How to set up a company in Dubai: Steps and Benefits, Opening a company in Dubai is an important strategic step for any investor or entrepreneur looking to enter the dynamic and thriving business environment offered by this global city. Dubai is distinguished by its investment attractiveness thanks to its advanced infrastructure, wide commercial opportunities, and business-friendly laws. However, the process of setting up a company in Dubai can be complex and requires a complete understanding of the legal and commercial procedures and requirements. This is where the importance of working with Itqan Company comes in, which provides the necessary support and expertise to facilitate this process.
Itqan provides comprehensive consultancy services that include assistance in choosing the most appropriate type of company, guidance on choosing the ideal location, and support in preparing the required legal documents. In addition, Itqan guides clients through the registration process and provides advice on financial obligations and necessary licenses. With its extensive experience in the local market and in-depth knowledge of government procedures, Itqan helps ensure that the company is established successfully and efficiently, saving time and effort and reducing potential risks. This comprehensive service allows investors to focus on developing their business and growing their strategies instead of being preoccupied with complex administrative aspects. Partnering with Itqan can have a significant impact on the success of the company formation process, making it a valuable partner in the journey of establishing any business in Dubai.

How to set up a company in Dubai steps and features
Basic steps to establish a company in Dubai
Establishing a company in Dubai is an important strategic step towards entering one of the world’s most dynamic and prosperous markets. Dubai is a leading business hub thanks to its prime geographical location, advanced infrastructure, and investment-friendly regulatory environment. However, the process of establishing a company in Dubai requires following a set of basic steps to ensure compliance with local legal and administrative requirements. By understanding these steps, entrepreneurs and investors can achieve a smooth and efficient process of establishing their companies, contributing to the success of their projects and the growth of their businesses in this economic environment full of opportunities. The basic steps to establishing a company in Dubai
- Determine the type of company and business activity: Before starting the incorporation process, you must determine the type of company you want to establish, such as a limited liability company (LLC), a public joint-stock company, or a sole proprietorship. You must also determine the business activity that the company will conduct, as this affects the type of licenses and legal requirements that you will need.
- Choosing the right location: Companies need to choose a location for their headquarters, either on the Dubai mainland or in one of the free zones. Location can affect licensing requirements and costs.
- Preparing the required documents: The basic documents include the founders’ passport, Emirates ID, lease contract for the commercial premises, and the business plan. You may also need additional approvals if the activity requires a special license.
- Submitting applications to government agencies: After preparing the documents, applications are submitted to the relevant government agencies such as the Department of Economic Development. This includes submitting the license application and preparing the necessary documents to obtain the required approvals.
- Company registration and obtaining licenses: After reviewing the applications and documents, the government authorities issue the commercial license. The company must also register with the chambers of commerce and open a commercial bank account.
- Completing legal and financial procedures: After obtaining the license, registration with the tax authorities must be completed, the necessary insurances must be prepared, and the appropriate accounting and administrative systems must be prepared.
- Starting Business: After completing all legal and administrative steps, the company can start business activities and expand in the market.
By following these steps, entrepreneurs can achieve an effective and efficient establishment of their companies in Dubai, putting them on the path to success and growth in the advanced business market.

Documents required to establish a company in Dubai
Documents required to establish a company in Dubai
Establishing a company in Dubai requires the submission of a set of basic documents to ensure compliance with legal and administrative requirements. Dubai is a preferred destination for investors and businessmen thanks to its encouraging business environment and advanced infrastructure. However, the legal procedures that must be followed require the careful preparation and compilation of documents to ensure that the incorporation process runs smoothly and efficiently. In this context, it is important to know the required documents and how to prepare them correctly to avoid any delays or complications in the incorporation process. Below, we review the basic documents you need to establish your company in Dubai, helping you prepare everything necessary to ensure a successful incorporation process. Documents required to establish a company in Dubai
- Founders’ Passport: A colour copy of each founder or partner’s passport, which must be valid. This is an essential document to verify the identity of the individuals involved.
- Emirates ID: For founders and investors residing in the UAE, a copy of the Emirates ID is required.
- Lease contract for the commercial premises: A lease contract for the company’s premises must be submitted, specifying the company’s location and area, and the contract must be notarized and certified.
- Business Plan: A document that details the business activity, target market, financial and operational strategy, and company goals. This helps assess the feasibility of the project and ensure its compliance with local regulations.
- Company Registration Form: The application form submitted to the relevant government authorities, which includes details about the type of company and business activity.
- Approval from competent authorities: For some business activities, it may be necessary to obtain approval from regulatory bodies or competent authorities before starting the registration procedures.
- Local Partner Documents: If the company requires a local partner (in case of onshore companies), the personal documents of the local partner must be submitted.
- Special Licenses: Some businesses may require special licenses or additional certificates depending on the type of activity, which must be submitted as part of the documentation.
- Copy of Professional Certificates: If the business requires professional certificates or licenses, copies must be provided.
Submitting these documents accurately and in the correct order will help speed up the incorporation process and ensure that all legal and administrative requirements in Dubai are met.
Our company’s role in establishing a company in Dubai
Establishing a company in Dubai with Etqan can be a pivotal step towards success in a dynamic and growing business market. By providing specialized support and practical expertise, Etqan facilitates every aspect of the incorporation process from fully understanding the legal requirements to dealing with bureaucratic procedures. Etqan helps advise on the most appropriate type of legal entity, provides advice on choosing a strategic location, and ensures that all licensing and registration matters are resolved in a smooth and efficient manner.
Partnering with Itqan enhances the chances of project success by ensuring compliance with all government requirements and minimising the risk of errors or delays. Itqan’s support also extends to providing advice on financial matters and managing legal documents, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on developing their business strategies rather than dealing with the technical aspects of the procedures. Ultimately, the Itqan partnership contributes to providing a smooth and facilitated incorporation experience, helping to lay a solid foundation for business growth and expansion in the UAE market. With Itqan, company formation in Dubai becomes a hassle-free process, giving investors the confidence and time to focus on the success of their projects and achieving their business goals efficiently and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Company in Dubai
What are the basic steps to establish a company in Dubai?
To establish a company in Dubai, the main steps that must be followed include determining the type of company and its activity, choosing a suitable location, submitting the necessary applications to government agencies, preparing the required documents, obtaining the necessary licenses, and completing the legal and financial procedures. The steps may also include opening a business bank account and registering the company with the tax authorities.
What types of companies can be established in Dubai?
Several types of companies can be established in Dubai, including limited liability companies (LLCs), public and private joint stock companies, sole proprietorships, and offshore companies. The choice depends on the nature of the business, the size of the company, and ownership requirements.
Can foreigners establish a company in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can establish companies in Dubai. Foreigners can either establish companies in the free zones, where they can have full ownership, or in the mainland, where a local partner with a percentage of shares may be required.
What documents are required to establish a company in Dubai?
Essential documents include the passport of the owner or partners, Emirates ID, lease contract for the commercial premises, description of the business activity, and approval from the competent authorities if the activity requires a special license.
What licenses are required to establish a company in Dubai?
The licenses required depend on the type of business and company. Common licenses include commercial licenses, industrial licenses, and professional licenses. Some activities may require additional, special licenses.
How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?
The time required to set up a company in Dubai can vary depending on the type of company and the complexity of the procedures. In general, the incorporation process can take anywhere from several weeks to two months, especially if the documents are ready and reviewed quickly.