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.