FAZAK
The Owner's Choice
We offer comprehensive services that help you make informed decisions and achieve your financial goals.
FAZAK
The Owner's Choice
We offer comprehensive services that help you make informed decisions and achieve your financial goals.
FAZAK
The Owner's Choice
Registering a business in Dubai is the critical step that turns your idea into a legal entity. Business registration in Dubai typically refers to obtaining a trade license and incorporation certificate from the relevant authority so you can operate legally. The process is efficient and investor-friendly: Dubai’s government has streamlined many steps to encourage entrepreneurship. In fact, business registration can now be done online for both mainland and certain free zones, meaning you can start the process from anywhere in the world. That said, there are still important decisions and paperwork involved – which is where our expertise guides you through seamlessly.
The general steps for business registration in Dubai include: 1) Choosing your business activity and legal structure (e.g., LLC, branch, sole proprietorship), 2) Selecting a jurisdiction – Mainland (through DED) or a Free Zone – based on your needs, 3) Reserving a unique trade name that meets UAE naming rules, 4) Getting initial approvals from authorities (for example, special permissions if your activity is regulated), 5) Preparing documents like shareholder passports, the Memorandum of Association, and lease for an office, 6) Paying the required fees and submitting the license application to obtain your trade license. Once these steps are completed, you receive your license and can officially commence business. Our service assists you at every step, ensuring each requirement is met correctly.
Dubai offers two main avenues for registration. Mainland registration (through DED) allows you to do business anywhere in the UAE market without restriction. It’s ideal if you plan to have a shop/office in the city or deal directly with local customers. Free Zone registration, on the other hand, is done with the specific free zone authority and comes with benefits like 100% foreign ownership, zero customs duties, and often simpler procedures. However, free zone companies are generally limited to doing business within their zone or internationally – to trade in the UAE market, they would use local distributors or agents. We help you weigh these options. In either case, we prepare and file all the paperwork. Dubai now even allows instant licenses in some cases – for example, certain simple businesses can get a license issued in minutes with minimal documentation (valid for initial 1 year). We’ll inform you if you qualify for such fast-track options.
Typical documents needed for business registration include shareholder passport copies, visa or entry stamp copies, No-Objection Letters (if a resident under sponsorship), and proof of share capital (if required by the chosen structure). You’ll also sign the MOA and other forms which we will draft for you. The cost of business registration in Dubai varies depending on the license type and jurisdiction. As a guide, a mainland trade license can start around AED 12,000-15,000 in government fees, while free zone packages (including license and a flexi-desk facility) might start around AED 10,000-15,000. Additional costs can include visa fees per person, initial name reservation (~AED 600), and if applicable, local agent fees. We provide a transparent breakdown of all costs upfront. No hidden fees – you’ll know exactly what your budget should be for a successful registration.
FAZAK for reliable, step-by-step support. We make sure your business is registered quickly and correctly, so you can launch your operations with confidence. Let us handle the paperwork, approvals, and formalities while you focus on your business strategy.
In practice, the terms are often used interchangeably. Both refer to the process of legally establishing your business in Dubai. "Business registration" emphasizes obtaining the license and registering with authorities, while "company formation" can encompass the broader setup process including visas, bank accounts, etc. Essentially, once your company is registered and you have your trade license, your company is officially formed and ready to operate.
Key documents include: passport copies of all owners/shareholders and managers, passport-size photos, a brief description of business activity, and in some cases a business plan. If you’re a UAE resident, copies of your residence visa and NOC from your current sponsor (if applicable) are needed. You will also need a Memorandum of Association (MOA) for LLCs (we draft this for you), and a lease agreement for office space (or flexi-desk lease in a free zone). For professional licenses, you might need proof of qualifications. We will give you a tailored list and assist in preparing everything.
It depends on the type of license and whether any special approvals are needed. Many standard business licenses (with straightforward activities) can be issued within 5-7 working days once all documents are submitted. Some free zones boast even 2-3 day setups. If external approvals are needed (for example, from a ministry for medical or educational businesses), it can take a bit longer, maybe 2-4 weeks. Our team’s familiarity with the process helps keep timelines as short as possible by preempting any issues.
Not necessarily to initiate the process – much can be done remotely. Dubai’s government has enabled online business registration for many license types[10]. We can handle applications on your behalf with digital copies of documents. However, certain steps like signing the final incorporation documents or opening a bank account may require your presence or a Power of Attorney to our representative. Also, if you plan to get a visa, you will need to visit the UAE for medical and ID processing. In summary, the company can be set up largely remotely, and we’ll guide you on when you might need to travel.
After registration, you must maintain your business license by renewing it annually and paying the renewal fee. If you have a mainland license, you’ll also need to renew your Ejari (lease) and possibly other permits each year. Free zone companies similarly renew licenses annually and some require an audit report. Additionally, UAE has introduced corporate tax (9%) from 2023 for mainland companies, so annual tax filing may be needed (free zone companies remain tax-exempt if they meet compliance). You’ll also need to file VAT returns if your turnover crosses the threshold and you register for VAT. Don’t worry – we offer post-setup support for compliance, renewals, accounting, and any changes your company might need down the line.
