Dubai is genuinely known as a place full of opportunity and a haven for dreamers. It is a metropolis that, in a short period of time, sprang from peaceful, sandy shoreline to lofty heights. It is also a city that serves as an example of how innovation and the proper vision can open the door to a better future. Furthermore, it is a city that is already a prominent player on the global business scene and is well-positioned to define the digital future that the entire world will experience. As a result, it is not surprising that the city attracts companies from all over the world. Anyone trying to expand their company and keep up with the pace of the world’s constant change is currently considering Dubai as their future corporate headquarters.
Why Should You Start a Business in Dubai?
Numerous compelling factors account for the influx of thousands of business owners to Dubai from around the world.
- The social, economic, and transportation infrastructure in Dubai is incredibly well-developed, and it includes, but is not limited to, high-end office and residential space, reliable transportation, and an advanced financial and service sector.
- It is not surprising that the business-friendly tax rules of Dubai are the reason why so many foreigners choose to open businesses there. With zero corporate tax, low import taxes, 100% foreign ownership, and other favourable policies, the UAE government is prepared to embrace creative firms.
- The visa policy in Dubai is incredibly accommodating to foreigners. You may swiftly obtain a residency visa for yourself, your family, and your employees if you establish your business in one of Dubai’s free zones.
- With over 100 international trade fairs held each year, Dubai, one of the leading business centres, has experienced tremendous trade growth. By taking part in these fairs, Dubai-based businesses can network with international corporations and explore more options without having to compromise on daily operations.
How To Set Up A Business IN Dubai – Business Setup Process
Entrepreneurs and experienced professionals who want to launch a firm have Dubai as a suitable alternative. However, the issue of how to proceed still exists for a new player in the market. The following steps would explain the procedure on how to start a business in Dubai.
Choose An Industry
Which free zones you can or should establish your firm in may depend on the nature of your industry. For instance, certain free zones only permit specific categories of activity, like media, healthcare, or transportation, and despite the limitations, it is frequently a good idea to be near other companies operating in the same industry. Take a look at the travel options as well. You should probably pick one of the free zones located close to an airport or port if your company depends substantially on import and export. There are more than 2,100 business activities to choose from, all of which may be found in the commercial, professional, industrial, and tourism sectors. The DED website has the complete list available.
Choose A Location
In order to incorporate a firm, the Emirate of Dubai offers alternatives in the regions of Mainland, Offshore, and Free Zones. You must precisely choose the jurisdiction in which you wish to conduct business. Free zones are those that conduct business outside of the UAE or on foreign markets. Additionally, business owners operating in the free zone can do business with organisations based there. There are many benefits to starting a business in the Dubai Free Zone, including the ability to keep 100% of the ownership and the absence of the requirement that any executives be UAE citizens. On the other hand, if a company owner wants to establish roots in the mainland, it indicates they want to access the local market and conduct business either inside or outside of the UAE.
Choose A Company Name
It’s critical that your company name adheres to the stringent naming conventions in the UAE. Names with foul language, those that can be interpreted as insulting to religion, those that allude to political organisations or the mafia, and others, are prohibited. If the firm will be named after a specific person, you must demonstrate that person is a shareholder or partner in the business (no initials or abbreviations are permitted).
Complete The Incorporation Paperwork
You will need to fill out an application for the chosen business name and activity, which you will then submit to the appropriate government agencies together with copies of shareholders’ passports. A business plan or Non-Objection Certificate (NOC), which is a letter from your present sponsor certifying that you are permitted to setup business in UAE, may be needed in some free zones. Companies based in the mainland will need to meet specific capital criteria, which must be specified out in a memorandum of association.
Submission Of Documents
For registration of your business activity and trade name and to submit the necessary paperwork, you must get in touch with the Department of Economic Development of your preferred emirate. On the website of the UAE government, under Information and Services, you can find links to the relevant offices.
Apply For A Licence
The government will provide you a company licence once it has processed your application. You normally only need a few common documents, such as a filled out application form, copies of shareholder passports, and the like, regardless of where the establishment will be. You might also be asked to submit a business plan in some free zones.
Open A Bank Account
You will get all the necessary papers to open your business bank account immediately your paperwork has been returned. In addition to well-known international banks like HSBC, Citibank, and Barclays, the UAE is home to numerous local and foreign banks, including Emirates NBD, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, and the Commercial Bank of Dubai.
Conclusion
Although it may seem like a lengthy process, properly setting up your firm in Dubai only requires a few weeks. As a foreigner, you might not be fully familiar with Dubai’s norms and regulations; as a result, you need to be sure to hire someone with experience who can guide you through the steps on how to set up a business in Dubai.