Learn the step-by-step process of registering a company in Dubai. Get detailed insights and expert tips to make your business setup smooth and hassle-free.

1. Choose the Type of Business and Jurisdiction

Mainland: Allows you to do business in the local market and outside UAE without restrictions.

Free Zone: Offers tax benefits and 100% foreign ownership but limits doing business within the UAE market.

Offshore: Suitable for businesses looking to operate internationally with tax benefits but restricted from doing business in the UAE market.

2. Select a Business Activity Determine Your Business Activities:

Choose from the list of permitted activities based on your business model. The Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai provides this list.

3 . Choose a Legal Structure

Legal Form: Decide the legal form of your business (e.g., LLC, sole proprietorship, branch office).

4. Reserve a Trade Name

Trade Name Reservation: Submit a list of proposed trade names to the DED for approval. Ensure the name complies with the UAE’s naming conventions.

Registration Fee: Pay the applicable fee for name reservation.

5. Initial Approval

Submit Application: Apply for initial approval from the DED. This step includes getting approvals from other relevant authorities depending on the business activity.

Required Documents: Passport copies of owners, NOC from current sponsor (if applicable), and initial approval form.

6. Draft Memorandum of Association (MOA)

These documents must be notarized. Legal Translation: If the documents are in a language other than Arabic, they must be legally translated. 7. Choose a Business Location Lease Agreement: Secure a physical office space and sign a tenancy contract. Ejari Registration: Register the lease agreement with Ejari for mainland businesses. 8. Finalize Licensing Requirements Submit Required Documents: Submit the MOA, tenancy contract, and other required documents to the DED. Pay Fees: Pay the applicable licensing and registration fees. 9. Obtain Additional Approvals (if required) Special Approvals: Some business activities require additional approvals from specific government departments (e.g., health, education, banking sectors). 10. Receive the Business License Trade License Issuance: Once all the documents are approved and fees paid, the DED will issue the trade license. Post-License Procedures: Complete any additional steps such as registering with the Chamber of Commerce, opening a corporate bank account, and applying for necessary visas for employees. Key Points to Remember Local Sponsorship: For certain business types, a local Emirati sponsor (holding 51% ownership) is required. Free Zones Benefits: 100% ownership, no import/export duties, and full repatriation of profits are some benefits of free zones. Professional Assistance: Engaging with a business setup consultant can help streamline the process and ensure compliance with local regulations.