Find a Local Sponsor
In Dubai, all mainland companies require a local sponsor who must hold 51% ownership of the company. The sponsor can either be an individual or a company, but their role is purely formal, and they do not participate in the day-to-day operations of the business.
Choose a Business Name
Select a unique and appropriate name for your company, which must be approved by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED). The DED has specific guidelines for business names, and any name considered inappropriate or offensive will be rejected.
Apply for a Mainland Trade License
The next step is to apply for a Mainland Trade License with the DED. This involves submitting the necessary documents, including the Memorandum of Association (MOA), which outlines your company’s activities, ownership structure, and other key details.
Obtain a Trade License
After your company is registered, you must apply for a trade license from the DED. The type of license required will depend on the nature of your business. This license is essential for legally operating within Dubai.
Rent a Business Location
You will need to lease a physical office space that meets the requirements of the Dubai Municipality. The location should be appropriate for your business activities and must comply with the municipality’s regulations.
Apply for Additional Permits
Depending on your business activity, you may need to apply for additional permits, such as commercial, industrial, or professional permits. These may require extra documentation and approvals from various government agencies.
Open a Corporate Bank Account
To operate your business, you will need to open a corporate bank account in Dubai. This account must be in your company’s name and registered with the DED.
Hire Employees
You will need to recruit employees to run your business. UAE labor laws outline specific requirements for hiring, including obtaining work visas and labor cards. Be sure to comply with these laws and obtain the necessary permits before hiring staff.
Register for Taxes
Depending on your business activities, you may need to register for taxes such as Value Added Tax (VAT). Make sure to follow Dubai’s tax regulations and register with the appropriate authorities.
