Business Setup Service in Dubai - UAE

Choose a business activity and a legal form. You need to select a business activity that matches your skills and expertise, and that is permitted by the authorities. You also need to choose a legal form that defines the structure and governance of your company, such as a sole proprietorship, a partnership, or a limited liability company (LLC). The business activity and the legal form will determine the type of license you need to obtain, whether commercial, industrial, professional, tourism, agricultural, or occupational.

You need to choose a unique and meaningful trade name that reflects your business activity. Moreover, it’s essential to ensure that the name complies with the rules and regulations of the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority. You also need to apply for an initial approval from the same authority, which is a certificate that allows you to proceed with your business setup process.

Draft a memorandum of association as well as a local service agent agreement, both essential steps in the business setup process. If you’re establishing a mainland company requiring a local partner, ensure the memorandum of association (MOA) outlines crucial details such as share capital, profit and loss distribution, and the respective rights and responsibilities of each partner. You also need to sign a local service agent (LSA) agreement with a UAE national who will act as your representative for administrative matters. While setting up a free zone company, you may not need these documents. However, it largely depends on the legal form you choose.

Select a business location and get additional approvals. Consequently, you need to find a suitable location for your business that meets your requirements while complying with the zoning and health and safety standards. You also need to obtain additional approvals from other government entities depending on your business activity, such as the Ministry of Health, the Dubai Municipality, or the Roads and Transport Authority.

Submit documents and pay fees. You need to submit all the required documents to the DED or the free zone authority, such as your passport copy, your visa copy, your NOC letter from your sponsor (if applicable), your MOA, your LSA agreement, your trade name reservation certificate, your initial approval certificate, your tenancy contract, and any other relevant documents. You also need to pay the fees for issuing your license and registering your company.

Once your documents are verified and your fees are paid, you will receive your license within a few days or even hours depending on the type of company you set up. Moreover, your license will permit you to conduct your business activity legally in Dubai. You can then start hiring employees, opening bank accounts, applying for visas, and marketing your products or services.