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UAE Business Setup Guide

An Overview

All You Need to Know About Setting Up and Operating a Business in the UAE

Starting a business in the UAE can be a rewarding experience, given its strategic location, business-friendly regulations, and thriving economy. This guide provides comprehensive information to help you navigate the process of setting up and operating your business in the UAE.

Ten Things to Remember Before Starting Your Business in the UAE

Commit

Ensure you have the time, focus, and resources to get your business moving.

Communicate Your USP

Articulate your unique selling points clearly to stand out in the market.

Set Your Goals

Define clear and realistic goals to drive your business growth.

Know Your Market

Conduct market research to understand your audience and competitors.

Pick a Startup Environment

Decide between working from home, renting an office, or using a coworking space.

Ask for Help

Identify your weak areas and seek assistance accordingly.

Explore Funding Options

Research suitable funding options like VC, loans, grants, and sponsorship.

Plan Beyond Stage One

Have a growth plan to ensure long-term stability.

Build the Right Team

Hire the right people to support your growing business.

Don’t Make Excuses

If you’re ready, take the plunge and start your business.

Mainland | Free Zone | Offshore

Understanding the different setup options

Explore the various business setup options in the UAE, including Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore. Each offers unique benefits for conducting local and international business, from government contract eligibility to tax exemptions.

Mainland

. Freedom to trade across the UAE
. Ability to tender bids for government contracts
. Greater scope for business activities
. Full foreign ownership

Free Zone

. Freedom to trade across the UAE
. Ability to tender bids for government contracts
. Greater scope for business activities
. Full foreign ownership

Offshore

. Greater financial privacy and asset protection
. Easy incorporation and flexible corporate structure
. Reduced tax burden

Ten Things to Remember Before Starting Your Business in the UAE

Explore the various legal structures to find the best fit for your UAE business setup.

Discover the different legal structures available for setting up your business in the UAE, including sole proprietorships, LLCs, and joint ventures. Each structure offers unique advantages to suit your specific business needs and goals.

Sole
Proprietorship

One shareholder with full control and share of profits.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Composed of 2-50 shareholders, with 100% foreign ownership allowed for certain activities.

Limited
Partnership

Includes general and limited partners, with specific roles and liabilities.

Joint
Venture

Agreement between natural persons or legal entities for specific objectives.

Freelancer

Registration in certain industries such as arts, education, media, and tech.

Private Shareholding Company

Formed by at least three shareholders with a capital minimum of AED 2,000,000.

Public Shareholding Company

Corporate entity with a capital minimum of AED 10,000,000, shares transferable.

Free Zone Company

Incorporated within special economic zones, benefiting from various exemptions.

Branch Office

Extension of a parent company, free to trade independently but not a separate legal entity.

Timelines, Steps, and Documents Required

Setting up a business in the UAE involves a straightforward process with clear timelines and required documentation. This section guides you through the essential steps, from choosing your setup and business structure to submitting your license application and opening a bank account.

The Process

01

Choose the Right Setup Option

Determine the best setup for your business needs.

02

Choose a Business Structure

Select the appropriate legal structure for your business.

03

Choose a Company Name

Ensure the name complies with UAE naming conventions.

04

License
Application

Apply directly to the DED or relevant free zone authority.

05

Get a Physical Space (if Needed)

Rent or lease an appropriate space for your business.

06

Open a Bank Account

Research and select the best bank for your business needs.

Bank Account Opening

Your business finances are the root of your success tree !

Bank Account

Managing a business’s finances is tricky and not always given due attention. But finance is the backbone of every business, so getting it right is crucial.

As part of Set Hub’s Financial Support Services, we offer our license holders the option to select financial services from our partners- local banks, international banks, exchange houses, fintech service providers and receive documentation assistance from our affiliates in relation to their business bank accounts.

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Open bank account in just 4 steps

Registration:

Our dedicated team will assist you in starting your application with the bank.

Document upload:

We will upload the required documents to the bank to process your application.

Compliance:

Your application will undergo a thorough screening and review by the bank's compliance department.

Account Activation:

Once approved, your bank account will be activated within 24 hours. Additionally, an Account Cheque Book and Debit Card will be promptly issued for your convenience.

Banking

Required Documents

  1. Emirates ID of all shareholders
  2. Other documents as per bank request.
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Coworking and Office Spaces

Spaces that will make thrive

Finding the right workspace is crucial for your business success in the UAE. You can choose from various options, including coworking spaces, traditional office spaces, serviced offices, and virtual offices.

Co-working
Spaces

Ideal for startups and freelancers, these shared workspaces offer amenities such as desks, Wi-Fi, reception cover, and meeting rooms. Popular providers include WeWork, The Executive Lounge, and The Co-Work.

Traditional Office Spaces

These are standalone buildings or units available for long-term lease, typically with a minimum lease of one year, providing a permanent base for your operations.

Serviced
Offices

Fully furnished and equipped offices available on a flexible basis, often with the option to rent by the hour, day, or month. They include additional services like reception and mail handling.

Virtual
Offices

Offer services such as mail handling, call forwarding, and address use without the need for a physical office. Ideal for businesses that require a professional address without a full-time office.

Connect with our team

Connect with our sales experts to start your business in dubai.