Company Registration in Dubai – An Overview

Aspect Details
Fees for Dubai Business Registration The fees for Dubai business registration start from 6500 AED
Timeline for Company Registration in Dubai The timeline for Dubai business registration usually takes up to 7 working days
Benefits of Company Registration in Dubai

Benefits of company registration in Dubai include the following:

  • 100% Foreign Ownership
  • Zero Corporate Tax
  • Strategic Location
  • Modern Infrastructure
  • Free Zone Incentives
  • Ease of Doing Business
  • Access to Skilled Workforce
  • Global Market Access
Types of Business Structures for Company Registration in Dubai

Types of company formation in Dubai include the following: 

  • Limited Liability Company (LLC)
  • Free Zone Company (FTZ)
  • Mainland Company
  • Branch Office
  • Representative Office
  • Sole Proprietorship
  • Public/Private Shareholding Company (PJSC/PSC)
Documents Required for Dubai Company Incorporation

Documents required for Dubai company incorporation include the following:

  • Passport Copies of Shareholders and Directors
  • Address Proof of Shareholders and Directors
  • Passport Size Photos of Shareholders and Directors
  • Business Plan
  • Business Activity
  • Company Name Reservation Certificate
  • Memorandum of Association
  • Articles of Association
  • Copy of Existing Trade License (If business is in operation)
  • Lease Agreement for a Physical Office (In case of Mainland Company)
  • Bank Reference Letter
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC)
Top Businesses for Foreign Entrepreneurs for Company Setup in Dubai UAE

Some of the top businesses for foreign entrepreneurs for company setup in Dubai UAE include the following:

  • E-commerce Business
  • Interior Design Company
  • Medical Clinic
  • Textile Manufacturing Firm
  • Event Management
Popular Free Zones in Dubai

Some of the popular Free Zones in Dubai are given below-

  • Jebel Ali Free Zone
  • Dubai Multi Commodity Center (DMCC)
  • Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ)
  • Dubai International Finance Center (DIFC)
Locations in Dubai to Setup Mainland Businesses
  • Bur Dubai Old City
  • Downtown
  • Business Bay
  • Al Barsha & Tcom
  • Dubai Media City
  • New Dubai
  • Al Qusais
  • Dubai Marina & JBR
  • Sheikh Zayed Road
How can we Help You with online company registration in Dubai?
  • Expert guidance on local laws in Dubai
  • Assistance to fast-track licenses & approvals
  • Ensuring tax compliance for the Dubai Free Zone business setup
  • Customized solutions to meet your business needs for company formation in Dubai Mainland
  • Streamlining the process of offshore company formation in Dubai

Your Partner for Dream Company Registration in Dubai

Let Enterslice assist you with your dream company registration in Dubai and dominate the UAE market.

get_started_img

Effortless and Quick Company Formation in Dubai Guaranteed!

Dubai is one of the most sought-after business destinations in the UAE. Global entrepreneurs with company formation in Dubai can leverage various tax benefits, such as 0% corporate tax rate, 0% dividend tax, and 5% VAT, to focus on boosting profitability. 120+ double taxation treaties prevent taxation on the same income twice, encouraging tax efficiency and easy trans-border commerce.

Company formation in Dubai facilitates businesses seeking seamless global expansion. Dubai offers world-class infrastructure and a luxury lifestyle, and its business-friendly policies make it lucrative for international entrepreneurs to invest there.

The iconic Burj Khalifa and vibrant cityscape reflect Dubai's commitment to innovation and advancement, making it an ideal investment destination with high returns. Let us assist you in empowering your business dreams with company registration in Dubai- No need to visit govt. Office, no hidden charges!

Robust Economy Headed for 5% Growth in 2025

0% CIT for Taxable Income up to AED 3,75,000

0% Dividend Tax

5% VAT

Double Taxation Avoidance with 120+ Double Tax Treaties

Advanced Infrastructure with Modern Amenities

Investor-friendly Policies

A Gateway between Asia, Europe & Africa

100% Foreign Ownership

Types of Business Structures for Dubai Company Set Up

Different types of Dubai company set up are available, and foreigners can choose the one that suits their business needs. Different types include LLCs, free zone companies, mainland companies, etc., each offering distinctive benefits, a legal structure, and global expansion prospects. Dubai Company incorporation types include the following:

Limited Liability Companies

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company (LLC) is a type of company registration in Dubai that needs at least two shareholders to start. However, an LLC can onboard a maximum of 50 shareholders. The liability of shareholders in an LLC is limited to the amount contributed. An LLC in Dubai can invest in different businesses, with the exception of insurance, banking, or monetary investments.

Free Zone Company

Free Zone Company (FTZ)

A free zone company or FTZ is another type of company formation in Dubai that enjoys various benefits, including separate tax laws, customs and ownership rights. Dubai free zone business setup allows 100% foreign ownership and is of two types - Free Zone Establishment with one shareholder and FTZ with up to 5 shareholders. Global entrepreneurs love it.

Mainland Company

Mainland Company

A Mainland company is a popular business entity registered with the DED (Department of Economic Development). There are no trade restrictions. Also, there is no Visa limit for your employees. Get the flexibility to open the branches across the boundaries of Emirates. Global entrepreneurs are fond of this entity.

Branch Office

Branch Office

A branch office is a type of Dubai company incorporation that can be set up on mainland Dubai or in free zones. It is an extension of the parent company and is best for businesses seeking to expand their presence in the local markets of Dubai.

Representative Office

Representative Office

A representative office is a type of Dubai business registration that allows global entrepreneurs to launch their presence there. While a representative office can engage in promotional activities, it cannot generate revenue or engage in commercial activities. Entrepreneurs can leverage a representative office to conduct market research before planning to register business in Dubai.

Sole Proprietorship

Sole Proprietorship

A sole partnership is a type of company registration in Dubai that allows a single owner to set up the business there. A sole proprietorship facilitates 100% ownership rights and operational flexibility. It allows the single owner to control, manage and administer the business. While the owners enjoy 100% share in profits, they are also responsible for all business debts and liabilities.

Public/Private Shareholding Company

Public/Private Shareholding Company (PJSC/PSC)

Offshore company formation in Dubai as a public shareholding company (PJSC) allows public shares to be traded. In contrast, a private shareholding company (PSC) does not allow shares to be traded publicly and restricts them to private investors. The UAE Commercial Companies Law regulates PJSC and PSC for corporate governance, each requiring a minimum number of shareholders.

How to Apply for Company Setup in Dubai UAE?

Company setup in Dubai UAE is an opportunity for global entrepreneurs to explore its dynamic business environment. The five-step procedure to register a business includes the following:

Select Business Structure

The first important step in company formation in Dubai is to choose between a mainland, free zone, etc, depending on the business goals and needs.

Reserve Company Name with DED/FZA

After that, reserve your company name with DED (Dubai’s Department of Economic Development)/ FZA (Free Zone Authority).

Choose a Business Activity

The next step for company registration in Dubai is choosing a suitable business activity based on the market demand and legal requirements.

Documentation Support

Our experts at Enterslice will assist you with the preparation and submission of KYC documents to DED/FZA.

Get a Trade License from DED/FZA

DED/FZA will verify and validate the documents and provide you with a Trade License to help you operate your business in a compliant way.

Complete the Registration with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce

After that, our experts will assist you with the acquisition of industrial licenses and the completion of the registration with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce.

Open a Corporate Bank Account

Our consultants at Enterslice will help you open a corporate bank account in the flourishing economy of Dubai.

Timeline for Online Company Registration in Dubai

Dubai company set up is a streamlined and quick process. While the overall process takes up to 7 working days, the timeline for different steps for online company registration in Dubai is given below:

Choose Business Activity: 1 Working Day

Selecting the business activity based on demand, industry regulations, and legal framework takes one working day to complete.

Select Business Structure: 1 Working Day

Choosing a suitable business structure, whether mainland, free zone or offshore, based on the specific business requirements takes one working day to complete.

Apply for Trade Name: 1 Working Day

Registering the chosen unique business name with the Department of Economic Development or Free Zone Authority takes one day.

Obtain Approvals & Licenses: 2 Working Days

Obtaining necessary government approvals and specific licenses to operate the business legally as per the business type takes about two working days.

Open Bank Account: 2 Working Days

Setting up a corporate bank account to facilitate financial transactions and meet operational requirements usually takes two working days to complete.

Documents Required for Dubai Business Registration

Global entrepreneurs seeking Dubai business registration must submit the following documents to proceed with their incorporation application:

Passport Copies of Shareholders and Directors

Address Proof of Shareholders and Directors

Business Plan

Business Activity

Company Name Reservation Certificate

Memorandum of Association

Articles of Association

Copy of Existing Trade License (If business is in operation)

Lease Agreement for a Physical Office (In case of Mainland Company)

Bank Reference Letter

No Objection Certificate (NOC)

Company Formation in Dubai is a Charm with Enterslice

Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking to start and run your dream business in Dubai? You are at the right place as we are here to fulfill your entrepreneurial dreams with company formation in Dubai. Just sit at your home and apply for company registration in Dubai while watching a cricket match or movie with your family members.

Our expert consultants are well versed in Dubai laws and regulations and extend support for company registration in Dubai. Do you have doubts or queries in mind to register business in Dubai?

Talk to our Enterslice consultants today and launch your business venture in Dubai Mainland/Free Zone.

Apply for Company Registration in Bahamas
300+ Local Consultants in Dubai

300+ Local Consultants in Dubai

99% Client Retention Rate

99% Client Retention Rate

Office Near Burj Khalifa

Office Near Burj Khalifa

Benefits of Dubai Company Incorporation

Dubai company incorporation offers several benefits to global entrepreneurs who can leverage the opportunity to establish their presence and boost their business there. Supported by a robust economy, some of the key benefits of company registration in Dubai include the following:

dubai company registration benefits

100% Foreign Ownership

Company registration in Dubai allows foreign entrepreneurs 100% ownership rights over their businesses registered within the free zone authority.

Zero Corporate Tax

Tax-free benefits in most sectors facilitate business setup in Dubai and help entrepreneurs maximize profitability and leverage the opportunity to reinvest for growth and expansion.

Strategic Location

Company setup in Dubai UAE acts as a gateway for entrepreneurs to explore the broader Asian, European and African markets and cater to a diverse 3.5 billion consumer base.

Modern Infrastructure

Entrepreneurs with company registration in Dubai can use its modern infrastructure, state-of-the-art amenities, technological advancement, and seamless connectivity to run their operations smoothly.

Free Zone Incentives

Online company registration in Dubai within the free zones helps businesses benefit from numerous tax incentives, including tax exemptions, duty-free import/export, and streamlined custom processes to achieve operational efficiency and boost profitability.

Ease of Doing Business

Mainland company formation in Dubai is a streamlined process. Backed by government incentives, transparent regulations, minimum bureaucratic hassles, and quick turnaround time, Dubai offers global entrepreneurs an ease of doing business.

Access to Skilled Workforce

Through company formation in Dubai mainland, entrepreneurs can access a diverse, professional and multilingual talent pool to fulfil their hiring requirements. The tech-savvy workforce helps businesses achieve their goals.

Global Market Access

Mainland business setup in Dubai is a gateway to leveraging the benefits of different trade agreements to access regional and international markets, make the best use of the favourable business climate to boost profits and plan expansion.

Prerequisites for Online Company Registration in Dubai

Online company registration in Dubai mandates businesses to meet the following prerequisites to facilitate the incorporation process.

  • Business Activity :- Defining the nature of the business in compliance with the regulatory needs is a must.
  • Trade Name :- Choosing a distinct trade name and ensuring its approval by the relevant authorities is important.
  • Business Structure :- It is essential to choose an ideal business structure between a mainland, free zone, or offshore setup based on the business needs.
  • Office Space :- Securing a physical or virtual office, depending on your business type, is crucial for online company registration in Dubai.
  • Documents :- It is important to prepare documents for Dubai company incorporation, including copies of passports, detailed business plans, and proof of residence.

Top Industries & Businesses for Company Formation in Dubai

Top 10 industries and businesses for company formation in Dubai for foreign entrepreneurs, yielding remarkable profits include the following:

Top 10 Industries for Offshore Company Formation in Dubai

  • Trading and Retail
  • Real Estate and Construction
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Financial Services
  • Technology and IT Services
  • Logistics and Transportation
  • Healthcare and Medical Services
  • Manufacturing and Industrial
  • Education and Training
  • Media and Entertainment

Top 10 Businesses for Dubai Company Set Up

  • General Trading Company & E-commerce Business
  • Property Management Firm & Interior Design Company
  • Travel & Tour Agency & Hotel or Resort
  • Investment Consultancy & Accounting & Bookkeeping Firm
  • Software Development Company & Digital Marketing Agency
  • Freight Forwarding Company & Warehousing & Distribution
  • Medical Clinic & Pharmacy Business
  • Food Processing Unit & Textile Manufacturing Firm
  • Private School or Institute & Corporate Training Center
  • Production House & Event Management

Post Setup Compliance for Company Registration in Dubai

Once the process for online company registration in Dubai is complete, businesses are required to adhere to post-incorporation compliance to ensure smooth and legal business operations, which include the following:

  • Renewing the Licenses Annually
  • Conducting Financial Audits
  • Tax Registration and Filing Annual Returns
  • Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) Disclosure
  • Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) Compliance
  • Maintaining and Updating Financial Records
  • Adherence to UAE Labor Laws Compliance
  • Maintaining Health and Safety Compliance
  • Adherence to Environmental Regulations
  • Updating Company Information (if applicable)
compliances_img

Company Setup in Dubai UAE: Dubai Mainland Vs Free Zone

In Dubai, a mainland company can perform its business operations anywhere within the UAE and beyond. On the other hand, a Free Zone company can perform its business operations within the designated free zones only. Have a look at the comparative analysis for company setup in Dubai UAE between Dubai Mainland and Dubai Free Zone-

Factor Dubai Mainland Dubai Free Zone
Foreign Ownership 100% Foreign Ownership (In Specific Sectors as per the Latest Regulations) 100% Foreign Ownership
Visa Eligibility No Restrictions Limited Visas
Regulatory Body Department of Economic Development (DED) Free Zone Authority (FZA)
Physical Office It Depends on the Type of Business License. May have a Physical or Virtual Office.
Repatriation of Profits 10% of Profits Every Year (Maximum- 50% of Capital) Transferred to a Statutory Reserve 100% Repatriation of Profits
Setup Costs Setup Costs Lower Initial Setup Costs
Local Agent No Local Agent Required Local Agent Required
Financial Audit Obligatory Financial Audit May Not Require a Financial Audit

Why is Enterslice the Best Choice for Dubai Company Set Up?

Enterslice is a pioneer in Dubai company set up. Our seasoned consultants at Enterslice hold over a decade of consulting industry experience by assisting more than 1000 entrepreneurs. Given below are the reasons why we are the first choice for company registration in Dubai-

  • 10+ Years of Proven Experience in Company Formation in Dubai
  • Supported the Dreams of 1200+ Entrepreneurs with Company Registration in Dubai
  • Comprehensive Understanding of the Local Laws for Company Registration in Dubai
  • An Incredible Success Rate of 99% with Dubai Company Set Up
  • Documentation Support to Register Business in Dubai
  • Customized Dubai Business Registration Solutions for Global Clients
  • Quick Turnaround Time of 30% for Offshore Company Formation in Dubai
  • End-to-end Assistance with Online Company Registration in Dubai
  • Simplify the Process of Mainland Business Setup in Dubai
  • Ease the Process of Dubai Free Zone Business Setup

FAQs on Dubai Business Registration

Have a look at the answers to the most asked questions:

Company formation in Dubai is a systematic and stepwise process. While the standard time to obtain company registration in Dubai is 7 business days, this timeline may be affected if the steps are not followed properly or if the documents submitted are incomplete.

Entrepreneurs must follow post-registration compliance requirements for company registration in Dubai, including license renewals, VAT registration, yearly audits, visa processing of employees, and meeting government regulations.

Dubai is a thriving economy that welcomes foreign investment. Backed by government initiatives and support, Dubai has managed to position itself as a top business destination in the Middle East. Some of the best cities to register business in Dubai include the following:

  1. Downtown Dubai
  2. Business Bay
  3. Dubai Marina
  4. Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)
  5. Dubai Silicon Oasis

There are many types of business structures for company registration in Dubai, which include- mainland companies, free zone companies, LLCs, offshore companies and branch companies. Each company type offers different features and suits specific business needs.

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program, which is valid for up to ten years. It allows qualified professionals to live, work, study, or travel freely within the UAE.

Dubai is one of the world's most popular destinations, and millions of visitors throng the city throughout the year. While Dubai is a scenic blend of modern architecture and desert wonders, some of the top attractions include the following:

  1. Burj Khalifa
  2. Desert Safari
  3. Palm Jumeirah
  4. Dubai Marina
  5. JBR Walk
  6. Global Village
  7. Ski Dubai
  8. Dubai Fountain
  9. Dubai Mall
  10. Dubai Aquarium

Yes, foreign entrepreneurs are eligible to apply for permanent residency (PR) in Dubai. However, they can also seek long-term residency through the Golden Visa program or by investing in the UAE.

Company formation in Dubai requires foreign entrepreneurs to obtain different licences and permits according to the sector's and industry's specific requirements. These include:

  1. Trade License (Commercial, Professional, Industrial)
  2. Food Safety Permit
  3. Event Management Permit
  4. Tourism License
  5. Freelance Permit
  6. Real Estate License
  7. Healthcare License
  8. Import/Export License
  9. E-commerce License
  10. Industrial Approvals
  11. Environmental Permits

Company registration in Dubai yields profitable results for global entrepreneurs as the emirate is one of the most sought-after business destinations in the Middle East. Some profitable ventures in Dubai include tourism, e-commerce, real estate, healthcare, beauty and wellness, digital marketing, and logistics.

Dubai company set up offers several features, enabling businesses to leverage the opportunity to establish their presence and maximize profits. Some of these features include 100% foreign ownership, low corporate tax rates, ease of doing business, a simple registration process, and modern facilities.

Company registration in Dubai offers several benefits to global entrepreneurs, helping them improve their operational efficiency and boost profitability. These include a strategic location advantage, tax incentives, low corporate tax, modern infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities, a robust economy, strong regulatory frameworks, and a broad consumer market.

Company registration in Dubai is a stepwise process, which must be followed to ensure a smooth registration and quick approvals. These steps include the following:  

  1. Selecting a suitable jurisdiction - free zone, mainland or offshore
  2. Reserving a unique business name
  3. Obtaining the necessary approvals
  4. Submitting the essential documents
  5. Managing trade licenses and permits

Yes, foreigners are allowed to own 100% of businesses in Dubai. However, this is possible only with Dubai free zone business setup and some sectors in mainland company formation in Dubai. Free zones also offer other lucrative incentives to drive investment from global stakeholders.

We partner with more than 100+ companies

-- Testimonials

Don't take our word for it

In the news

Get Started Live Chat