mainland and multiple free zones. We make sure that your company setup is swift and accurate. This way, you get a great start in the UAE. Our business insights can save you time and prevent possible problems. We help you through every step of the Dubai company registration process. This way, your business starts smoothly and follows the company establishment rules.

Google Reviews

Join 10,000 Happy Customers

Popular Questions

Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of company registration in Dubai?

Registering a company in Dubai has many perks. Some of them are 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and the ability to repatriate profits. You can also enjoy the perks of having a strategic location for business expansion, smooth processes, and access to modern infrastructure.

Can I register any business activity in Dubai?

Dubai allows many different types of businesses. You’re likely to find what you like, such as trading, services, manufacturing, technology, or more. You can do your business on the mainland or in a free zone for your industry.

Do I need a local partner for company registration in Dubai?

In Dubai’s free zones, you don’t need a local partner for your company. Foreign investors can own the entire business. But, if you want to do certain business activities on the UAE mainland, you’ll need a local partner. They have to own at least 51% of your business.

How long does company registration in Dubai take?

Registering a company in Dubai is easy. It usually takes 1-2 weeks. The time needed can change based on the chosen free zone, business type, document completion, and other factors.

Can I trade outside the free zone if my company is registered there?

Trading within the UAE is not allowed for companies in Dubai’s free zones. But, if they want to do business outside these zones, they must appoint local distributors. On the other hand, all companies on the mainland can operate anywhere in the UAE. They don’t need local distributors.

What does the cost of setting up a business in Dubai or any other city in the UAE consist of?

The UAE lets people set up businesses in the mainland or free zones. The cost of setting up a business in both areas is based on many factors. It includes license fees, office space, government charges, and visas. Your business activities and company size also affect costs. So, make sure you research and plan well to figure out your exact expenses for your business.

If I have a branch of a UAE company, how will it be treated in the UAE?

In corporate tax rules, a UAE company’s branch in the UAE is seen as one ‘taxable entity.’ But, a ‘free zone entity’ includes a branch of a UAE company in a free zone.