Company Setup — Dubai (UAE)
Explore business setup considerations in Dubai, including the proposed activity, location and registration process.
Freezone Setup
Explore establishing your business in a UAE Freezone. Ownership structures, tax treatment and registration requirements vary by freezone and activity.
Key considerations
- Ownership and capital requirements vary by freezone
- Business activity must align with freezone licence categories
- Specific requirements depend on the chosen freezone
Process
- 1Select the appropriate freezone based on business activity
- 2Choose company structure (FZE, FZC, branch)
- 3Reserve trade name and apply for initial approval
- 4Submit incorporation documents
- 5Obtain trade licence
- 6Apply for visa and establishment card
- 7Open corporate bank account
Documents to discuss
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
- Business plan or activity description
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if employed in UAE
- Board resolution (for corporate shareholders)
- Bank reference letter
Timeline
Varies by freezone and activity
*Timelines may vary based on freezone/authority
Mainland Company Formation
Discuss setting up a mainland company in Dubai, including the proposed activity, legal structure and registration process.
Key considerations
- Foreign ownership rules vary by activity and structure
- Local service agent required for certain activities
- Physical office space required
- Business activity must be approved by DED
Process
- 1Select business activity and legal structure
- 2Apply for initial approval from Department of Economic Development (DED)
- 3Draft Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- 4Secure office premises and tenancy contract
- 5Obtain trade licence from DED
- 6Register with relevant authorities (Chamber of Commerce, etc.)
- 7Apply for residency visas
Documents to discuss
- Passport copies of all partners/shareholders
- Tenancy contract (Ejari registered)
- Memorandum of Association
- Initial approval certificate
- NOC from current sponsor (if applicable)
- Bank reference letters
- Business plan
Timeline
Varies by structure and approvals required
*Timelines may vary based on freezone/authority
Investor Residency Pathways
Discuss long-term UAE residency options that may be available through investment in property, business or other qualifying activities. Eligibility criteria and thresholds are set by UAE authorities and may change.
Key considerations
- Investment thresholds and eligibility criteria are set by UAE authorities
- Business owners with investment capital in UAE
- Entrepreneurs with approved startup projects
- Requirements vary by visa category and may change
Process
- 1Discuss eligibility for investor residency streams
- 2Prepare investment or business documentation
- 3Submit application to relevant authority (ICP/GDRFA)
- 4Biometrics and medical examination
- 5Residency visa issuance
- 6Emirates ID application
Documents to discuss
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Investment evidence (property title deed, share certificates)
- Bank statements showing investment funds
- Trade licence (for business investors)
- Health insurance
- Passport-size photographs
- Medical fitness certificate
Timeline
Varies by visa category and authority processing
*Timelines may vary based on freezone/authority