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Establishing a company in the Emirates

Opening a commercial register in Dubai

٢٠ أبريل Establishing a company in the Emirates

In the growing business world in the Emirates, establishing a company in the Emirates is an important strategic step that requires good study and careful plans to ensure its success. The UAE is characterized by a developed and encouraging investment environment that attracts investors from all over the world.

In this article, we will take an overview of the process of setting up a company in the UAE , from choosing the appropriate company type and setting goals to completing the necessary legal and administrative procedures. We will also discuss the importance of good planning and consulting experts, such as Itqan Company, which provides support and advice to investors to successfully establish and operate the company effectively.

In the dynamic business world of the UAE, establishing a company requires careful planning and knowledge of legal and administrative procedures. Itqan Company is an important partner in this process, as it provides specialized advisory services that facilitate the procedures for establishing companies in the Emirates and provides the necessary support to investors throughout this process.

In this article, we will take an overview of the process of setting up a company in the UAE with Itqan Company. We will review the main steps for establishing a company, from choosing the type of company and determining the permitted business activities, all the way to completing the legal procedures and official registration. We will also discuss the role of Itqan Company in helping investors overcome challenges and achieve the success of their business operations in the thriving UAE market.

Establishing a company in the Emirates
Establishing a company in the Emirates

Establishing a company in the Emirates

Establishing a company in the UAE is a great strategic move to take advantage of the dynamic business environment and economic opportunities available in the country. Here are the general steps for setting up a company in the UAE:

  1. Planning and research: Study the labor market in the Emirates and determine the type of company you want to establish and the sector you target. Analyze the competition and identify the unique opportunities your company can offer.
  2. Choosing the legal type of company: In the UAE, there are two main types of companies that you can create, which are a local company (Onshore) and an off-campus company (Offshore). Select the most appropriate type based on your needs and business requirements.
  3. Location selection: Select the geographical area in which you would like to establish your company, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah. Each emirate has laws and procedures that may vary slightly, so be sure to check local regulations and requirements.
  4. Registration and licenses: Register your company and obtain the necessary licenses from the relevant government agencies. You may need the assistance of an attorney or legal advisor to guide you through this process and ensure compliance with local laws.
  5. Infrastructure and offices: Determine a location for your company’s headquarters and ensure the necessary infrastructure is available, such as communications, internet and other equipment.
  6. Employment and Visas: Make sure you meet the employment and work visa requirements for your employees. You may need to hire an agent to obtain visas and utilize local employment services.
  7. Tax Compliance and Accounting: Ensure that your company complies with the UAE tax and accounting laws. You may need to hire a local accountant to manage your accounts and provide regular financial reports.
  8. Starting Business: After obtaining all the necessary licenses and permits, you can start working in your company and implement your follow-up business strategies.

The cost of establishing a company in the Emirates

The cost of setting up a company in the UAE may vary greatly based on several factors, including the type of company, the region in which the company is established, and additional services and requirements that the company may need. However, the basic costs that you may incur when setting up a company in the UAE can be summarized as follows:

  • Registration and license fees: These fees include basic registration costs and licensing fees that are paid to the relevant authorities, such as the Department of Economic Development or the Economic Affairs Authority.
  • Required Capital: In some cases, establishing a company in the UAE may require specifying a certain capital, and this can affect the overall cost of the company.
  • Consultation and Legal Assistance Fees: You may need to consult a lawyer or legal advisor to assist with the process of setting up the company and ensuring legal compliance, and this may incur an additional cost.
  • Rent and office costs: If a company needs an office or work space, there will be rental costs for the office and costs to furnish and equip the office.
  • Insurance costs: The company may need an insurance certificate to cover civil liability, and this may have a cost.
  • Additional services fees: There may be additional fees for additional services such as opening a bank account or translating documents.

Licenses to establish a company in the Emirates

Obtaining the necessary licenses to establish a company in the Emirates is a basic and necessary step. The licenses required vary based on the type of company and the business activity it will undertake. However, some of the common licenses you may need to set up a company in the UAE can be summarized as follows:

  1. Commercial activity license: This license relates to determining the company’s main commercial activity, and must be obtained from the relevant government agency such as the Department of Economic Development or the Economic Affairs Authority.
  2. Building and Urban Planning License: If you plan to build or rent an office or commercial building, you may need to obtain a license from the local municipality.
  3. Advertising license: If you intend to conduct an advertising campaign or place commercial banners for your company, you may need an advertising license from the relevant authorities.
  4. Environment, Health and Safety Licence: This license may be required if you work in sectors that require compliance with environmental, health and safety standards.
  5. Professional License: A professional license may be required for some special professional activities such as medicine, law, and engineering.
  6. Tourism and Hospitality License: If you work in the tourism and hospitality sector, you may need a special license from the emirate’s Tourism and Culture Authority.

Types of companies that can be established in the Emirates

In the UAE, you can establish different types of companies based on your needs and the type of business you want to engage in. The most prominent types of companies that can be created are:

  1. Limited Liability Company (LLC) : It is considered one of the most common types of companies, where the partners’ liability is limited to the amount of their shares in the capital. It can be owned by residents or international investors, but a 51% local partner is required if the company operates outside the free zones.
  2. Public Joint Stock Company : A company whose shares are traded on financial markets and can be owned by a wide range of investors. Its capital is divided into tradable shares.
  3. Private Joint Stock Company : Similar to a public joint stock company, but it does not offer its shares to the public. It requires fewer partners and has relatively lower capital requirements.
  4. Sole Proprietorship : Owned by one individual, where the person is fully responsible for all obligations and debts. It can be suitable for small businesses.
  5. Partnership : It consists of two or more partners who share responsibility, profit and loss. Each partner is responsible for the company’s debts.
  6. Branch Office : It is considered an extension of the parent company located outside the Emirates. It can be wholly owned by a foreign company and does not need a local partner.
  7. A limited liability company of a commercial nature (Commercial LLC) : aims to carry out a specific commercial activity, and differs from limited liability companies in some aspects related to licenses and commercial activities.
  8. International Company : It issues an international license under which it can operate in various countries, but it needs to fulfill certain conditions by local authorities.

The requirements for establishing each type of company vary depending on the business activity and geographic location, so it is necessary to use local experts or legal consultants to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.

 

Documents for establishing a company in the Emirates

The documents required to establish a company in the UAE may vary slightly depending on the type of company and the region in which it will be established. However, there is a general list of documents that are usually required in the company creation process:

  • Registration Application Form: You must fill out and sign the Company Registration Application Form, which specifies basic details such as the company name, type and business activity.
  • Copy of passport: A copy of the passport must be provided to partners or major shareholders in the company.
  • Personal photos: Some government agencies may require personal photos of partners or shareholders.
  • Partners or shareholders contract: A partnership contract (for companies owned by partners) or a shareholding contract (for joint-stock companies) must be prepared and signed by all parties.
  • Memorandum of Association: The company’s incorporation document must be prepared and signed by all partners or shareholders.
  • Articles of Association document: The bylaws document that defines the rules and procedures for managing the company must be prepared and signed by all parties.
  • Certificate of non-objection: It may be necessary to obtain a certificate from government agencies proving that there is no objection to the use of the company’s proposed trade name.
  • Authorization letter: In the case of authorized directors or employees, a letter of authorization proving their suitability to legally represent the company may be required.
  • Customer contracts or master contracts: Some government agencies may require customer contracts or master contracts that explain the company’s activity and its relationship with customers and suppliers.
  • Insurance Certificate: Some government agencies may require an insurance certificate proving the company’s civil liability coverage.

 

Economy in the Emirates
Economy in the Emirates

What are the advantages of establishing a company in the Emirates?

Establishing a company in Dubai provides many advantages and benefits to investors, including:

  1. Advanced investment environment: The UAE enjoys an advanced investment environment characterized by political and economic stability, and modern and advanced legislation that supports investment and encourages innovation and economic growth.
  2. A large and diverse market: The UAE provides a large and diverse market, where companies can operate and expand their business to reach customers in the UAE and other regions in the Middle East and North Africa.
  3. Strategic location: The UAE occupies a strategic location on the world map, making it an important center for global trade, transportation and logistics.
  4. Advanced infrastructure: The UAE provides advanced infrastructure including airports, ports, roads and communications, making it easier for companies to manage their business effectively and facilitate distribution and marketing.
  5. Free zones and special economic zones: The UAE offers a variety of free zones and special economic zones that provide an improved investment environment and flexibility in regulations and controls.
  6. Not imposing income taxes: The UAE does not impose income taxes on companies in most sectors, which makes it an attractive destination for companies wishing to achieve profitability.
  7. Civil Law: The legal system in the UAE is independent and transparent, and relies on civil laws that provide a reliable legal environment for companies.

This article concludes by praising the opportunities for establishing a company in the Emirates in cooperation with Itqan Company. Itqan Company is considered a strong and reliable partner in your journey to create a successful company in the Emirates, as it provides comprehensive services and extensive experience in the field of establishment and investment in the country. With Itqan, you will benefit from a wide range of services that include providing strategic advice, financial planning, and managing legal and administrative operations. The company will help you determine the appropriate legal type for your company and guide you through the registration process and obtaining the necessary licenses. Using Itqan’s experience and comprehensive study of the local market, you will be able to identify optimal investment opportunities and implement successful strategies for your company’s success. The company will provide support in all aspects of setting up a company, from registration to managing day-to-day operations and achieving sustainable growth.