Company registration in the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an attractive destination for international business. Dubai, as one of the most dynamic cities in the world, offers unique opportunities for entrepreneurs.

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11Company registration in the United Arab Emirates

Top 10 reasons why you should open a business in the UAE?

  1. A robust financial sector. The UAE has a well-developed banking system that provides a wide range of financial services for businesses.
  2. Established logistics system. The geographical location of the country makes it an important transport hub for international trade.
  3. Developed tourism sector: Dubai attracts millions of tourists every year, which creates demand for various services and goods.
  4. A promising property market. Property investment in the UAE continues to grow, offering many business opportunities.
  5. Progressive service sector. The UAE is actively developing the IT, finance and consulting sectors, which opens up new horizons for entrepreneurs.
  6. One of the most favourable taxation systems in the world
  7. Developed Banking System. International rating agency Fitch Ratings Inc. in its UAE Bank Datawatch report stated the high performance and stability of the UAE banking system in 2022 and predicted its further development. This is due to facts such as: The UAE dirham to US dollar exchange rate has remained unchanged for more than 25 years. It is pegged to the dollar at a rate of 3.65. Thanks to the developed internet banking, entrepreneurs can quickly make banking transactions from anywhere in the world.
  8. Stable political standstill. The BTI Transformation index rates the UAE as a country with high political stability. This allows entrepreneurs and investors to anticipate risks and make long-term strategic decisions. The Arab Emirates places importance on openness in its policies. This creates trust among both the local population and foreign entrepreneurs. Transparent policies help to fight corruption and create a fair business environment.
  9. 100% ownership. On 1 June 2021, a law came into force that allows foreign businessmen to own 100% of the capital in local companies. This applies to more than 1,000 activities. Now, having a service agent or partner is only required for limited activities. Another way to retain 100 per cent business ownership is to register a company in one of the FEZs. Here, too, the involvement of a local partner is not necessary.
  10. Business lending opportunities. Low rates on loans and mortgages for entrepreneurs, which opens up new financial prospects for business.

Opening a company in Dubai is a step towards new opportunities and success in international business. With Trustreggeryou will receive professional support at every stage of the process. Don’t miss the chance to become a part of the rapidly developing UAE market. Submit your application today and start your journey to success!

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Our specialists will help you with choosing the form of registration, select the appropriate licence, advise you on taxes and further work in the UAE. In Dubai we will accompany you through the procedures of obtaining a resident visa and opening a bank account, and try to make your stay in the country as comfortable and efficient as possible.


Company registration in the UAE always goes through three stages:

  1. Selecting the company registration form, location, licence and the registration itself.
  2. Obtaining a resident visa.
  3. Opening a Bank Account.

At each stage we will literally accompany you by the hand and leave no detail unattended.

To start the company registration process in the UAE you need to:

  1. Apply for a consultation
    The first step in the company registration process is to apply for a consultation. At this stage, Trustregger specialists are ready to answer all your questions, discuss details and develop a personalized work plan. We will help you determine what documents are required and what steps need to be taken for successful registration.
  2. Conclude the contract
    Once all the details have been agreed, we draw up a contract that clearly outlines all the services to be provided and the payments required. This gives you peace of mind that all registration costs will be transparent and understandable.
  3. Provide the necessary information
    At this stage, you will be required to provide the correct details required for registration. We take care of all other activities, including preparation and submission of documents. This allows you to focus on other aspects of your business without being distracted by bureaucratic procedures.
  4. Keeping track of the registration process
    During the registration process, we liaise with the client 24/7. We keep you updated on the status of all stages, including licence processing, when you will need to fly to the UAE to obtain a visa and the opening of personal and corporate accounts. This allows you to keep up to date with any changes and not worry about possible delays.
  5. Receive a positive result
    Once all the steps have been completed, you will receive the necessary documents: licence, visa and Emirates ID. Corporate and personal accounts will also be opened. From this point, you will be able to officially start your business activities in the UAE.
  6. Business support in the UAE
    Once your company is incorporated, our experts continue to provide support. We offer tax and accounting support, which is especially important for successful business in the UAE. Our team will help you to understand local tax laws and requirements, as well as provide high-level bookkeeping.

Where is the best place to incorporate a company in the UAE?

In the UAE: it is possible to register a company in Mainland and Free Zone, but the choice of the place of incorporation depends on such factors as: type of activity, presence or absence of local counterparties in the UAE, planned logistics of goods, the requirement to have an office.

11Where is the best place to incorporate a company in the UAE?

Mainland company registration in the UAE

Registration of a mainland company in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an important step for entrepreneurs wishing to do business in one of the fastest growing regions of the world. A local company has the right to operate in the UAE and outside the country without restrictions, which makes it attractive to foreign investors and businessmen. It is important to note that this type of business is registered with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET – Department of Economy and Tourism), which is responsible for regulating commercial activities in the country.

Advantages of registering a local company in the UAE

Registering a local company in the UAE has many advantages. Firstly, it is an opportunity to freely conduct business within and outside the country. Secondly, the UAE offers favourable conditions for doing business, including low taxes and no income tax. Thirdly, the country has a developed infrastructure, which facilitates logistics and doing business.

In addition, the UAE is an important international financial centre, which opens up new opportunities for business expansion and investment attraction. Finally, having a local company makes it easier to establish business relations with local partners and clients.

Stages of local company registration with Trustregger

Registration of a company in the UAE is always divided into the following stages:

  1. Registration of a legal entity – this procedure takes 7-14 days.
  2. Obtaining UAE resident visa for business owners and CEO. The term of obtaining a resident visa for workers is 10 days.
  3. Opening a corporate account . The term of opening is from 10 to 45 working days.

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Cost of company registration in Mainland

Local company licences are divided into:

  • Commercial licence from 6000
  • Professional licence from 8000
  • Manufacturing licence from 9000
  • Tourism Licence from 7000


For a more accurate calculation it is necessary to find out information on the planned type of activity, the number of founders, as well as each licence has a number of requirements such as: the presence of a local office, permission from government agencies and confirmation of qualifications of the CEO.

Company registration in the UAE Free Zone

Free Economic Zones (Free Zones) in the United Arab Emirates represent a unique opportunity for foreign investors seeking to develop their business in one of the most dynamic and attractive markets in the world. These zones offer special conditions that greatly simplify the process of doing business and provide many benefits.

What are Free Zones?

Free-zones are special economic zones with unique rules and benefits that differ from the general norms applicable in the country. The main characteristics of free-zones include:

  • 100% foreign ownership: This means that investors can have full control of their companies without having to find a local partner.
  • Special tax treatment: Many free-zones offer a zero corporate tax rate and exemption from personal income tax.
  • Flexibility in licensing: Different types of activities can be combined in one license, which simplifies business organization.

Advantages of free-zones

  1. Ease of registration: The process of registering a business in free zones is much simpler and faster than in other jurisdictions.
  2. No currency restrictions: Investors can freely transfer funds abroad without any restrictions.
  3. Modern infrastructure: Free zones have modern office and warehouse facilities, which creates comfortable conditions for doing business.
  4. Access to international markets: The UAE serves as an important hub for East-West trade, which opens up new business opportunities.

Variety of Free Economic Zones

Free economic zones in the UAE can be divided into several categories depending on their specialization:

  • Seaports: These zones are located near seaports and are designed for companies involved in importing and exporting goods. They offer convenient access to international markets.
  • Airports: Zones located near international airports are ideal for businesses involved in logistics and cargo transportation.
  • Continental FEZs: These zones are not tied to transportation infrastructure and can be used for a variety of activities, including manufacturing and services.

 

Free zones of the United Arab Emirates Minimumя cost of a business license, EUR Registration period For whom this free zone is suitable Conditions for registering a company

DMCC

Dubai Multi Commodities Center

9 400 EUR 2-4 weeks Trade, export, import and resale of goods, services, consulting, technology and IT services, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, Real estate construction and design industrial production

100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).

Mandatory office or Coworking space rental within the free zone, internal pre-payment, authorized capital contribution (minimum 50 000 AED), business plan.

ABU DHABI GLOBAL MARKET 10 310 EUR from 2 weeks Financial services, legal services, asset management Mandatory office rental within the free zone, business plan, internal pre-payment of authorized capital capital requirements (minimum of 50 000 AED).

IFZA

International Free Zone Authority

3 835 EUR 5-8 business days Trade, oil products trade, services, logistics, cargo transportation, management, consulting, tax consultant, financial broker, asset management, IT sector, real estate, education

100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).

No physical presence required during the registration process. The license price includes Flexi Desk, virtual offices are provided. Possibility to rent storage facilities.  Flexibility in combining multiple activities under a single license. Free Zone has developed a mobile application for managing the company.

MFZ

Meydan Free Zone

3 855 EUR 2-4 weeks Trade, services, logistics, consulting, IT sector

100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).

Рабочее место в Open space workplace, simplified registration system.

DIFC

Dubai International Financial Centre

8 550 EUR from 2 to 10 weeks Financial services, international investment, оказание услугinsurance services, asset management

100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).

It is mandatory to rent an office inside the free zone, pre-planning before registering a company. Contribution of the authorized capital (minimum 50 000 AED).

JAFZA

Jebel Ali Free Zone

4 650 EUR from 3 to 8 weeks Logistics, the need to work with the port of Jebel Ali for unloading and loading goods

Allowed 100% foreign ownership of companies without involving a local partner (UAE).

It is mandatory to rent an office or warehouse within the free zone, internal pre-orders for company registration and deposit the authorized capital (minimum 50 000 AED).

SHAMS

Sharjah Media City

3 850 EUR 1 – 1-2 weeks Media, marketing, publishing, design

100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).

Virtual offices and a simplified registration system are provided.

SAIF

Sharjah Airport International Free Zone

6 195 EUR 1 – 1-2 weeks Logistics, production, the need to work with the airport for unloading and loading goods, business related to the sale авиазапчастейof air parts, air transportation.

100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).

It is mandatory to rent an office or warehouse within the free zone, confirm your business experience and obtain additional permits.

RAKEZ

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone

3 800 EUR 1 – 2 weeks Production, trade, services, media and education

Allowed 100% foreign ownership of companies without involving a local partner (UAE).

You must have an office or warehouse in the zone, and virtual offices are also available.

AFZA

Ajaman Free Zone

3 800 EUR

 

1 – 1-2 weeks

Production, trade, services, media and education

 

100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE). Business plan (required for industrial and service licenses).
KEZAD GROUP 4100 EUR 1 – 1-3 weeks Production, logistics, distribution, R&D (research and development)

100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).

It is mandatory to have an office or production space inside the zone.

  1. DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Center)
    9 400 EUR
    2-4 weeks
    Trade, export, import and resale of goods, services, consulting, technology and IT services, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, Real estate construction and design industrial production
    100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).
    Mandatory office or Coworking space rental within the free zone, internal pre-payment, authorized capital contribution (minimum 50 000 AED), business plan.
  2. ABU DHABI GLOBAL MARKET
    10 310 EUR
    From 2 weeks
    Financial services, legal services, asset management
    Mandatory office rental within the free zone, business plan, internal pre-payment of authorized capital capital requirements (minimum of 50 000 AED)
  3. IFZA (International Free Zone Authority)
    3 835 EUR
    5-8 business days
    Trade, oil products trade, services, logistics, cargo transportation, management, consulting, tax consultant, financial broker, asset management, IT sector, real estate, education
    100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).
    No physical presence required during the registration process. The license price includes Flexi Desk, virtual offices are provided. Possibility to rent storage facilities.  Flexibility in combining multiple activities under a single license. Free Zone has developed a mobile application for managing the company.
  4. MFZ (Meydan Free Zone)
    3 855 EUR
    2-4 weeks
    Trade, services, logistics, consulting, IT sector
    100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).
    Open space workplace, simplified registration system.
  5. DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre
    8 550 EUR
    From 2 to 10 weeks
    Financial services, international investment, insurance services, asset management
    100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).
    It is mandatory to rent an office inside the free zone, pre-planning before registering a company. Contribution of the authorized capital (minimum 50 000 AED).
  6. JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone)
    4 650 EUR
    From 3 to 8 weeks
    Logistics, the need to work with the port of Jebel Ali for unloading and loading goods
    Allowed 100% foreign ownership of companies without involving a local partner (UAE).
    It is mandatory to rent an office or warehouse within the free zone, internal pre-orders for company registration and deposit the authorized capital (minimum 50 000 AED).
  7. SHAMS (Sharjah Media City)
    3 850 EUR
    1 – 2 weeks
    Media, marketing, publishing, design
    100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).
    Virtual offices and a simplified registration system are provided.
  8. SAIF (Sharjah Airport International) Free Zone
    6 195 EUR
    1 – 2 weeks
    Logistics, production, the need to work with the airport for unloading and loading goods, business related to the sale авиазапчастейof air parts, air transportation.
    100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).
    It is mandatory to rent an office or warehouse within the free zone, confirm your business experience and obtain additional permits.
  9. RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)
    3 800 EUR
    1 – 2 weeks
    Production, trade, services, media and education
    Allowed 100% foreign ownership of companies without involving a local partner (UAE).
    You must have an office or warehouse in the zone, and virtual offices are also available.
  10. AFZA (Ajaman Free Zone
    3 800 EUR
    1 – 1-2 weeks
    Production, trade, services, media and education
    100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE). Business plan (required for industrial and service licenses).
  11. KEZAD GROUP
    4100 EUR
    1 – 3 weeks
    Production, logistics, distribution, R&D (research and development)
    100% foreign ownership of companies is allowed without involving a local partner (UAE).
    It is mandatory to have an office or production space inside the zone.

 

Register Your Company

Our experts will guide you in selecting the right registration type, obtaining the necessary licenses, and providing advice on taxes and business operations in the UAE. In Dubai, we’ll assist you with securing a resident visa, opening a bank account, and ensuring your experience in the country is smooth, productive, and hassle-free.


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