reliable & safe business setup in UAE

Business Setup in UAE

Registering a company in the UAE is a crucial step towards establishing a legal business presence in the region. This process encompasses several key elements, including obtaining approval for the company name, selecting the appropriate business activity, submitting the necessary documents, and obtaining the trade license. UAE-registered companies enjoy significant advantages, such as 100% foreign ownership, complete profit repatriation, and a multitude of other business benefits. It comes as no surprise that this option is highly favored among foreign investors, who are enticed by the prospects of tax savings, a favorable business environment, a superior quality of life, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. The UAE offers a diverse range of company registration options, catering to various business requirements. By following the correct company registration process, investors can effortlessly establish their companies in the UAE, free from unnecessary complications.


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    Pro Consultancy offers comprehensive assistance for those looking to establish a company in the UAE. Our team of expert professionals will guide investors through the process of registering a company based on their specific business requirements. Company registration in the UAE falls under three jurisdictions: Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore. Each jurisdiction offers various company setup packages tailored to meet different business needs. The cost of setting up a company in the UAE varies depending on the chosen business activity and jurisdiction. Recent changes allow the registration of Mainland Companies as 100% expatriate-owned entities in the UAE, subject to specific regulations based on the business activity and industrial sector. Free Zones and Offshore Companies, on the other hand, can be established with 100% expatriate shareholding. However, they differ in terms of characteristics, business operations, and governing laws. The minimum cost of company registration in Free Zones starts from AED 5,050, which may vary based on available facilities and visa options.

    Unlock Your Business Potential: Book a Free Consultation Today for Company Registration in UAE!

    Locations for Business Setup in the UAE

    Discover world-class locations in the UAE that provide the perfect start for your business journey.

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    UAE Mainland Business Setup

    Entrepreneurs often choose to establish their companies in Dubai Mainland or other mainland jurisdictions in the UAE. Reach out to our experts today and explore the advantages of registering your UAE mainland company.

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    UAE Free Zone Business Setup

    Achieving 100% ownership is feasible through a Freezone business setup in the UAE, yet it's crucial to be aware of certain limitations. Before determining whether a Freezone business setup is suitable for you in the UAE, seeking guidance from a specialist is imperative to guarantee a well-informed decision.

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    UAE Offshore Company Formation

    Establishing a company can often feel complex, but with offshore company formation in the UAE, the process becomes swift and uncomplicated. Pravo further streamlines this experience, allowing you to initiate an offshore company in the UAE without the need for a physical visit.

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    STEP BY STEP PROCESS OF COMPANY REGISTRATION IN UAE

    The Company Registration Process in the UAE is well-structured, comprising a series of activities necessary for successful company registration. Pro Consultancy specializes in handling the entire registration process, providing unparalleled support until the investor receives the company documents and beyond. The registration process begins with selecting an appropriate trade name and obtaining approval. The investor then chooses the suitable business activities to be included in their trade license. This ensures that the company is legally authorized to engage in trade or provide services based on the selected business activities. The next step involves submitting the application form, along with supporting documents and the investor’s profile, to the relevant authorities. Additionally, the investor is required to pay the trade license fee in order to obtain the company documents and trade license. With these in hand, they can proceed with applying for an investor visa and opening a bank account. Pro Consultancy offers comprehensive end-to-end business support services for new business registrations in the UAE and beyond. The following outlines the step-by-step company registration process in the UAE.

    1. COMPANY NAME & BUSINESS ACTIVITY APPROVAL

    To commence the process of company registration, it is crucial to finalize the company name and business activity. The chosen tradename must be approved by the relevant authority. Pro Consultancy will play a pivotal role in coordinating and submitting the necessary documents for company name approval, as well as facilitating the approval of the business activity. This step holds immense significance in the company registration process in Dubai. Careful consideration should be given to selecting the appropriate business activity since the trade license will reflect the chosen list of business activities. It is important to note that the business can only engage in the specific activities included in the trade license.

    2. DOCUMENT SUBMISSION & COORDINATION

    To establish a company in UAE, it is necessary to gather all the necessary documents, shareholder information, and arrange for their submission to the respective authority. The unique advantage in UAE is that a company can be opened without the shareholder’s physical presence.

     

    Our dedicated team at Pro Consultancy will efficiently coordinate the processing of your company license and other essential documents, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free company registration process. Our goal is to expedite the process, enabling you to achieve company registration in the shortest possible time while maintaining the highest standards of quality and efficiency.

    3. APPLYING FOR RESIDENCY VISA

    Once the company documents are approved and the trade license is obtained, investors can promptly apply for the UAE Residence Visa. This visa is available for those aspiring to establish a business in the UAE, granting them long-term residency. At Pro Consultancy, we handle the application process for the company immigration card and UAE Residence Visa. Our dedicated team of PRO Agents assists investors in completing the residence visa application form and ensures smooth coordination with the Government Authorities for visa processing. Rest assured, we streamline the process by arranging all necessary supporting documents.

    4. RESIDENCE VISA & EMIRATES ID PROCESSING

    The investor is required to travel to the UAE in order to undergo a medical test and have their residence visa stamped on their passport. As part of the Emirates ID Application process, an in-country medical examination is necessary for the investor.

     

    Once the medical examination and Emirates ID Application submission are complete, the UAE Residence visa application will be initiated for the investor. Our team of expert PRO Agents will handle the coordination of visa documentation, processing, stamping, and passport delivery to the investor at the earliest convenience.

    5. BANK ACCOUNT OPENING ASSISTANCE

    We effectively collaborate with UAE banks to facilitate the opening of company and personal bank accounts. When opening a corporate bank account, the physical presence of shareholders is required to comply with KYC regulations.

     

    Investors have the option to travel to Dubai, where they can conveniently obtain their Emirates ID, undergo medical examinations, and open a corporate bank account all in one go. While the paperwork for bank account opening can be completed remotely, physical presence is only necessary for verification purposes.

     

    By partnering with reputable business consultants like Pro Consultancy, you can benefit from professional consulting support for all aspects of business registration and related services. Our team of dedicated PRO Service Agents is well-equipped to handle each investor’s unique business requirements, ensuring a seamless process for document processing, company registration, collection, and delivery.

     

    Experience a hassle-free journey with our experts, who are committed to providing top-notch assistance throughout your business endeavors.

     

    HOW TO SETUP A COMPANY IN MAINLAND?

    The UAE Mainland is home to a diverse range of multinational corporations, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises. It presents a lucrative market for retail shops, restaurants, coffee shops, shopping centers, and more. Global brands are eagerly seeking opportunities to establish a presence in the UAE Mainland.

     

    Registering a Mainland Company in the UAE has become an increasingly attractive investment. This allows investors to actively engage with a multicultural audience and expand their reach in the local UAE markets. Notably, the recent amendment to the Commercial Companies Law has brought significant changes to the Mainland Company Registration Process.

     

    One of the key changes is the elimination of the requirement for a local sponsor or service agent when registering a Mainland Company. This means that expatriates can now fully own mainland companies in various business categories, including commercial, industrial, and trading sectors. However, certain strategic sectors such as energy, banking, and oil & gas still impose restrictions on full expatriate ownership.

     

    Additionally, sectors related to security, defense, military activities, as well as services like fisheries, banks, exchange shops, and telecommunications, also have limitations on expatriate ownership.

     

    Fortunately, there is a positive business activity list consisting of approximately 122 sectors that can be fully owned by expatriates. However, it is important to note that there may be minimum capital requirements for selected business activities.

     

    Overall, the UAE Mainland offers a promising business environment, with favorable opportunities for both multinational corporations and individual investors to thrive and succeed.

    In the case of the services sector, there is 100% foreign expatriate ownership in all business activities. Also, there is no local service agent to be appointed for liaising with DED for the administrative works. Following are the major company structures in the Mainland of UAE.

    A. LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC)

    The Limited Liability Company (LLC) structure is widely favored in the mainland of UAE. It is particularly chosen by investors when there are more than 2 shareholders, up to a maximum of 50. Setting up an LLC Company in the region offers several business benefits for entrepreneurs.

     

    In an LLC, liability is limited to the extent of the shares owned by the investor. This flexible structure allows for the formation of LLC Companies for various business activities in the Mainland of UAE, including commercial, services, and industrial sectors.

     

    One notable advantage is that selected business activities under LLC Company Formation can be 100% expatriate-owned. This means there is no requirement for a local UAE National Sponsor when establishing an LLC Company in the mainland of UAE.

    B. PROFESSIONAL COMPANY (CIVIL WORK COMPANY)

    Professionals in various fields such as consulting, legal, accounting, and medicine have the opportunity to establish a Civil Work Company in the mainland of the UAE. One notable advantage is that the owner can retain 100% ownership of the company’s shares. Registering a Civil Work Company with the Department of Economic Development (DED) in the respective emirates of the UAE is a straightforward process.

     

    For those looking to start a business in the UAE, opening a Civil Works Company presents an excellent option for skilled professionals. The Dubai Economy offers a diverse selection of Professional Licenses, providing entrepreneurs with ample choices. Establishing a Civil Works Company in the UAE offers numerous benefits for entrepreneurs, including the key highlight of 100% ownership for shareholders without the requirement of a UAE National as a partner.

    C. BRANCH OR REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE OF FOREIGN COMPANIES

    Investors with a Free Zone company in the UAE, or any company outside of the UAE, have the opportunity to establish a Branch in the Mainland. There are specific requirements and criteria for forming a Branch or Representative Office. Opening a branch office presents a lucrative business investment for foreign companies, offering an ideal option for those seeking active expansion into the local UAE markets.

     

    A Branch Office allows large organizations to streamline their business operations in new markets, while also serving as a means to gauge market conditions and audience response before embarking on a broader expansion plan.

    HOW TO OPEN A COMPANY IN FREEZONE?

    Registering a Free Zone Company in the UAE is comparably easier than forming a Mainland Company. The Free Zones in Dubai are highly sought-after due to their streamlined business setup process, top-notch facilities, and thriving business ecosystem.

     

    One significant advantage of opting for a Designated Free Zone Company Setup is the exemption from Value Added Tax (VAT). Moreover, entrepreneurs can enjoy minimal running expenses for their Free Zone Companies. Payments for office space, amenities, and utilities are typically made upfront on an annual basis.

     

    The Free Zone Company Registration in Dubai offers a multitude of business benefits, including but not limited to:

    •   Exemption from VAT
    •   Exemption from filing audit report
    •   100% transfer of profits
    •   Easy transfer of ownership
    •   Availability of international quality warehouses

    Dubai’s Free Zones provide exceptional Company Formation Packages at affordable rates. The registration cost for a Free Zone Company in Dubai starts at just AED 13,900. With a diverse array of business activities, Free Zones in Dubai offer lucrative opportunities for investors to establish their ventures in the UAE.

    To know more on the list of activities and favorable Free Zone for your Company Setup, talk to our experts!

    HOW TO OPEN A COMPANY IN OFFSHORE JURISDICTION?

    Offshore companies in Dubai serve as legal business entities facilitating international trade. Registered as International Business Companies (IBCs), they operate outside of UAE’s local business jurisdictions and legal systems, exempt from VAT and UAE Customs regulations.

     

    It’s important to note that offshore companies are not permitted to engage in local UAE market trading. Typically, international trading companies, holding companies, consulting services, and property investors opt for offshore company registration.

     

    While offshore companies cannot apply for residence visas for their employees, opening a bank account is possible albeit subject to strict compliance checks. The process may be time-consuming. Despite this, offshore company registration ensures security and offers investors a wide range of benefits, including tax savings, profit transfer, and foreign ownership privileges.

    To know more about Offshore Company Registration in UAE click here!

    COST OF COMPANY REGISTRATION IN DUBAI

    The cost of Company Registration in Dubai may vary depending on the nature of the business. Company Formation Cost in Dubai is mostly straightforward and there are no hidden costs. The cost component is split majorly into the following headers broadly – Documentation & Attestation, Business License, Visa Processing & Immigration.

    Certain business activities may necessitate obtaining additional approvals and document clearances from the relevant authorities. Business consultants will charge a service fee for providing services related to company formation and PRO Services.

    The cost of registering a company in Dubai ranges from AED 5,000 to AED 25,000 for a Civil Company, including a virtual office and trade license valid for one year. Pro Consultancy specializes in providing affordable company setup solutions in Dubai, catering to the needs of investors seeking cost-effective options.

    DUBAI LLC COMPANY REGISTRATION COST

    The cost of LLC company registration in the UAE encompasses all essential expenses for establishing your business. Among these expenses is office rent, a significant cost factor. Careful consideration should be given to selecting the appropriate physical office location in the UAE, taking into account the nature of your business and its annual turnover.

    LLC Business Setup Cost in UAE is in the range of AED 19,000 and AED 45,000. The cost varies depending on the chosen license type and the company structure. Additionally, visa fees and office rent are significant components of the business setup expenses in the UAE.

    COST BREAKUP FOR REGISTERING A COMPANY IN DUBAI IS GIVEN BELOW:

    DescriptionServices License FeeTrading License FeeGeneral Trading License Fee
     Sole EstablishmentCivil CompanyLimited Liability CompanyLimited Liability Company
    Trade Name SubmissionAED 776.50AED 776.50AED 776.50AED 776.50
    Initial Submission ApprovalAED 256.50AED 256.50AED 256.50AED 256.50
    Virtual Office with Ejari & Tenancy for 1 yearAED 10,000AED 7,000AED 10,000AED 10,000
    License FeeAED 8000AED 9000AED 13,000AED 30,000
    Total Dubai Company Setup CostAED 19,033AED 17,033AED 24,033AED 41,033

    REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR LLC COMPANY REGISTRATION IN DUBAI

    Establishing a company in UAE follows certain steps and documentation processes. Investors must submit the required documents, choose the right business activities and pay the trade license fee.

    •   Application form
    •   Passport Copy
    •   2 Photographs (white background)
    •   NOC if already in UAE residency visa
    •   Tenancy Contract Copy
    •   Location Map
    •   Designation Details:- Higher Designation Requires Degree Certificate (Attested)

    ONLINE COMPANY REGISTRATION IN DUBAI

    Online Company Registration in Dubai helps investors to set up their companies from the comfort of their homes. Entrepreneurs based across the world can easily register their companies in Dubai. Hence, investors can benefit in numerous ways from the online company registration in Dubai. Many of the Free Zones do not require the physical presence of the shareholder for registering the company.

    The expert Business Consultants in Pro Consultancy will assist in the complete process of the company registration in UAE. The Team will assist investors in various administrative tasks. It includes preparing the application form choosing the right business license & activities etc. Also our PRO agents support in getting special approvals, submitting the documents to the Free Zone authority, and more.

    Pro Consultancy also provides Corporate Bank Account Opening Assistance to the investors. Additionally we offer Customs Registration, Emirates ID processing, and trade financing support in UAE. You can easily register your company online by following steps.

    1. CONTACT Pro Consultancy FOR AN INITIAL BUSINESS CONSULTING

    Get expert Business Consulting from the team of Business Consultants at Pro Consultancy . The team will provide the right business advice based on the specific client requirements and market landscape.

    2. THE SELECTION OF TRADE NAME AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES

    The right trade name must be selected for the business and also the trade activities. that will be conducted by the business.
    Pro Consultancy will assist in the selection of the right Tradename, business license, business activity, and business jurisdiction based on the investor’s specific business requirements.

    3. SUBMISSION OF DOCUMENTS TO Pro Consultancy

    The investor must submit the documents to the Pro Consultancy team through email. They must share the passport copy, photograph, brief business idea, and shareholder CV. Pro Consultancy will prepare the application form and share it with the investor for review. After the review and confirmation of the submitted documents, they will be submitted to the specific licensing authority.

    4. COORDINATION WITH LICENSING AUTHORITY

    The Business Consultants at Pro Consultancy will coordinate with the specific licensing authorities. The team will prepare the application, submit the documents, track the progress and update the investors about the status of their company license.
    There is no physical presence of the Investor required for opening a company in UAE. Being the Registered Agent for more than 15 Free Trade Zones, Pro Consultancy will conduct all the required checks and actions on behalf of the investors.

    5. FEE PAYMENT

    For the online company registration, the Investor can follow the secure payment methods available from Pro Consultancy such as the Direct Bank Transfer or Pay-By-Link. Pro Consultancy Team will coordinate with the Business Licensing Authority to process the Trade License as per the investor’s business requirements at the earliest.

    6. OBTAINING COMPANY DOCUMENTS

    The investor will receive the trade license and all other company documents upon making the fee payment to the licensing authority. Pro Consultancy will coordinate in getting the trade license and other company documents in the shortest time. Investors will receive their company documents delivered to the doorstep.

    Online Company Registration in Dubai is becoming more popular since the pandemic. Many Free Zones in the region have adopted completely online processes to issue trade licenses. Investors need not land in UAE for registering the company and for doing the paperwork.

    Foreign Investors can associate with Pro Consultancy and complete their company registration process online. They can send the required documents online to our team for processing the company registration in UAE. Our team will coordinate with the respective Free Zone authority for the issuance of the trade license to the investor.

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