Starting a company in Dubai is not as difficult as it may seem. In fact, the process requires less paperwork and can be completed from anywhere with internet access. For those who are new to the region, this article will provide information on what documents are needed for company registration in Dubai, how to find a registered agent, and tips for registering an LLC or partnership.
The business environment in Dubai is one of the most sophisticated and stable in the world so choosing to start your business there has its benefits. The city boasts some of the best facilities and technology available which will allow you to focus on expansion rather than worrying about running day-to-day operations – all while enjoying lower taxes than many other countries! There’s no better time than no tow start your company in Dubai.
Company Name Registration in Dubai
Once you have decided that forming a company is the best option for your business, the next step is choosing what type of structure to register. There are dozens of options to choose from when forming your company, but all businesses must be registered as one of the following:
- Local Company (L.C.) which is registered under the Ministry of Finance
- LLC, a Limited Liability Company with a minimum of two shareholders and one director
- Partnership or Branch office
The steps required to complete company registration in Dubai will vary slightly depending on what type of business structure you choose to register.
Note: branch offices cannot receive any income and only exist to manage UAE operations for another company in the same group. There must be a commercial presence elsewhere for this type of company registration in Dubai. This will be discussed further below’s article under Branch Offices .
Choosing a Company Name
Once you have decided on the type of company to register, it is time to choose a name. The name must include one of the following terms:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- General Trading Company (GTC) for trading companies
- Professional Consulting Company (PCC) for consulting companies
- Free Zone Company (FZC) for those registered in a Free Zone Area
- Industrial Company (IC) and Agricultural and Marine Resources Development Company (AMD).
The first two letters of the name will indicate what industry the company is from.
For example, a trading company would be called “Kamel” if it were an LLC and “Al Kamel General Trading Company” if registered as a GTC. Both names meet the requirements listed above for company registration in Dubai.
How to Find a Registered Agent in Dubai
The next step to start up a company in Dubai is to find a registered agent. Dubai has many legal and financial consultants who can help you through the process, one of which should be your registered agent – someone licensed by the government to complete company formation on your behalf.
The first search for a registered agents should be done without any fees – just use an internet search engine to look for “Registration Agents in Dubai”. You will have a long list of companies, so it is best to ask for recommendations from family or friends who have previously registered a company. When contacting each agency, you should be looking for the following:
- How many times they can assist with registration (some may only be able to provide assistance once)
- Do they have any specializations (i.e. only FZ companies or certain industry expertise)
- How long do they usually take to complete registration?
The next step is to choose the agency that you want to help you register your company in Dubai. Fees can vary depending on several factors, but generally you should be able to find an agency who will complete the process for between AED 7000 (US$1,925) and AED 15000 (US$4000).
Agency services in Dubai usually include:
- Registration of the company name
- Securing business licenses
- File annual reports with the Department of Commerce
- Secure trade license if applicable
- Establish local bank accounts.
During the company registration process, your registered agent will act on your behalf and advise you of any documents that are required. Depending on the type of company that you choose to register, all of these services can be completed in just a few days.
If you plan to establish your business outside Dubai but have trade relations with Dubai companies, then it is possible to form a branch office instead of registering an LLC or GTC in the UAE. All other forms of companies must be registered as a branch.
