UAE Residency for Business Owners

*License must be renewed yearly

Benefits of Starting a Business in the UAE

The UAE is a leader in economic development in the Arab world, ranking first in the quality of its taxation system. Opening a company in Dubai is advantageous due to its economic diversification and numerous free zones. The advantages of operating in the region are significant, and the business setup process is simple and transparent.

• Low tax burden for businesses and no taxes for individuals
• Capital repatriation
• Easy foreign ownership registration
• Low import-export costs
• Owner confidentiality
• Major global and regional business hubs with excellent logistics
• Steady population influx, hence potential consumers
• Wealthy population willing to pay for quality products and services
• Great networking opportunities and international market access

Company Registration Procedure

1. Choose your business activity

Decide on the business activity you intend to engage in within the UAE. Analyse the niche for potential competition and market
demand.

2. Select a legal structure

Determine the suitable company type for your business, whether a partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Free Zone Company (FZC), or foreign branch.

3. Choose a company name

Select several unique and suitable trade names since registration may be denied if the name already exists.

4. Obtain necessary licences and permissions

Depending on your business, special licences and permissions from relevant UAE authorities may be required.

5. Choose premises or office

Select the optimal premises for your business. The Emirates offer a wide range of commercial, office, and warehouse spaces, as well as coworking spaces and so-called flexi-desks. Virtual office options, providing a legal address only, are possible. In most free zones, office space is included in the registration package.

6. Register your company

Register your company with the relevant authorities - for example, with DED for mainland companies, or the respective free zone authority. Provide all necessary documents and pay the required fees to obtain registration.

7. Obtain a visa and work permits

For residence visa processing, you and your employees need to obtain an Establishment Card or Company Immigration Card, issued by the immigration authorities of the emirate where the business is registered. The cost of such a document is 5,000 AED, with a validity of 1 year and requiring annual renewal.

8. Open a corporate bank account

Once your company is registered, proceed to open a corporate bank account. The bank will ask for your resume, account statements from other banks, and registration documents for your existing business. Our experts will give you detailed advice and prepare the whole package of documents for the bank.

Cost of a Business Owner Visa

The cost of starting a company in the Emirates depends on the registration location, office size, and the number of employees.

Minimum cost of company registration with one visa 13,500 AED