Setting up a company in the UAE is streamlined and applies universally across its seven emirates. You can either visit the Department of Economic Development in person or opt for online platforms to obtain a commercial licence swiftly by submitting the necessary documents. The process of company registration in UAE offers numerous benefits, including streamlined procedures and access to a thriving market. The duration of the process can vary depending on the type of business and the emirate chosen, but with proper guidance, the process can be expedited efficiently. Investors can opt for legal offices or designated companies for UAE company registration services. When starting a business in the UAE, you can select from various jurisdictions, including mainland and free zone options, making company formation in UAE a flexible and accessible process. Eligibility and required documents: When initiating the company registration UAE process, ensure you have all the required documents ready: ● A copy of your passport and visa ● A copy of your Emirates ID or entry visa stamp (for non-residents) ● A copy of the passport and visa of partner/s (if any) ● Two coloured passport-sized photographs Additional business documents such as the business plan and other necessary documents supporting your company. These may include no-objection certificates and approval letters from various government entities
1. Identify the nature of your business activity To initiate the process of company registration in the UAE, first, identify the nature of your business activity. This step is essential as it determines the type of licence that will be issued. There are more than 2,000 economic activities in the UAE. 2 . Determine your company's legal structure A business structure is based on the needs of the business and will determine the laws and regulations the company must adhere to. Visit the websites of the UAE’s economic departments in each emirate for a comprehensive guide on company formation in UAE and the expected process duration. 3 . Register the trade name The trade name is the name of the company, which must be unique and not be similar to the name of any other registered company. You can apply for a trade name through the chosen emirate’s Department of Economic Development. 4 . Apply for initial approval Initial approval is the UAE Government's acknowledgement that a specific business can be set up in the country, a crucial step for company formation in UAE and guiding you efficiently through the process. It streamlines the process, allowing investors to proceed with subsequent steps toward business establishment and licence issuance. However, it doesn't grant permission for business operations or activities. 5 . Create LSA or MOA For certain company types like civil, limited liability, public shareholding, or private shareholding companies, a Memorandum of Association (MOA) is needed. Meanwhile, a local service agent agreement (LSA) may be required for sole proprietorships. 6 . Choose your business location In the UAE, businesses must adhere to specific location guidelines set by the Department of Economic Development and local municipalities. Choosing a suitable location is crucial for company registration in the UAE, as it directly influences the process duration and the success of the establishment. 7 . Apply for additional government approvals Depending on the nature of your business, in some cases, additional approvals from government entities might be required. For instance, if your company is involved in insurance consultancy, then you need to get approval from the UAE Ministry of Economy. 8 . Submit required documents These documents include the receipt of initial approval, a copy of the lease contract, MOA and approvals from other government entities among others. 9 . Pay fees and collect the licence Customers can collect the business licence from service centres of the economic department or through their website. 10 . Register your company with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Please note that the registration of the company must be in the same emirate where it has been incorporated.
1 . Identify the nature of your business activity The UAE free zones provide various business licences tailored to different types of ventures, including commercial trade, consultancy, e-commerce, freelancing, and education. 2 . Determine your company's legal structure Legal company structures in the UAE vary based on business nature and needs, dictating adherence to specific laws. The types of legal forms for businesses in the UAE free zone include Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC), Free Zone Company (FZ Co.) and Free Zone Establishment (FZE). 3 . Register the trade name The name of the company. It must be unique and must not be similar to the name of other registered companies. You can apply to obtain a trade name through the respective departments of economic development. 4 . Select a location for setting up your business In the UAE, there are over 45 free zones. Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), a prominent zone aiding startups, SMEs, and industrialists with their business set-up processes and requirements. 5 . Obtain the initial approval You must submit the necessary documents to obtain the initial approval to register a new company in the UAE. Some activities such as tourism, travel and health will require additional government approvals that must be obtained from the relevant authorities. 6 . Registration and fee payment Pay fees and secure your company licence. Fees include company licence issuance fee, which depends on the type of licence.
According to the UAE Ministry of Economy, the company registration UAE process typically takes about four days. However, the timeline may vary depending on the business type and selected jurisdiction.
Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned SME, RAKEZ offers tailored solutions to guide you through the company registration UAE process efficiently.
● Streamlined and efficient company set-up procedures ● Comprehensive secretarial and business centre services ● Access to government services ● Flexibility in entity formations ● Versatile workspace options and industrial solutions Feel free to contact us via phone at +971 72041111 or email us at info@rakez.com with any inquiries about company registration in the UAE.
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