UAE COMPANY REGISTRATION

Limited Liability Company (LLC): Common for small to medium-sized businesses; requires a UAE national as a partner with at least 51% ownership.

Free Zone Company: Offers 100% foreign ownership and various tax benefits; must operate within the free zone or internationally, not directly in the UAE market.
Branch Office: Allows foreign companies to establish a presence in the UAE but requires adherence to certain regulations and sponsorship.

Representative Office: Suitable for companies looking to promote their products and services without conducting business operations.

Naming Guidelines: The name should not infringe on existing trademarks or be similar to other registered company names. It must comply with UAE naming conventions (e.g., no offensive language, no references to religions or politics).

Reservation: Submit the desired name for approval through the relevant authority, usually the Department of Economic Development (DED) in the emirate where you plan to set up.

Documents Required: Typically include passport copies of shareholders, proposed business activity, and business plan.

Initial Approval: Secured from the DED or relevant free zone authority, allowing you to proceed with the other registration steps.

For LLCs: The MOA must detail the share distribution, business activities, and management structure. It needs to be notarized by a public notary.

For Free Zone Companies: Follow the free zone authority’s guidelines, which may include drafting similar documents tailored to their specific requirements.

Requirement: A physical office space is mandatory for LLCs and some free zone companies. The office lease agreement must be submitted as part of the registration process.

Free Zones: Typically offer flexible office space options such as virtual offices, serviced offices, and flexi-desks.

Documents: Includes the notarized MOA, passport copies, proof of address, and lease agreement. Specific requirements vary by jurisdiction and company type.

Application Submission: Submit all documents to the DED or the respective free zone authority.

Registration Fee: Fees vary based on business type, size, and location. They generally cover the cost of registration, licensing, and other administrative services.

Additional Costs: These might include office rent, legal fees, and visa costs.

License Types: Depending on your business activity, you might need a commercial, industrial, or professional license.

Issuance: Once all documents are processed and approved, the business license will be issued.

Bank Account Setup: Open a bank account in the UAE in the company’s name. You will need the business license and other company documents for this process.

Employee Visas: For hiring staff, apply for employment visas.

Investor Visas: Obtain residency visas for company owners and their families, if required.

VAT Registration: If your company’s annual turnover exceeds AED 375,000, you must register for VAT with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).

Regulations: Ensure ongoing compliance with UAE laws, including regular financial reporting, tax filings, and adherence to local regulations.

Local Sponsorship: If setting up outside a free zone, you may need a local sponsor or partner.

Professional Assistance: Engage a business consultant or legal advisor to navigate the complexities and ensure compliance with all regulations.