Establishing a business in the UAE. The United Arab Emirates is considered one of the most important global destinations for establishing a business. As a leading commercial and economic center in the Middle East, the UAE provides an ideal environment for investors and entrepreneurs seeking to build and develop their companies.
The UAE has many advantages that make it a preferred destination for establishing a business. First, the country enjoys strong political and economic stability, which enhances confidence and business stability. Secondly, the UAE offers advanced and effective commercial laws and regulations that facilitate company establishment procedures and encourage investment.
In addition, the UAE has a modern and advanced infrastructure, which facilitates access to the services and resources necessary to establish a business in the UAE . The country also provides a wide network of free zones and special economic zones, which provide a suitable environment for local and international companies to grow and expand.
Finally, the UAE is a gateway to global markets, hosting many international exhibitions and conferences and promoting international trade. Thanks to these distinct factors, the UAE is an incubator environment for emerging businesses and emerging companies, which enhances innovation and economic growth in the country.

Steps to establish a business in the UAE
There are many steps involved in establishing a business in the UAE, and the most prominent steps that must be followed are the following:
1- Choosing the company type: Investors must choose the company type that matches their needs and can be registered in accordance with local laws and regulations. You can choose from limited partnerships, public companies and sole proprietorships.
2- Obtaining a work permit: A work permit must be obtained from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) in order for foreigners to be allowed to work and reside.
3- Obtaining a commercial registry permit: Investors must obtain a commercial registry permit from the Economic Department in the emirate where the commercial activity is located.
4- Obtaining permits from relevant government agencies: Permits from relevant government agencies, including customs, health, and environment, must be obtained to work in certain activities.
5- Determine the geographical location of the company: Investors must specify the geographical area in which they wish to establish business, and in some cases this may require obtaining a permit from government agencies.
6- Determine ownership and establishment: Investors must identify the company’s shareholders, determine the equity shares, and submit the necessary documents to prove this to the local authorities.
Finally, you must ensure that all procedures are completed and the necessary licenses are obtained before starting the business. Do not hesitate to consult with consulting offices to help choose the appropriate type of company and implement the establishment steps smoothly.
Related topics: Establishing a company in Dubai
How to establish a business in the UAE
Establishing a business in the UAE requires careful planning and knowledge of local procedures and laws governing corporate operations. It usually starts with determining the appropriate type of company for your business, whether it is a sole proprietorship, joint-stock company, or limited liability company. After that, you must obtain licenses and permits from the relevant government agencies, such as the Ministry of Economy and Corporate Development and the Department of Commerce and Industry in each emirate.
You can get help from local consultants such as Etqan experts to guide you through the procedures and ensure that all requirements are met. Required documents, such as company contracts and required signatures, must also be carefully prepared and registered with the relevant authorities. Don’t forget to establish a company bank account, obtain a business license, and open a tax file.
After establishing the company, you must comply with local regulations, taxes and professional standards applicable in the UAE. Partnering with experienced local partners can be helpful in guiding you, helping you understand the local market and building strong business relationships.
In short, establishing a business in the Emirates requires good planning and adherence to local legal and administrative procedures, and using Itqan consultants can help simplify this process and achieve sustainable success.
Obtaining all permits and licenses necessary to start business in the Emirates
Topics that may interest you: Establishing a company in the free zone
Obtaining all permits to start businesses in the Emirates
Obtaining all permits to start a business in the Emirates depends on the type of company and its activity. Here are general steps to follow to obtain the necessary permits and licenses:
- Determine the type of company and activity: Before you start obtaining permits and licenses, you must determine the type of company (such as a limited liability company, a subsidiary, a company in a free zone) and the business activity that you plan to practice.
- Company registration: Start by registering your company with the business regulatory department in the emirate where you plan to establish your company, such as the Department of Economic Development (DED).
- Determine capital and shares: Determine the required capital for your company and distribute the shares among shareholders if there is.
- Providing the necessary proof: You may need to provide proof of identity for all shareholders and directors, as well as certificates of experience if necessary.
- Compliance with Environmental, Health, and Safety Requirements: If you operate in a specific industry that requires environmental, health, or safety permits, ensure compliance with these requirements.
- Tax registration: Register your company for taxes and determine what activities you will undertake.
- Business Permits and Licenses: Find out if your business requires additional permits or licenses. You may need a business license, building permit, advertising permit, food and beverage permit, etc.
- Obtaining work and residence permits: If you intend to employ foreign employees, you will need to arrange work and residence permits for them.
- Open a commercial bank account: Open a commercial bank account for your company and submit the required documents.
- Insurance and guarantees: You may need to provide insurance or financial guarantees for potential liabilities.
- Social and Labor Insurance: Make sure to register in the Social and Labor Insurance system if required.
- Achieve Legal Compliance: Ensure compliance with all local and international laws and regulations applicable to your industry.
- Government approvals: In some cases, you may need special government approval if you work in sensitive sectors.
Please note that these procedures depend on the type of company, activity and emirate you choose. It is always preferable to consult local business consultants or professionals to help carry out the procedures correctly and effectively.
Tips for choosing a reliable partner in the UAE for establishment and investment
- First, carefully search for potential partners and consult business professionals or legal advisors specialized in the local laws and regulations in the Emirates , in addition to the following tips:
Credibility and history: Check the history and record of potential partners in business and investments in the Emirates. The partner must be reliable and have a good success record. - Independence and common interest: Make sure there is clear alignment between you and the potential partner regarding the company’s goals and common interest.
- Legal advice: Consult our company’s experts specialized in UAE commercial laws to understand the legal aspects of partnership and incorporation.
- Transparency and Legal Contracts: Accurately define the duties, rights and financial obligations of each partner in tight legal contracts.
- Experience and Expertise: Look for a partner who has experience in your field or the industry in which you work.
- Ownership and percentage: Clearly determine the ownership of the company between you and the partner, including the percentage of ownership and distribution of profits.
- Trust and Chemistry: Make sure that there is positive chemistry between you and your partner, and that there is mutual trust.
- Legal Identity Verification: Make sure that the potential partner has the correct legal identity and possesses the necessary records and licenses.
- Negotiation and Sound Agreements: Carefully negotiate the terms of your partnership and put them into clearly and transparently written legal agreements.
- Financial Advice: Consult a financial advisor to evaluate the financial aspects of the partnership and investment.
- Check References: Ask the potential partner to provide references from previous companies or businesses they have worked with.
- Search for government support: Look for partnership opportunities with government agencies and programs that support entrepreneurship and investment.
Choosing a reliable partner in the UAE can be the key to success in entrepreneurship. Make sure you conduct the necessary research and evaluation before making any decisions and consult with experienced professionals like the experts at Itqan.
Our company’s role in establishing business in the UAE
In conclusion, establishing a business in the UAE in cooperation with Itqan Company is a strategic investment step. This partnership combines the wonderful environment for entrepreneurship in the UAE with Itqan’s experience in providing advisory services and support to startups.
Thanks to the thriving economic environment, political stability and advanced commercial laws, the UAE provides a favorable environment for establishing a business. Through a partnership with Itqan Company, which specializes in strategic consulting and assistance in establishing companies, entrepreneurs can benefit from experience and specialized knowledge in areas such as strategic planning, financing, marketing, and global expansion.
Itqan provides personalized and personalized support to startups, from ideation to growth and expansion. The company helps in analyzing the market, developing appropriate strategies and providing implementation capabilities. It also facilitates access to a wide network of investment companies and local and international partners.
Through this partnership, startups can benefit from Etqan’s specialized services and strategic guidance to achieve success and growth in the UAE market and across borders. The experience of establishing a business in the Emirates in cooperation with Itqan Company is a real opportunity for entrepreneurs to achieve their ambitions and transform ideas into reality in an advanced and supported investment environment.
Frequently asked questions about establishing a business in the UAE
What are the basic steps to establish a business in the UAE?
Determine the appropriate business activity and type of company. Choose a company name and ensure it complies with local laws. Preparing the required documents and applying for licenses and registration.
What types of companies can be established in the UAE?
Limited joint stock companies, unlimited joint stock companies, one-person companies, companies in free places, and others.
Can foreigners establish businesses in the UAE?
Yes, foreigners can establish businesses provided there is a local partner in some types such as limited companies.
What are the expected fees and costs for setting up a business?
Costs vary depending on the type of company, licenses and services required, and include registration fees, consulting fees and administrative services.
What support services are available for entrepreneurship in the UAE?
Supporting services include financing and marketing programs, training and development, government facilities and assistance with legal and tax matters.
What are the legal and tax obligations of startups?
Companies must comply with tax and legal laws and regulations, submit financial reports and adhere to required accounting standards.
What financial services are available to new companies?
Financial services include opening bank accounts, financial advice, financial transfer and investment services.
Is it possible to move the company from one place to another within the Emirates?
Yes, companies can be transferred within the Emirates after completing the required procedures and licenses.