Setting up a business in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can be an attractive proposition due to its strategic location, business-friendly environment, and various free zones that offer tax incentives and other benefits. Here is a guide on how to set up a business in the UAE:

1. Decide on the Business Structure:

• Free Zone Company: If you want 100% ownership of your business and are willing to operate within a specific free zone.

• Mainland Company: If you plan to do business outside the free zones and want to have a local Emirati partner or service agent.

• Offshore Company: For businesses that don’t require a physical presence in the UAE and are mainly used for holding assets or international trading.

2. Choose the Right Business Activity:

• Determine the specific activities and services your business will engage in. Different activities may require different licenses and approvals.

3. Select a Business Name:

• Choose a unique and appropriate name for your business. Make sure it complies with UAE naming regulations.

4. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Approvals:

• Depending on your business activity and location (free zone or mainland), you’ll need to apply for the relevant licenses and approvals from government authorities.

5. Find Local Sponsorship (Mainland Company):

• If you’re setting up a mainland company, you’ll generally need a local Emirati partner who will hold at least 51% ownership in the business. There are exceptions for certain professional licenses.

6. Register Your Business:

• Submit the required documents and pay the necessary fees to register your business with the relevant authorities.

7. Open a Corporate Bank Account:

• Once your business is registered, you’ll need to open a corporate bank account in the UAE.

8. Arrange Office Space:

• Depending on your business setup, you may need to lease office space in a free zone or mainland location.

9. Hire Employees (if needed):

• If your business requires employees, you’ll need to apply for work visas and comply with UAE labor laws.

10. Comply with Taxation Regulations: – The UAE has introduced a Value Added Tax (VAT) system. Ensure your business complies with VAT and other taxation regulations.

11. Protect Your Intellectual Property (if needed): – If your business relies on intellectual property, consider registering trademarks, patents, and copyrights to protect your assets.

12. Seek Legal and Financial Advice: – It’s advisable to consult with legal and financial experts who are well-versed in UAE business regulations to navigate the complexities of setting up a business.

13. Consider Cultural and Business Etiquette: – Familiarize yourself with the cultural norms and business etiquette in the UAE to build strong relationships with local partners and clients.

14. Maintain Compliance: – Ensure ongoing compliance with UAE laws and regulations to avoid any legal issues in the future.

15. Network and Build Relationships: – Building a network of contacts and relationships with local businesses and government authorities can be crucial for success in the UAE.

Setting up a business in the UAE can be a rewarding venture, but it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the specific requirements and regulations related to your business activity and location. Seek professional guidance to ensure a smooth and successful business setup process.

Grow in UAE – Promising Investment Opportunities

Over the past 50 years, the United Arab Emirates has been able to transform its fishing and agriculture-based economy into an advanced and competitive economy, thanks to the comprehensive and integrated development plans of the government. These plans have come to fruition, culminating in the UAE becoming a global frontrunner for economic performance and favorable investment environment. The proactive vision of the country’s wise leadership has been a pivotal enabler, which has contributed to transforming the UAE into a global investment hub. This was coupled with activating enablers of smart government, adopting a modern approach in managing the UAE’s affairs, and promoting investment in new economic sectors such as technology, artificial intelligence and space sciences. The country’s economic performance has reflected on improved standards of living for individuals and increased corporate revenues; in addition to boosting Invests opportunities. Today, the UAE looks forward to another 50 years of development and prosperity.

Why the UAE is Considered – One of the World’s Most Attractive Investment Hubs

The investment attractiveness of the UAE witnessed a steady increase over the past years. With its ability to attract substantial investments, the country enhanced its cumulative FDI inflows and became one of the most preferred investment destinations across the world. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the UAE was the world’s 15th biggest recipient of foreign direct investment in 2020. It was also ranked the most attractive country for investments in West Asia, Middle East and North Africa regions. Today, the UAE is looking to attract more investments, promote its investment environment, provide greater incentives to investors, and raise its rank on the Ease of Doing Business Index.

Effective Government Strategies

The UAE Government has ambitious strategic development objectives, and realises its vision through wise policies and initiatives that aim to drive the economy and foster happy societies. These development plans were accompanied by exceptional projects for more than half a century, even as it aspires for a more diversified, competitive and adaptable economy based on science and innovation. The UAE’s future endeavors are spearheaded by inclusive strategies towards achieving a digital and knowledge-based economy.

A Diversified and Competitive Economy

The UAE made tremendous efforts in economic and social development to transform its simple economy into a modern, advanced, open and competitive economy. Over the last 50 years, the UAE managed to increase its GDP more than 247 times (AED 1.6 trillion compared to AED 6.5 billion when the union was established), reducing the contribution of oil to the GDP to less than a third, compared to more than 90% in 1971.

Strategic Infrastructure and Location

The government has pumped investments and capital into major public transport and renewable energy projects that have become key pillars in the new economic milieu. The UAE has 10 major airports, 12 seaports, an unrivalled network of roads and bridges, and 6 national carriers connecting to over 200 cities worldwide. This enables 33% of the world’s population to reach the UAE within 4 hours, and 66% to access the country within 8 hours.

100% Company Ownership