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Certificate of Incorporation in the UAE – Importance and How to Get One

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When it comes to setting up a business outside of your home country, there is no better place to establish yourself other than in the UAE. In this lucrative region, business owners will find themselves in a landscape that provides several opportunities, potential for exponential growth and a blend of markets found nowhere else on earth. However, the first step is to secure your Certificate of Incorporation. This blog seeks to outline everything you need to know about this certificate, so keep reading as we explain what it is, why it is important and how you can secure one.

What Is It?

Just like human beings who have their birth certificates, businesses do as well in the form of a certificate of incorporation. By having this document in hand, it will prove that your company is duly registered in the UAE. It is issued either by the relevant Free Zone or Mainland authority, depending on where your business is registered.

This document will detail all the vital details about your business including: 

  • Company’s name
  • Date of incorporation
  • Company structure
  • Names of the business owners and shareholders
  • The address of your business

Why is It Important?




Having a Certificate of Incorporation means that in the eyes of the UAE Government, your business is one that is legitimate. Here are some key reasons why a Certificate of Incorporation is a must-have:

1- Shows that you are above the board

This document shows that your company is a legally registered entity. It also shows that you are compliant with the UAE’s business regulations. Without this document, any business activities carried out are considered illegal and you could face severe penalties.

2- Opens the doors to UAE Banks

Banks in the UAE are very strict about having all the paperwork in order. If you want to open a corporate bank account, the Certificate of Incorporation is a must have as you will not be able to open one without it. Having a Certificate of Incorporation means that you will be able to access financial services like business loans, corporate banking facilities, or even accept payments through official channels.

3- Fosters Better Business Relationships

A part of doing business includes working together with other companies. For example, if you need to enter into contracts with other entities, your Certificate of Incorporation is essential. It will show the other businesses that your company is legit, building trust and opening doors to partnerships and collaborations.

4- Allows for Tax Compliance

The UAE does not have income tax, but some businesses must register for VAT and other corporate taxes. Without a Certificate of Incorporation, you won’t be able to register for these types of taxes. In other words, you will not be compliant with the tax landscape of UAE without a Certificate of Incorporation.

5- Helps with Visa Processing

Business owners must produce their Certificate of Incorporation to apply for certain types of visas for themselves and their staff. It is important to note that in the UAE, visa rules are linked to your business operations.

How do I Get a Certificate of Incorporation in the UAE?

Now that you understand why a Certificate of Incorporation is important, we will soon dive into the required steps you need to follow to secure one. While the process is straightforward, it will vary slightly depending on whether you’re setting up a business in Mainland or in a Free Zone.

1- Select a Business Structure

First, decide on your business structure. The UAE has several structures that your business can work within.

Limited Liability Company (LLC) – This would be a good choice if you are setting up on the mainland.

Sole Proprietorship – Better suited for smaller, one-person businesses.

Branch Office – For companies that need to expand their presence in the UAE without setting up a separate legal entity.

Free Zone Company – Perfect for foreign investors as it allows for 100% foreign ownership and tax benefits.

2- Choose Your Trade Name

When it comes to choosing your trade name, make sure that it follows the guidelines set by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the Free Zone authority. You must avoid:

  • Offensive language
  • Similarities or references to names of political groups
  • Similarities or references to names of religious groups

Once you have decided on a name, you can reserve it through the relevant authority.

3- Prepare Your Documents

While the documents needed to secure your Certificate of Incorporation can vary depending on where you have set up the business, the list below is a general outline of what you need:

  • Copy of shareholder passports
  • Copy of the director passports
  • Proof of residential address for the shareholders
  • A Memorandum of Association
  • Initial approval from the concerned authorities for your business activity
  • Business plan (Some Free Zones may ask for one, if you’re engaging in specific industries like finance or education.

4- Submit Your Application

After you have all the required documents, submit your application to the relevant authority. This can be done online or in person. If you are a mainland company, you’ll need to submit them to the DED. In the case of a freezone, make the submission to the relevant free zone authority. 

5- Pay the Fees

There are registration fees that you need to pay as part of the process. While Free Zone fees are higher, you will have the added benefits of 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions.

6- Receive Your Certificate

Once you have completed the application process and you get the approval, you will receive your Certificate of Incorporation. Free Zone companies can expect to get the certificate in a few days. For Mainland entities, the process may take longer as it will be based on the type of business and whether it is subject to other approvals.

How can SetHub help?

Now that you have come to the end of this blog, we would like to think that this process that once seemed overwhelming, may be a little easier to swallow as all it takes is the right guidance to put you on track. However, if you have any specific questions about your certificate of incorporation and would like to talk to an expert, reach out to us at SetHub. Over the years, we have handled hundreds of certificate of incorporation cases. From large international clients to small businesses, we are well versed in all of your unique intricacies. From company registration to helping you understand the business landscape in the UAE, we are here to help! Schedule a call with us now and hear back within just one business hour.