Company Registration in Dubai, UAE - Process & Cost Involved

Registration of a company in Dubai is the incorporation of an authorized legal entity to hold the right to operate a business in the city. The registration process generally depends on obtaining necessary licenses and permissions from the main regulating authorities, the Department of Economic Development (DED), in the case of the mainland, or free zone authorities if in free zones.

After being registered, it is a duly recognized company, therefore allowed to open corporate bank accounts, hire staff, and undertake business activities under the specified rules and regulations according to UAE law. 

The main concern is how you make it legally sound and compliant with the local law. This is where a corporate advisor plays an important role, particularly in a place like Dubai, where different business activities need different types of licenses and permits. 

The corporate consultants can make the whole process smooth, from choosing an appropriate legal entity to maintaining paperwork and fulfilling tax requirements, for completion with minimal delays and total compliance. 

What is Company Registration in Dubai and the UAE?

Company registration in Dubai and the UAE is the process of formally establishing a legal entity that allows you to operate commercially within the region. This involves obtaining the necessary business licenses, permits, and approvals from relevant authorities like the Department of Economic Development (DED) or free zone authorities, depending on where your business is located. Once your company is registered, it will be officially recognized, granting you the ability to open business bank accounts, hire employees, and engage in various commercial activities.

There are several key steps in the registration process, including determining your business activity, selecting an appropriate legal structure (such as a Limited Liability Company or a Free Zone entity), obtaining initial approvals, drafting necessary legal documents, and securing office space. Registration fees and requirements vary based on factors like your business type and location within Dubai or the wider UAE

Why Should You Register a Company in Dubai?

1. Geostrategic Location

Located at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe, Dubai enjoys unparalleled access to a diverse array of global markets. This places it in an especially advantageous position from which to pursue international trade.

2. Tax Benefits

Aside from boasting among the most business-friendly environments in the world, Dubai also has a host of very competitive tax policies. The zero corporate tax in many cases, coupled with parallel zero income tax, offers a serious boost in terms of financial benefits for both the company and individual investors.

3. Full Foreign Ownership

For many business types, Dubai now allows complete foreign ownership, giving entrepreneurs full control over their ventures, particularly within the free zones.

4. Ease of Doing Business

Dubai is known for its friendly business environment, ranking high on many lists for ease of doing business, which attracts both startups and well-established enterprises alike.

5. Access to a Diverse Talent Pool

Due to Dubai's position as an international business center, companies are able to employ some of the best working professionals from every part of the world.

Business Jurisdictions in Dubai 

Dubai has mainly three kinds of company registration, each serving different purposes for entrepreneurs and investors. These include mainland, free zone, and offshore companies.

1. Mainland Company

A Dubai mainland company registration is ideal for businesses that are eyeing access to the market across the UAE. A mainland company is registered within the local legal framework of the UAE, therefore it can easily trade across the Emirates and, where permitted, participate in government contracts. 

2. Free Zone Company

One of the main reasons for registering a free zone company in Dubai is for great tax advantages. Custom duties and Value Added Tax (VAT) are exempted to some degree, and even the ownership can be 100% foreign. In fact, free zones are established for specific industries for which they have other advantages, like simplifying the procedures and having no or minimum restrictions on the repatriation of capital and profits.

3. Offshore Company

For businesses focused on international trade and asset protection offshore company registration in Dubai offers certain advantages. Offshore companies operate outside the UAE economy and are accorded certain privileges, including tax exemptions, privacy in financial transactions, and asset protection.

Different Types of Business Licenses in Dubai

1. Commercial (or Trade) License: For businesses conducting an activity in purchasing and selling goods in the UAE or anywhere outside of the country. This license covers the general trade, import, export, and wholesale distribution activities.
2. Industrial License: This license is taken by those companies that are undertaking manufacturing, production, or processing. Examples of such industries that have been granted this license are petrochemical and food processing.

3. Professional License: It targets service-based companies whereby businesses fall under consultancy firms, medical practitioners, and artisans, among others. 

4. Tourism License: This license is needed for those companies working in the tourism sector. It is basically necessary for travel agencies, tour operators, and hotel businesses. 

These licenses ensure compliance with UAE law, with each license meeting the particular needs and business activities. 

Certain businesses might even need additional permits, depending on their need to comply with the local standards and regulations, like restaurants needing a food and beverage license or a healthcare license for a medical establishment.

How to Register a Company in Dubai?

1. Define Your Business Activities:

You have to identify your business activities from the list approved by the DED or the concerned free zone authorities. This helps in identifying the type of licensing that shall be required for your business and, consequently, the prerequisite fees.

2. Choose a Company Name and Structure:

Choose a unique name for the business, considering UAE naming conventions and avoiding the use of prohibited terms. For the structure choose from the options of LLC., proprietorship, and branch of foreign company, depending on the operational requirements of your business and your goals.

3. Obtain Approvals and Licenses Required: 

Apply for initial approvals with DED or the relevant free zone authority. Certain activities, such as healthcare and financial services, need further clearance from specialized government departments.

4. Rent Office Space:

Depending on your company type, you will need a commercial space in Dubai that has a valid lease agreement, this is what is normally referred to as Ejari. Free zones may allow flexible options, including shared offices.

5. Apply for Your Business License: 

Once all approvals are in place, apply for your business license, which seals your company's registration.

6. Open a Corporate Bank Account:

It is also necessary for the handling of business funds and transactions, by opening a corporate bank account with either of the local or international banks in Dubai. 

7. Application of Employee and Investor Visa:

Any foreign workers or investors need to get their respective visas from the immigration authorities. The license type your company receives will determine the number of possible visas sponsored by your company.

Documents Required for Business Registration in Dubai

Documentation needed may vary in number as per the type of business one intends to start and also based on the location of the business. The general overview of the main documents to be presented is as follows:

1. Application Form: The form provided for business registration is available online or at the relevant authority.
2. Passport Copies: Passport copies of all shareholders and directors are to be provided. The copies should have a minimum six months validity and may be attested in case applicants are foreign nationals.
3. Photographs: Recent passport-size white background photographs for identification purposes.
4. Share Capital Details: Give the business entity's information concerning share capital, which may be provided in the MOA for LLCs.
5. Other Documents: Depending on the type of business, you are obligated to submit some documents such as a business plan, NOCs from sponsors, bank reference letters, and address proof of shareholders.

Cost of Company Registration in Dubai, UAE

For Mainland companies, the cost starts from about 15,000 to AED 35,000. This will cover the basic licensing and processing; this cost might increase based on office requirements, the number of visas needed, and added services such as PRO support or accounting. 

The setup cost of a Free Zone company generally starts from AED 14,900. In most cases, they will be restricted from trading directly on the UAE mainland without a local distributor which will have additional charges.

The fee for offshore registration begins from AED 18,000, this does not include the costs for operations within the UAE.

Note:  The price is an estimate and will vary in reality. For an accurate cost breakdown, get in touch with our consultants.

Unlock the Best  Solutions for Company Registration in Dubai, UAE

Maximize value for your Company Registration in Dubai with guidance, from experienced professionals, tailored to your needs. Develop strategic partnerships with leading free zones, to access bespoke solutions. Assistance can extend beyond company registration to the establishment of corporate bank accounts and the provision of contacts with knowledgeable professionals to ensure a smooth transition to the UAE. 

Book a free consultation with free zone company registration specialists on info@radiantbiz.com or +97155 234 7124 to establish your business more efficiently with added support and value.

FAQ : Company Registration in Dubai

1. How much is the cost of Dubai Company registration?

The cost of registering a company in Dubai may vary based on the type of license, business activities, and location. The cost starts from, additional costs include legal fees, registration fees, visas, and office space.

2. How can I register my company in Dubai?

Registration of a company in Dubai process starts with the selection of the type of business activity and the legal form, pre-reservation of the trade name, applying for initial approval, and document submission for obtaining the license of business.

3. How long does company registration take in Dubai?

The time taken to get a company registered in Dubai is approximately a week or three on average, time varies based on factors like completeness of documentation, type of business, and additional approvals that might be required. 

Free zone registrations may take less compared to that required for the mainland setup, which would be slightly longer because extra government processing may be involved​.

4. Can an Indian register a company in Dubai?

Yes, Indian citizens can register companies in Dubai. 

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