How to Register Your Company in Dubai
Registering your company is the first step to starting a business in Dubai.
While the exact process may vary across UAE jurisdictions, the step-by-step guide below highlights the essential stages to get your business officially up and running.
Your business venture starts with company registration in Dubai
Free zone and mainland jurisdictions have their own requirements and processes for company registration in the UAE. The registration process can also be impacted by the nature of a business and its activities.
For example, certain industries, such as F&B and banking, may require additional permits.
The guide below gives you a clear roadmap of the general company registration process in Dubai and the UAE, whether you want to set up in a free zone or in the mainland.
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Your Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Company in Dubai and the UAE
Your business activity greatly influences the licensing requirements for your business, including other factors such as your corporate structure, location and office requirements.
The next step is to choose a jurisdiction that can support your business activity. With over 60 free zone and mainland jurisdictions, it can be challenging to select the best option for your business.
Based on your business activity and jurisdiction, you can then decide on the legal form of your company. This can be a limited liability company (LLC), sole proprietorship or civil company.
Pick a unique name that adheres to the UAE's naming guidelines. Avoid restricted terms while ensuring your trade name reflects your business identity.
Compile the necessary documents, such as passport and residence visa copies, an application form, and a business plan, and submit them to the relevant authorities for processing.
Obtain preliminary approval from the authorities, and if needed, apply for specific permits aligned with your business activity.
All UAE businesses must have a physical address. However, certain free zones do not require you to lease a physical office.
Complete the payment for your company setup fees, including licensing and registration fees. If your chosen jurisdiction requires an office space, then you also need to settle the payment for the office lease.
Once your application is approved, you will receive your trade license, which allows you to legally conduct business in the UAE and internationally.
After obtaining your trade license, you can now apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID to legally live and work in the UAE.
Since you now have your trade license, visa and Emirates ID, you can open a business bank account to manage your company's finances, including daily transactions and salary transfers.
New UAE businesses are required to register for corporate tax with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) within 90 days of incorporation.
New business owners must submit their Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) declaration. This is required by the UAE Government to promote transparency and prevent fraud.
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