One Central – Offices No. 4 Dubai | Office: +971 45686046
ITQAN is a company that specializes in business setup and business growth

Steps and procedures for establishing a company in Dubai

تأسيس شركة في جبل علي

٠٨ مارس Steps and procedures for establishing a company in Dubai

Establishing a company in Dubai is an important strategic step towards business success, given the emirate’s distinct business environment and diverse investment opportunities. The process of establishing a company in Dubai begins with a thorough understanding of the legal and administrative requirements involved, which include choosing the appropriate type of company, determining the business activity, and preparing the necessary legal documents. Organized procedures contribute to accelerating the registration process and complying with local laws, making it easier for foreign and local investors to successfully achieve their business goals. By cooperating with the relevant authorities, new companies can benefit from the facilities provided by Dubai, including free zones that provide additional benefits such as tax exemptions and full foreign ownership. In this article, we will review the steps and procedures for establishing a company in Dubai in detail, ensuring that the path to a smooth and successful establishment experience is paved.

Steps and procedures for establishing a company in Dubai

Steps and procedures for establishing a company in Dubai

Steps and procedures for establishing a company in Dubai

Establishing a company in Dubai requires following specific steps and procedures to ensure compliance with legal requirements and obtain the necessary licenses. The process begins with determining the appropriate type of company, where one can choose between limited liability companies, public joint stock companies, or sole proprietorships. Next, the business activity must be determined and an application for a trade license must be submitted from the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai. This requires submitting basic documents such as a copy of the passport, the lease contract for the company’s office, and a copy of the Emirates ID card. After obtaining the license, the company must be registered in the commercial register and a tax membership number issued. If the company wishes to operate from a free zone, an application must be submitted to the authority supervising that free zone, which provides additional facilities such as tax exemptions and 100% foreign ownership. Additional steps include opening a commercial bank account, hiring employees, and registering for the social insurance system. To ensure that the procedures go smoothly, it is preferable to work with Itqan Company, which provides specialized consultations to facilitate the process and ensure full compliance with local laws.

After completing the above procedures, the company must ensure that all operational requirements are met, such as securing the necessary visas for employees and investors, and registering the company in the Dubai e-transactions system to facilitate the management of financial and administrative matters. The company must also comply with local laws related to labor and employment, including occupational health and safety requirements. Once all steps are completed, the company can start its commercial operations and open its doors to customers. Dubai is a supportive environment for business, thanks to its advanced infrastructure and investment-friendly policies. Therefore, the emirate offers distinct opportunities for growth and expansion. By following the steps and procedures carefully, new companies are guaranteed to succeed in the dynamic Dubai market.

Collaborating with local and specialized partners can help speed up the process and overcome any challenges that startups may face. Therefore, it is advisable to plan well and deal with legal advisors to ensure the establishment of a successful company that is compliant with all local regulations.

The importance of steps and procedures for establishing a company in Dubai

The steps and procedures for establishing a company in Dubai are essential to ensuring the success of the business project. The importance of these steps lies in the following points:

  1. Legal Compliance: Companies’ adherence to legal procedures ensures compliance with local regulations, protecting them from fines and penalties. Proper licensing and registration protects companies from legal issues that may hinder their operations.
  2. Providing the necessary licenses: Obtaining the appropriate licenses from the competent authorities allows companies to practice their activities legally and helps avoid illegal practices. Dubai provides various types of licenses that suit different business activities.
  3. Speed ​​up business processes: Following the right steps will speed up the company registration and incorporation process, allowing the company to start its business quickly and efficiently. Organized procedures will help reduce the time and costs associated with starting a business.
  4. Benefit from local advantages: Through company formation procedures in Dubai, companies can benefit from the advantages offered by free zones, tax exemptions and full foreign ownership, which enhances their competitiveness.
  5. Building a strong reputation: Compliance with legal procedures enhances the company’s reputation in the market and reflects its professionalism and reliability, which contributes to attracting customers and business partners. Therefore, following the steps and procedures of establishing a company accurately increases the chances of success and contributes to achieving business goals effectively.

Cost Factors Associated with Starting a Business in Dubai

The costs associated with setting up a company in Dubai include several factors that affect the final total expenses. These factors include:

  1. Licensing fees: vary depending on the type of business activity and the type of license required. This includes commercial, industrial and service licenses.
  2. Registration costs: include the fees for registering the company in the commercial register and paying the fees for obtaining the tax membership number.
  3. Office Rent: Includes the cost of renting a commercial office space, which varies based on location and office size. In free zones, there may be less expensive virtual office options.
  4. Legal Consultation Fees: Includes costs of obtaining legal advice to ensure compliance with legal requirements and provide assistance in preparing documents.
  5. Opening a bank account: There may be costs associated with opening a business bank account, which may include account opening fees and additional costs depending on the banks.
  6. Work and Residence Visas: Includes the cost of issuing work and residence visas for employees and investors, which may vary based on the number of people and residence requirements.
  7. Insurance: The cost of insuring the company, which may include liability insurance and property insurance.
  8. Additional services: May include additional costs such as translation services, documentation, and registration with other government agencies.
  9. Establishment costs in free zones: If the company is established in a free zone, the costs may include the licensing fees for that zone, and its establishment costs.

Costs vary depending on the size of the company, the type of business, and the location. Therefore, it is important to plan financially well and consult experts to accurately estimate costs.

Types of companies in Dubai.

Types of companies in Dubai.

Types of companies in Dubai

In Dubai, there are several types of companies that can be established, and the choice depends on the nature of the business activity and the legal structure required. The following are the most prominent types of companies in Dubai:

  • Limited Liability Company (LLC): Requires a local partner to own 51%, while a foreign investor can own 49%. It is a popular option for businesses wishing to operate within Dubai.
  • Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC): Can be public or private, and allows for the sale of shares to the public. There must be a supervisory committee and a board of directors, and must comply with securities laws.
  • Sole Establishment: Owned by one individual who is solely responsible for all financial and legal obligations. Suitable for small businesses that do not need a partner.
  • Branch of a foreign company: Allows foreign companies to open a branch in Dubai, and enjoys the same legal independence as the parent company. It does not require a local partner, but the branch must be under the supervision of the parent company.
  • Free Zone Company: Established in one of Dubai’s free zones, this allows foreign investors to fully own the company without the need for a local partner. It offers benefits such as tax exemption and flexible licensing, but is limited to operating within the free zone or online.
  • Branch of Foreign Company: Foreign companies are allowed to open a branch in Dubai without the need for a local partner. The branch must also comply with Dubai laws and operating standards.
    Choosing the right type of company depends on the business objectives and strategy that the investor intends to achieve.

In conclusion of our article on the steps and procedures for establishing a company in Dubai , we find that following the process accurately and in an organized manner is the key to success in achieving business goals. From choosing the right type of company and determining the business activity, to completing the necessary licenses and registering the company, each step plays a vital role in building a strong foundation for your business. Dubai offers a stimulating business environment thanks to its advanced infrastructure and the facilities it provides to investors, making it a preferred destination for businesses. In addition, working with legal advisors or specialized consulting firms can facilitate the establishment process and ensure full compliance with all legal requirements. By adhering to the correct procedures, new companies can confidently set off towards achieving success and expansion in the dynamic Dubai market. Ultimately, Dubai opens its doors to companies seeking growth and innovation, making it an ideal platform for achieving business goals and future ambitions.

Frequently asked questions about establishing a company in Dubai