Establishing a company in the Emirates

The idea of ​​starting a company is an important strategic move for many international entrepreneurs and investors alike. The UAE provides a distinctive investment environment that combines modernity and high technology with laws and regulations that encourage innovation and economic development.

In this article, we will explore the process of setting up a company in the UAE , from choosing the right company type and identifying the ideal location, to registration procedures and obtaining the necessary licenses. We will also shed light on the investment opportunities available in the UAE, and how to benefit from the advanced infrastructure and government support to achieve success in business projects.

Establishing a company in the Emirates

Steps to establish a company in the Emirates

Here are basic steps for setting up a company in the UAE:

1. Determine the type of company and business activity: Decide what type of company you want to create, such as a limited liability company (LLC), a joint-stock company, or a branch of a foreign company.

Determine the business activity the company will engage in, which must be compliant with local regulations.

1. Choosing a company name: Choose an appropriate company name and ensure that it does not conflict with the names of companies previously registered with the Department of Economic Development (DED) or in the chosen free zone.
2. Determine the company’s geographical location: Choose a suitable location for the company’s headquarters, whether within a specific emirate or in a free zone.
3. Prepare the necessary documents: Prepare the company’s articles of incorporation and articles of association, and have them notarized by an accredited notary.
4. Submitting an application for registration and initial approvals: Submit an application to obtain initial approval from the Department of Economic Development or from the relevant authority in the free zone.
5. Payment of capital and issuance of certificates: Provide the capital required to open the company if required, and obtain the appropriate share or unit certificates.
6. Obtaining a commercial license: After initial approval, submit the final documents and obtain the final commercial license from the competent authority.
7. Registration in the Chamber of Commerce: Register the company with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the relevant emirate to obtain chamber membership and benefit from its services.
8. Open a company bank account: Open a company bank account at a local bank to manage financial transactions.
9. Insuring the company and registering with other government agencies: Insuring the company and registering it with the necessary social security and tax authorities if required.

Costs of establishing a company in the Emirates

The costs of establishing a company in the UAE vary based on several factors such as the type of company, location, and services required. Generally, basic costs include:

• Establishment and registration fees: These fees include the costs of preparing and ratifying incorporation contracts, and registration fees at the Department of Economic Development or the chosen free zone.
• Required capital: Some types of companies may require a specific capital as a legal requirement.
• Consulting and legal services fees: If you require expert assistance to provide legal or administrative advice, you may incur additional costs for these services.
• Chamber of Commerce registration fees: to complete registration, obtain membership in the Chamber of Commerce and benefit from its services.
• Residency and work visa fees: If you intend to bring in foreign employees, you will need to provide them with residence and work visas, which involves additional costs.
• Office rental costs: You must take into account the costs of renting an office or space for the company’s headquarters, whether within the free zone or in the local market.
• Additional services fees: such as administrative services, maintenance, security, and transportation within the free zone if the costs range between the stages.

Licenses required to establish a company in the Emirates

To establish a company in the UAE, you need several necessary licenses and approvals depending on the type of company and the location you choose to establish it. Here is a list of the basic licenses you may need:

1. A commercial license from the Department of Economic Development or the relevant authority: This license specifies the type of commercial activity that the company can practice.
2. Company Building License: If a company plans to rent an office or factory, it may need a license to build and label the space.
3. Professional License: In some cases, the company’s business activities may require an additional professional license for partners or managers.
4. Import and export license (if the company deals with goods): If the company intends to import or export goods, it will need a license from the relevant authorities.
5. Environmental or health licenses (if the company deals with hazardous materials or food): Depending on the type of activity, some companies may require environmental or health licenses.
6. Advertising and Publicity License: If the company is planning to carry out advertising and promotional campaigns, it may need a license from the local authorities.
7. Work and immigration licenses: If a company intends to employ foreign employees, it will need work and residence permits for them.
8. Sales and distribution license (if the company works in retail or distribution): Companies that work in the areas of retail or distribution may need a special license for that.

Our company’s services for establishing a company in the Emirates

Itqan Company provides company establishment services in Dubai and includes a wide range of services to help you establish your company in the Emirates. Among the services provided by Itqan Company:

• Company establishment consulting: Providing advice on the best type of company to invest in the UAE according to your needs.
• Arranging documents and permits: Assistance in preparing all documents necessary for registration and licensing in various government departments.
• Commercial license services: Providing assistance in obtaining a commercial license from the Department of Economic Development or an approved free zone.
• Legal consulting services: Providing legal advice on local regulations and laws and ensuring compliance.
• Accounts and accounting management: Providing accounting and auditing services to help you manage your company’s accounts efficiently.
• Accommodation and visa services: Assistance in arranging residence and work visas for foreign employees.
• Comprehensive post-establishment support: Providing ongoing support after the company is established in areas such as human resources management and strategic expansion.

At the end of this article, it becomes clear that establishing a company in the UAE is not just an administrative procedure, but rather a strategic investment in a growing and developing market. The UAE provides an ideal investment environment, as it enjoys advanced commercial legislation, easy administrative procedures, and a strategic location linking major markets to the world. By supporting small and medium businesses and facilitating foreign investments, the UAE provides ample opportunities for growth and expansion. If you are thinking of starting your own business here, the time is now. Choose the right emirate, follow the necessary steps carefully, and you will find yourself on your way to building a successful future in one of the most competitive and dynamic markets in the world.

The most important frequently asked questions about establishing a company in the Emirates