Any entrepreneur wishing to open or expand a business in the UAE must go through a number of legally required procedures. Here are the main ones:
- Choice of the place of incorporation: mainland or FEZ.
- Choosing the type of company.
- Choosing the company name and its registration.
- Choosing and renting an office.
- Obtaining a license.
- Obtaining a visa.
- Registration with customs.
- Opening a bank account.
Choosing a Place of Business Registration in the UAEFirst of all, the businessman must decide on the place of registration of the company: in the FEZ or on the mainland. There are many nuances to consider when making this choice, so it is not superfluous to seek professional advice from experts.
Registration on the Mainland
- The possibility to enter the UAE market quickly;
- The ability to obtain different types of licenses (general trade and e-commerce) to conduct both offline and online business;
- Access to a wide range of offices;
- Ability to hire a large number of employees;
- Access to a large number of warehousing facilities.
Registration in a free economic zone:
- 100% foreign ownership of the company;
- Full repatriation of profits;
- Ability to sell goods online outside the UAE;
- Lower cost of maintaining the company;
- Simplified customs clearance.
Choice of company type
Foreign entrepreneurs can choose from the following options:
- LTD;
- Branch of a foreign company;
- Representative Office;
- General Partnership.
Choosing a Business Name
You must choose a unique and memorable name that has not been used before. It is advisable to choose several options in case the name you choose turns out to be taken. It is not allowed to use offensive words in the name.
Choosing and renting office space
E-commerce entrepreneurs should have a physical office, but this is optional.