Business Setup

Setting up a business in the UAE can be a streamlined and efficient process, thanks to the various services and free zones designed to facilitate business establishment. Here are some key steps and options to consider: 

1. Choose Your Business Activity 

Determine the type of business activity you want to undertake. The UAE offers a wide range of options, from trading and manufacturing to services and consultancy. 

2. Select a Jurisdiction 

The UAE is divided into three main jurisdictions for business setup: 

• Mainland: Allows you to do business across the UAE without restrictions and with the new regime of 100% ownership, it is one of the most viable option for people looking to do business inside UAE. 

• Free Zones: Offers benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions for qualified free zones, and simplified setup processes ideal for small and midsize companies looking to do international trade. 

• Offshore: Suitable for international business activities without a physical presence in the UAE and primarily used for creating a holding structure for international assets. 

3. Choose a Business Structure 

Select a legal structure that suits your business needs, such as: 

• Sole Proprietorship 

• Limited Liability Company (LLC) 

• Branch Office 

• Industrial 

• Commercial 

• Free Zone Company/Establishment (FZCo/E) 

• Offshore Company 

4. Register Your Trade Name 

Choose and register a unique trade name for your business that complies with the UAE’s naming conventions. 

5. Obtain Initial Approvals 

Secure initial approvals from relevant authorities. These may include the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland companies or the respective free zone authority for free zone companies. 

6. Prepare Legal Documents 

Prepare and notarize the required legal documents, such as the Memorandum of Association (MoA), Articles of Association (AoA), and shareholder agreements. 

7. Lease an Office Space 

Secure a physical address for your business. This could be in a free zone, mainland, or even a virtual office depending on your business structure and jurisdiction. 

8. Apply for Licenses 

Submit your application for the necessary business licenses. The type of license required will depend on your business activity and jurisdiction. 

9. Apply for Company Establishment 

Card Register your company in Immigration. 

10. Visa Processing 

Apply for residency visas for yourself and any employees you plan to bring to the UAE. Popular Free Zones Some of the well-known free zones in the UAE include: 

• Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) 

• Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) 

• Dubai Internet City (DIC) 

• Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) 

• Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) 

• Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) 

• And other free zones across UAE Business Setup Services Marhaban Group specializes in helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE. 

We offer services such as: 

• Business advisory and consultancy 

• Company formation and registration 

• PRO services (Public Relations Officer) 

• Visa processing and documentation 

• Office space leasing and virtual offices 

• Bank account opening assistance 

• Liquidation and Cancellation of License Benefits of Setting Up in the UAE 

• 100% foreign ownership in free zones and mainland 

• No personal or income tax 

• Corporate Tax at the lowest prevailing across the globe! 

• Strategic location with access to regional markets 

• State-of-the-art infrastructure and logistics 

• Business-friendly environment and regulations 

Setting up a business in the UAE involves navigating various regulations and procedures, but the advantages make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to expand in the Middle East and beyond.