UAE — Complete Business Setup & Migration Guide

Overview

The UAE is one of the world’s most business-friendly environments, offering tax advantages, world-class infrastructure, and multiple ownership structures. Silicon Mappers assists you in selecting the right jurisdiction, handling all documentation, and ensuring smooth banking and immigration processes.

Business Structures

Mainland LLC – Full onshore operations, access to UAE government tenders, and often 100% foreign ownership.
Free Zone Company (FZ-LLC or FZE) – 100% foreign ownership, simplified setup, no import/export duty within Free Zone.
Branch Office – Extension of a foreign parent company.
Professional License – For service providers such as consultants and professionals.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

1. Define Your Business Activity

Confirm exact activity (or multiple) according to the Department of Economic Development (DED) or Free Zone list.
Some activities require special approvals (media, healthcare, education).

2. Choose Jurisdiction

Mainland: Ideal for unrestricted UAE market access.
Free Zone: Lower setup cost, specific industry focus.
Offshore: Holding/asset protection (not for local trade).

3. Reserve Trade Name

Select 2–3 options.
Must comply with UAE naming guidelines (no religious words, offensive terms, or political references).

4. Initial Approval from Authority

Confirms no objection to you starting the business.
Some approvals are instant; others require security clearance.

5. Prepare Documentation

Shareholder passports & photos
Proof of address (last 3 months)
CV (sometimes for professional license)
Parent company docs (if corporate shareholder)
Special approval forms (for regulated activities)

6. Draft & Sign MOA / LSA Agreement

For LLCs: Memorandum of Association.
For professional licenses: Local Service Agent agreement.
Attested by Notary Public (online notarization available in many emirates).

7. Secure Office or Flexi Desk

Mainland: Ejari certificate required.
Free Zone: Flexi-desk/office lease via the Free Zone authority.

8. License Issuance

Once documents are approved and fees paid, trade license is issued.

9. Immigration File & Establishment Card

Required to sponsor visas.

10. Investor/Partner Visa Process

Entry permit → Medical → Emirates ID → Visa stamping.

11. Corporate Bank Account Opening

Requires KYC package: License, MoA, share certificates, utility bills, contracts, website, invoices.

12. Post-Setup Compliance

VAT registration if threshold met.
UBO declaration, ESR filing, license renewal annually.

Document Requirements

Individual Shareholders

Passport copy (color, 6+ months validity)
Passport-size photo (white background)
Address proof (utility bill/bank statement)
Entry visa page or UAE ID (if resident)

Corporate Shareholders

Certificate of Incorporation
Memorandum & Articles
Board Resolution to invest & appoint representative
Good Standing Certificate (if over 1 year old)
All docs legalized/apostilled & attested by UAE embassy + MOFA

Migration / Visa Pathways

Investor Visa – Granted to business owners/shareholders. Renewable every 2–3 years.
Golden Visa – For large investors (AED 2M real estate, AED 2M deposit, or qualifying business investment).
Employment Visa – As General Manager or key staff.

Timeline

Free Zone: 5–15 working days after document readiness.
Mainland: 10–20 working days depending on activity.
Bank Account: 2–6 weeks.

Extended FAQ

Can I own 100% of my company?
Yes, in most Free Zones and many Mainland activities (post-2021 law changes).

What is the minimum share capital?
Varies—AED 1,000 to AED 300,000 depending on Free Zone, often no deposit required.

Do I have to be in UAE to open a company?
For some Free Zones, you can set up remotely. Bank KYC often requires presence.

Start your business abroad

Discover the most popular countries for business setup and explore your options for each. SiliconMappers assists you in every step of your move anywhere.

Bangladesh

Canada

Malaysia

United Arab Emirates

FAQ

Still need help? Contact us to get advices and answers from the SiliconMappers team.

Bangladesh - Can foreigners own 100%?

Bangladesh - Is paid-up capital mandatory?

Bangladesh - What are the annual compliance requirements?

Canada - Do I need a Canadian resident director?

Canada - Can I incorporate without visiting Canada?

Canada - Can business setup lead to PR?

UAE - Can I own 100% of my company?

UAE - What is the minimum share capital?

UAE - Do I have to be in UAE to open a company?

Malaysia - Do I need a local director?

Malaysia - Is Labuan tax-free?

Malaysia - Can foreigners own 100%?