Setting up a new business in the UAE has become an attractive option for entrepreneurs like you globally. With its business-friendly regulations, strategic location and tax intensives the UAE offers one of the best environments for startups and established companies alike. Whether you are looking to start a mainland free zone or offshore company, understanding the legal framework costs and required documents is really important.  In this guide you can learn everything about how to set up a business in the UAE.

Why start a business in the UAE?

The UAE is a global business hub with plenty of benefits for investors like you. Many business sectors enjoy tax exemptions. You are allowed in free zones and select mainland business. Fast track on the registration with minimum paperwork. It is a strategic location between Europe, Asia and Africa. You can expect advanced transport banking and communication systems.

Choose your business activity

The first step that you need to do is deciding on the business activity. The UAE government has a list of approved activities and your choice will determine your license type, business location and regulations required. Some of the most prominent business activities include trading and ecommerce professional services and manufacturing and industrial.

Choose a business structure

The UAE offers three main types of business setups. Mainland business is where you can operate anywhere in the UAE and internationally. It’s perfect for retail construction and professional service. You can own 100% in certain sectors as a foreigner. Furthermore you can also go for free zone business where you get 100% foreign ownership tax free benefits and easy visa processing. In offshore business you don’t get any physical office space. It is perfect for holding companies, asset protection and international trade. You cannot conduct business within the UAE.

Select A trade name

Your business name must be unique and follow all the UAE naming requirements. It must not contain offensive language or religious terms. Furthermore your name must reflect your business activity.

Get initial approvals and register your business

It’s vital for you to get initial approval from these on authority and prepare legal documents. At the same time, you must sign lease agreements if required. Some of the most important documents that you must provide include passport copies of shareholders and directors business activity details, trade name reservation certificate and office lease agreement if applicable.

Obtain a business license

Depending on your business activity you need some licenses like commercial license for trading retail or general business activities. You also need a professional license for consultancy legal or medical services. Industrial license is very important for manufacturing production and industrial.

Open a corporate bank account

Once your business is legally registered it is very important for you to open a registered bank account in the UAE. The documents that you  will require include business license and trade name certificate passport copies of the shareholders and company incorporation documents.

Apply for visa

As a business owner you need to have residency visas to live and work in the UAE. Investor visa is your best bet if you are a business owner or a shareholder. If you are a company employee then you need an employment visa. Dependent visa is a must for your dependents family members.

Set up your business operations

With your license and bank account ready it’s time for you to launch and grow your business. You need to set up the office if required and hire employees and register for labor permits. Next you need to build your website and digital presence and market your business and acquire customers.

Starting a business in the UAE is a very profitable and strategic move for entrepreneurs like you. Whether you’re a small startup or a global enterprise the low tax environment, investor friendly policies and world class infrastructure in the UAE make it an ideal destination. By following the step by step guide you can ensure a smooth set up and start growing your company in one of the most dynamic markets of the world.