1. News

  2. How to set up a company in Dubai?

Guide

How to set up a company in Dubai?

Copy link

Dubai company

How to set up a company in Dubai? Many entrepreneurs from around the world who recognise the economic potential of this developing region are looking for answers to this question. Setting up a company in the United Arab Emirates, and especially in Dubai, is a step towards doing business in one of the most attractive commercial centres in the world. The process may seem complex, but proper preparation and knowledge of the procedures make it much easier. What steps should you take to set up a company in Dubai?

Is it worth setting up a company in Dubai?

Is it worth setting up a company in Dubai? Yes, of course! Dubai has been attracting investors from all over the world for years thanks to its stable legal environment, favourable tax system and openness to international business. Entrepreneurship in Dubai is booming, as is tourism, thanks to the many extraordinary attractions in Dubai. The city is considered one of the most business-friendly places in the Middle East.

Company in Dubai – what are the options? There are three main forms of business activity available in the United Arab Emirates. The first is an OFFSHORE company – a virtual structure that is not treated as a resident and allows 100% ownership by a foreign owner. The second option is Free Zone companies, also wholly owned by the entrepreneur. An additional advantage is the possibility of obtaining a three-year residence visa for the UAE, provided that the owner does not leave the country for more than six months. The third form of business is a limited liability company in Dubai (Mainland), which requires cooperation with a local partner.

How to set up a company in Dubai step by step?

Is it complicated to set up a company in Dubai? No, it is not – as long as you know the basic stages of registration and meet the formal requirements applicable in the United Arab Emirates. Companies in Dubai are established by both local residents and foreign investors, which makes the process well organised and relatively transparent. A company in Dubai can operate in one of several available zones: Free Zone, Mainland or Offshore – each of which involves different procedures.

What are the steps in the process of purchasing a company in Dubai? Choosing a form of business, registering a trade name, gathering the required documents, obtaining the appropriate licences, and setting up a company bank account are just some of the steps you will need to take. Detailed information and a thorough description of the procedure can be found later in this article.

Requirements for setting up a company in Dubai

What are the requirements for setting up a company in Dubai? The process requires several key formalities to be completed, which are regulated by local regulations. The regulations for setting up a company in Dubai vary depending on the type of business and location – e.g. whether the company is established in a free zone or on the local market (Mainland). It is necessary to register with the relevant department, such as the Department of Economic Development (DED). The next step is to register a trade name and obtain the appropriate trade licence for the type of business.

Can foreigners set up a company in Dubai? Yes, they can without any problems. The United Arab Emirates offers a friendly environment for foreign investors, granting them full rights to own companies in many zones.

Company development in Dubai
Photo: Two Continents

What documents are needed to set up a company in Dubai?

What documents are needed to set up a company in Dubai? Registering a company in Dubai requires the preparation and submission of a set of necessary documents, which are the basis for starting legal operations. You need to prepare a partnership agreement, articles of association and proof of investment. You also need to submit copies of the passports of all shareholders and the relevant visa applications. Depending on the form of business activity chosen, address confirmation, compliance documents and, in some industries, special sectoral licences may also be required.

Procedure for purchasing a company in Dubai

The procedure for purchasing a company in Dubai consists of several key steps that should be followed in accordance with applicable regulations. The entire business setup process in Dubai begins with choosing a legal form and obtaining the appropriate business licence in Dubai, depending on the type of business activity. Next, you must register the company's trade name and register it in the selected economic zone.

It is also necessary to provide the official address of the company's registered office and open a bank account for the company's operational needs. An important step is to prepare and consult the articles of association with an accounting firm to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Costs of setting up a company in Dubai

What are the costs of setting up a company in Dubai? This is one of the most frequently asked questions by entrepreneurs planning to start a business in the United Arab Emirates. The costs of setting up a company in Dubai vary and depend on many factors, such as the type of company, location, type of business activity and the scope of consulting services. On average, you should expect to spend between AED 10,000 and even AED 40,000 (EUR 2500 - EUR 10 000).

Questions and answers (FAQ)

  • Is it worth setting up a company in Dubai?

Yes, of course! Dubai has been attracting investors from all over the world for years thanks to its stable legal environment, favourable tax system and openness to international business.

  • What documents are required to set up a company in Dubai?

You need to prepare a partnership agreement, articles of association and proof of investment. You also need to submit copies of all shareholders' passports and the relevant visa applications.

  • What are the costs of setting up a company in Dubai?

The costs of setting up a company in Dubai vary and depend on many factors. On average, you should expect to spend between AED 10,000 and even AED 40,000 (EUR 2500 - EUR 10 000).