How to set up a company in Dubai, Opening a company in Dubai is an important strategic step for ambitious investors looking for growth and expansion opportunities in one of the most dynamic markets in the world. With its advanced infrastructure and flexible economic system, Dubai provides a favorable environment for new businesses. However, the process of setting up a company in Dubai requires a thorough understanding of the legal and procedural requirements to ensure success and compliance with all local regulations. Working with Itqan at this stage can greatly facilitate the process. Itqan has extensive experience in the field of company formation, allowing it to provide comprehensive consulting and professional services that meet the needs of emerging companies and help them overcome potential challenges.
The process of establishing a company begins with determining the appropriate type of business entity, whether it is a limited liability company, a joint stock company, or another type of company, depending on the nature of the business activity and business objectives. After that, the company’s trade name is chosen and its availability is ensured in accordance with local laws. The next step involves preparing legal documents, such as the articles of association, and submitting them to the relevant authorities. This is followed by obtaining the necessary licenses, which vary depending on the type of business and location. With the guidance of Itqan Company, you can ensure that all steps are followed accurately and that the required approvals are obtained in a timely manner.
Itqan Company provides comprehensive support during all stages of company establishment, starting from submitting applications and licenses, to registering with government departments and completing the setup procedures. This cooperation contributes to speeding up the process and giving you time to focus on developing your business strategies and achieving your business goals.

How to set up a company in Dubai
Types of companies that can be established in Dubai
When considering setting up a company in Dubai , understanding the different types of companies available is an essential step to ensuring you choose the right structure for your business. As a global business hub, Dubai offers a variety of legal and business options to suit different business needs. Knowing the different types of companies can help you make an informed decision about the most appropriate structure for your venture.
In Dubai, there are several types of companies that you can establish, each with its own specific characteristics and benefits.
- Limited Liability Companies (LLC): LLCs are the most common type of company in Dubai. They allow for the establishment of a business with ownership split between a local and foreign partner, with the local partner owning 51% of the shares. These companies offer great flexibility in management and are suitable for a wide range of business activities.
- Public Joint Stock Companies: These companies require their shares to be listed on a stock exchange, allowing them to be sold to the public. They are typically established by large companies seeking to raise capital from multiple investors.
- Private Joint Stock Companies: These differ from public joint stock companies in that their shares are not publicly traded. This type of company is intended for companies that want to raise capital from a specific group of investors.
- Sole Proprietorships: Individuals can register a sole proprietorship, where the individual owns all the ownership and is fully responsible for all operations and debts. This option is suitable for small businesses or sole proprietorships.
- Offshore Companies: These companies provide an option for businesses that want to enjoy the benefits of an international presence without having to establish a physical presence in Dubai. These companies are allowed to operate in international markets while maintaining certain tax and financial benefits.
- Free Zone Companies: Dubai’s free zones offer great options for businesses, allowing full foreign ownership and tax and customs exemptions. Companies are often set up in free zones to facilitate international business activities and boost exports.
Each of these types of companies requires different procedures and requirements, and investors should choose the structure that aligns with their goals and business requirements.
Basic steps to establish a company in Dubai
Establishing a company in Dubai is a structured process that requires several basic steps to ensure compliance with all local laws and regulations. Dubai, as a global business hub, provides a dynamic and attractive business environment for investors, but success in establishing a company requires a thorough knowledge of the steps and procedures required. Therefore, it is essential to follow systematic steps to ensure that your business goals are successfully achieved. The basic steps to establish a company in Dubai include:
- Determine the type of company: The first step is to determine the type of company that suits your business. You can choose between limited liability companies, public or private joint stock companies, sole proprietorships, offshore companies, or companies in free zones. The choice depends on the nature of the business, potential partners, and business objectives.
- Choosing a company name: You must choose a distinctive trade name for your company, making sure that it complies with the requirements of the Roads and Transport Authority and the Dubai Trade Regulatory Authority. The name should be appropriate to the nature of the business and in compliance with local laws.
- Preparing legal documents: Establishing a company requires preparing a set of legal documents, including the articles of association and memorandum of association, passports for founders and directors, proof of address, and business plans. The required documents may vary depending on the type of company and location.
- Submitting the registration application: After preparing the documents, the company registration application must be submitted to the relevant authorities such as the Department of Economic Development or the free zones. This includes filling out the application forms and paying the required fees.
- Obtaining Licenses: Depending on the type of business, you will need to obtain the appropriate licenses. This includes the basic business license and any additional licenses that may be required based on the company’s activity.
- Opening a bank account: After obtaining the licenses, a business bank account must be opened in the name of the company. This usually requires submitting legal documents and company details to the bank.
- Completing the registration procedures: After opening the bank account, the final registration procedures are completed, which include obtaining the certificate of incorporation and completing any additional requirements that may be imposed by the local authorities.
- Hiring Staff and Renting Office: Hiring staff and renting a commercial office can begin after all the incorporation procedures are completed. This allows you to officially start your business operations.
Following these steps carefully will ensure successful company formation in Dubai and put you on the right track to achieving your business goals in this global business environment.
Our company’s role in establishing a company in Dubai
Establishing a company in Dubai with Itqan is a vital step towards achieving success in a diverse and evolving global market. The process of establishing a company in this vibrant city requires careful coordination with government agencies and a deep understanding of legal and procedural requirements. Cooperating with Itqan provides you with the benefit of its extensive experience and in-depth knowledge of Dubai markets and local laws, making it easy for you to pass through all stages of establishment efficiently and smoothly.
When you work with Itqan, you can count on a team of professionals who will assist you in every step of establishing your company, starting from choosing the appropriate type of business entity, through determining the trade name and preparing the necessary documents, all the way to obtaining licenses and completing the registration procedures. Thanks to this integrated service, you will be able to overcome any administrative or legal complications that you may face, allowing you to focus on developing your business and achieving your strategic goals.
Itqan also provides ongoing support and professional advice beyond the establishment phase, ensuring your continued success in the market. Through this collaboration, you gain valuable resources and specialized expertise to help you adapt to the economic and business changes in Dubai. Working with Itqan is not only a facilitation of the establishment process, but a strategic partnership that supports your success and continuity in one of the most dynamic markets in the world.
In short, establishing a company in Dubai with Itqan Company enhances your chances of achieving success and makes the establishment process an integrated professional experience, providing you with the solid foundations for building a successful and sustainable business.
Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Company in Dubai
What types of companies can be established in Dubai?
You can establish several types of companies in Dubai, including limited liability companies (LLCs), public and private joint stock companies, sole proprietorships, and offshore companies. The type of company you choose will depend on the objectives and nature of your business.
What are the basic steps to establish a company in Dubai?
The basic steps include determining the type of company, choosing a company name, preparing legal documents, submitting the incorporation application to the relevant authorities, obtaining the necessary licenses, opening a bank account for the company, and completing the final registration procedures.
What documents are required to establish a company in Dubai?
Essential documents include passports for founders and directors, residence visas, articles of association, proof of office address, and business plans or business activity statements. Required documents may vary depending on the type of company and region.
How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?
The process of establishing a company usually takes from a few weeks to several months, depending on the type of company and the efficiency of submitting documents and procedures. Working with a consulting firm such as Itqan can help speed up the process.
How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?
Foreign companies can open a branch or subsidiary in Dubai or establish in one of the free zones. Each option has different requirements and procedures.
What licenses are required to establish a company in Dubai?
Licenses vary depending on the type of business. Common licenses include commercial licenses, business licenses, and professional or industrial licenses.