Business setup guide

From idea to a licensed, open business.

The six stages most businesses go through. Our consultants confirm the exact requirements for your activity.

01
Choose your activity
Pick the activities your business will perform. Each one has its own requirements, so choose carefully.
02
Choose your structure
Mainland, free zone or offshore. Ownership rules and client reach differ, so compare them before you decide.
03
Reserve your trade name
Submit up to three preferred names. Availability is confirmed by the authority.
04
Prepare your documents
Passport copies, office details and company documents, depending on your structure.
05
Obtain approvals and licence
Your application goes to the relevant authorities. We track each approval and tell you what is needed.
06
Open and register
Open the bank account, register for VAT where needed and arrange visas for your team.

Your document checklist

Have these ready

Passport copies. A clear copy of the passport for every owner and for each person who will manage the company.
Visa and Emirates ID copies. For owners who already live in the UAE.
Proof of address. A recent document showing each owner’s home address, such as a utility bill or tenancy contract.
Company documents. If a shareholder is a company, its own registration documents, often attested.

Questions about setup

What are the steps to set up a company?
Choose your activities, choose your structure, reserve a trade name, prepare your documents, obtain approvals and the licence, then open a bank account and arrange visas. Our business setup guide explains each stage.
Can I set up any kind of business?
Most activities can be licensed, but some are restricted or need approval from another authority. Our activity list shows which ones need an approval.
How many activities can I put on one licence?
Many licences allow several related activities. The limit and the combinations allowed depend on the licensing authority, and we confirm them when we choose your activities.
How much does it cost to start a business?
The cost depends on your activity, structure, licence length, visas and extras. Use the cost calculator for an indicative estimate. We confirm the final figure in a written quotation.
Can a foreigner start a business in the UAE?
Yes. Foreign nationals can own companies in the UAE. The ownership options depend on the activity and the structure you choose, and we confirm them for your case.

Setting up from or in