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Company Setup in the UAE
Start, expand and grow your business in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE
With ADAM Global
ADAM Global is a name trusted since 2002 for Companies like yours from all over the world to set up, grow and expand their business in the Middle East and specifically the United Arab Emirates. We put your ambitions at the center of everything we do and hold your hand throughout your business journey.
You are wondering How to start a business in the United Arab Emirates? Browse through these quick links on this page to find out more on company set up in the UAE.
Quick Facts about the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The United Arab Emirates is a country situated on the end of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering the states of Saudi Arabia and Oman as well as sharing a maritime border with Qatar and Iran.
The country is a federation of the seven emirates or cities and constitutes of Abu Dhabi (the capital), Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaima, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain
The UAE enjoys a quite strategic location, substantial financial reserves, sizeable sovereign wealth fund, promising investor home economies as well as consistent government spending.
Foreign Direct investments contribute to a stable and progressive economy with the focus of the government being primarily on economic diversification.
What are the benefits of starting or expanding a business in the UAE?
Long Term Value
UAE is ranked #1 regionally & #7 globally in terms of long term value creation of their resources among 62 other countries.
Competitiveness
UAE’s Competitiveness is ranked # 1 worldwide across 23 indicators, including Government Decision and Global Talent.
Ease of Doing Business
UAE is ranked 1st in the Arab World and 11th internationally in the “Ease of Doing Business Report” published by World Bank that evaluated 190 countries across several factors.
Stable Economy
The UAE has a robust economic outlook moving away from the oil-driven economy by diversifying its income resources via the Vision 2021 strategy set forth by the ruler.
Government Spending & Support
The UAE has injected over 300 Billion AED to encourage economic growth via innovation initiatives. So far, over 100 Initiatives are ongoing, all promoting a versatile digital economy.
Excellent Arbitration System
The UAE laws outline the rights of every citizen and promote equality regardless of race, religion, gender, nationality or social position. It also has well-defined laws to protect the interest of business owners and their businesses
Safety & Security
The UAE is known to be one of the safest and most secure countries in the world. In an official survey conducted recently, over 96.1 % of citizens said they feel safe and secure in the country.
The Business Landscape
What are the jurisdictions in the UAE for Company Setup?
The United Arab Emirates corporate law is responsible for governance, and financial regulation for any new business in the UAE. There is a separate corporate code for each emirate. You can set up your company in any one of the following emirates.
1. Abu Dhabi Company Setup
2. Dubai Company Setup
3. Sharjah Company Setup
4. Ras Al Khaimah Company Setup
5. Ajman Company Setup
6. Fujairah Company Setup
7. Umm Ul Quwain Company Setup
Types of Company Setup in the UAE
Depending on the activity and purpose of the company, you can setup your company in any of the following jurisdiction in the United Arab Emirates
What are the types of trade licence for Company Setup in the UAE?
Below are some of the most common type of trade licence to setup a company
Commercial Licence
Covers trade and commercial activity.
Professional Licence
Covers all kind of professional services.
Industrial Licence
Covers large-scale industrial activities such as manufacturing and packaging.
E-Commerce Licence
For online trading and e-commerce activity.
Freelance Permit
In essence, the freelance permit is not a licence but a legal permit that allows individuals and employees of UAE based companies to do freelancing work.
What are the legal forms of business for Company Setup in the UAE?
There are eight types of legal entities in the UAE to start a business. Once you have discussed with your consultant the purpose of your company and the type of business activity
Sole Proprietorship
This type of company is the simplest form of company setup, and the Foreign Investor or Entrepreneur is the sole owner of the company. 100 % Liability is on the sole owner.
Limited Liability Company
In the UAE, a limited liability company also is known as LLC company is a company in which a min of 1 and max of 50 shareholders can be appointed. The Liabilities are limited to the shareholder’s capital share.
Civil Company
Civil Companies in the UAE are formed for Doctors, Engineers, Accountants and Lawyers. Although this type of company is 100 % wholly owned by the professional partner, a UAE Local Service Agent is usually appointed.
Private Shareholding Company
In UAE, a Private shareholding company is 51% owned by UAE nationals appointed as directors and chairman. The public has no access to shares of the company and the min share capital required is 2 Million AED with a min of 3 Shareholders. It protects the interest of the shareholders without risking being overtaking by large public corporations.
Branch of Foreign Company
Branch office carries the same legal identity as that of the parent company and conducts the same type of business as that of the parent company. There are certain restrictions involved in terms of trading activity. Requires Local Service Agent.
Representative Office in the UAE
Unlike a branch office, a representative office only promotes the activity of the parent companies, taking order and projects to be executed by the parent company. The Representative office only acts as a liaising office and is incorporated for increased market visibility. Requires Local Service Agent.
The Process of Company Setup in the UAE
Costs: What is the general price for starting or setting up a company in UAE?
The cost will ultimately depend on various factors:
- The Type of Business and business activities
- The preferred Emirate for incorporation
- The Legal Entity of the company
- Number of Visas required
UAE Company Setup Cost Comparison Chart
Values are based only on average estimates and should not be considered as a final legally binding cost.We will be able to provide you an accurate quote; Please discuss your specific needs with our consultants. There are many questions that will enable us to determine the right type of business and helping you save cost.
The Chart is only intended for general educational purposes The cost only includes average government fees and exclude service and other administrative costs
| Mainland | Freezone | Offshore | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | |||
| Abu Dhabi | n/a | ||
| Sharjah | n/a | ||
| Ajman | |||
| Fujairah | n/a | ||
| Ras Al Khaimah | |||
| Umm Al Quwain | n/a | ||
| Local Sponsor Fee | n/a | ||
| Local Service Agent | n/a | ||
| Corporate Sponsorship | Starting AED25,00 | n/a | |
| Royal Sponsorship | Starting AED 0.5 M-1M | n/a | |
| Can rent office space? | No | No | No |
How to start or register your Company in the UAE
At ADAM Global, we guide you and hold your hand through each step of your business journey. Although the process is quite detailed, below is an 8 Step Process highlighting the essential incorporation procedure for your company formation in the UAE with our highly experienced staff.
1
STEP
Select the right type and legal form of business
2
STEP
Submit all documents
3
STEP
We file an application
4
STEP
We get approval for company name & activity
5
STEP
Signature on the incorporation documents
6
STEP
Submission to Registrar of a relevant authority
7
STEP
You will be notified when your company is approved
8
STEP
Open Corporate Bank Account. We can assist
How Can ADAM Global Assist me in Company Formation in the UAE?
ADAM Global is a pioneering Consultancy and Business Service company that began its journey dating back to 2002. Our experts and advisors are all highly experienced consultants who have assisted clients from all over the world to start and expand their business in the United Arab Emirates.
We do not simply assist in the incorporation of business but hold your hand throughout your business journey. We offer ;
- Complimentary advise and bespoke consultancy with a highly experienced business advisor
- Guidance and assistance to select the type of business, office location and/or Flexi desks
- Government Liaising to take care of your legal requirements to incorporate a company in the UAE. Our outstanding reputation with local authorities ensures the process is efficient
- Registered Office with PO Box
- A registered agent with various Freezones
- Preparation of complete documents and business plans
- Preparation of registration forms
- Preparation of Incorporation certificate
- Assisting in opening a bank account
- Ongoing support locally as well as internationally to kickstart or grow your business
Avail attractive offshore packages ! Apply now for a free consultation
Frequently Asked Questions on Company Formation in UAE
You have more question about company setup in the UAE. Browse through this section to get a quick overview or schedule a consultation with an expert business advisor. You can also use our chat facility to speak to our advisors right now.
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