Registration Process

Setup Your Company in Dubai Today

With over 50 free zones in the UAE, how do you know which one is best for you? Setting up in the right Dubai free zones will position your business for success.

However, navigating the intricacies of free zone company formation can be complex and overwhelming without proper guidance. Doing it through a company formation specialised company allows you to leverage the knowledge and experience of professionals who specialize in this domain. Moreover, it enables you to start your operations in Dubai’s thriving business environment with confidence.

What are the benefits of registering a company in the UAE?

Strategic Location

The UAE is strategically located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it an ideal hub for international business. Its central location provides easy access to emerging markets in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.

Business-Friendly Environment

The UAE has established a business-friendly environment with favourable regulations and policies for business owners. The government encourages foreign investment, offers tax incentives, and provides various types of support to businesses, including streamlined procedures for setting up and operating a company.

Tax Benefits

One of the major advantages of establishing a company in the UAE is the absence of corporate and personal income taxes in most of the Emirates. This tax-free environment can significantly enhance business profitability.

Infrastructure and Connectivity

Take advantage of Dubai’s world-class infrastructure, including modern airports, seaports, roads, and telecommunications networks. This infrastructure facilitates efficient connectivity, both within the country and the rest of the world.

Skilled Workforce

Dubai has a diverse and highly skilled workforce that includes both local and international talent. The availability of skilled professionals across various sectors can benefit businesses seeking to tap into this talent pool.

Growing Market

The local market is substantial, with the city and country serving as a gateway to the wider Middle East region. With a high standard of living, a growing population, and strong purchasing power, businesses can access a thriving consumer market.

Lifestyle and Quality of Life

You’ll have access to a high quality of life, with modern infrastructure, world-class healthcare, excellent educational institutions, and a vibrant cultural scene. UAE and Dubai attract professionals from around the world who appreciate the cosmopolitan lifestyle and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Robust Economy

The UAE has a highly developed and diversified economy. It is one of the wealthiest countries in the Middle East and offers a competitive business landscape with strong infrastructure, advanced transportation networks, and a host of modern facilities.

Safety and Security

The UAE is known for its political stability and low crime rates, providing a safe and secure environment for businesses and their employees. From cybersecurity to personal security, all plethora of services are available to enhance your peace of mind.

Free Zones

There are numerous free zones that provide additional benefits for businesses. Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership, exemption from import and export duties, tax exemptions, and simplified customs procedures. These zones are sector-specific, catering to all industries

How We Work

Free consultation

Getting you the best advise

We’ll arrange a free consultation to discuss your available options based on your business type, commercial goals and available budget.

Choose your company type

Create your identity

There are several company formation options in the UAE and it’s important to choose the right one for your business. Our team can guide you through this stage to ensure you identify the one that benefits you the most.

Admin management

Doing the admin for you

This is where you choose the free zone you would like to operate in. Some are industry specific and others cater for multiple sectors, and there are advantages to both opinions. We’ll explain each option in depth and can help you make an informed decision that works for you.

Open a corporate bank account

Bank

You will need a corporate bank account to operate in Dubai or the UAE. Our corporate bank account service helps you find the right account based on the needs of your business.

Process your visa

Being your support

Firstly, we guide you through the immigration formalities in the UAE. Secondly, we will streamline the process to make it as efficient as possible. Moreover, the process covers residency and work permits. This is an aspect that we can also advise on for your family and staff if needed.

Ongoing Supoprt

Being your support

If you need additional help with regulatory requirements, such as annual licence renewals, submission of financial statements and maintaining proper accounting records, we also offer ongoing services to support your business.

Frequently asked questions

To set up a business in the UAE, you will generally need to follow these steps:

a. Choose the type of business entity: Options include mainland company, free zone company, or offshore company. Each has different requirements and benefits.

b. Select a business name: Ensure it complies with the naming guidelines and is available for registration.

c. Find a local sponsor or partner: Depending on the business type, you may need a UAE national as a sponsor or partner.

d. Secure the necessary licenses: Obtain the required licenses and permits from the relevant government authorities.

e. Register the business: Complete the registration process with the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority.

f. Lease an office space: Provide proof of a physical address where your business will operate.

g. Open a corporate bank account: Deposit the required share capital and open a bank account in the UAE.

Yes, foreigners can own businesses in the UAE. However, the ownership structure and restrictions depend on the location of the business:

a. Mainland Company: In mainland UAE, a local sponsor or partner, who must be a UAE national, is required. The local partner typically holds a 51% share, while the foreign investor holds the remaining 49%.

b. Free Zone Company: Free zones allow 100% foreign ownership, with no requirement for a local sponsor or partner. However, these companies are limited to operating within the free zone or outside the UAE.

c. Offshore Company: Offshore companies are typically used for international operations and do not allow local UAE business activities. They also offer 100% foreign ownership.

The costs of setting up a business in the UAE vary depending on the business type, location, and specific requirements. Here are some common expenses to consider:

a. License fees: These vary based on the type of license and business activity.

b. Registration fees: These include company registration fees with the relevant authority.

c. Office space: The cost of leasing office space depends on the location, size, and type of premises.

d. Visa fees: If you plan to have employees, you will need to factor in the costs of employee visas.

e. Sponsorship fees: If setting up a mainland company, you may need to pay an annual sponsorship fee to your local sponsor or partner.

Free zones in the UAE offer several benefits for businesses, including:

a. 100% foreign ownership: Free zones allow full ownership by foreign investors without the need for a local sponsor or partner.

b. Tax advantages: Free zones typically provide tax exemptions on corporate and personal income taxes for a specific period.

c. Customs privileges: Companies in free zones enjoy customs duty exemptions for importing and exporting goods.

d. Simplified procedures: The setup process in free zones is streamlined, with fewer bureaucratic hurdles and faster registration times.

e. Infrastructure and facilities: Free zones provide state-of-the-art infrastructure, office spaces, warehouses, and logistics facilities.

f. Repatriation of profits: Companies can repatriate 100% of their capital and profits outside the free zone without restrictions.

The time required to set up a business in the UAE varies depending on the type of business and the specific requirements. Generally, the process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.