Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners

Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners is a strategic step to achieve their business goals in the Middle East region. In cooperation with Itqan Company, foreign investors can benefit from its experience and professionalism in guiding them through the establishment process in an easy and effective manner.

Dubai is a gateway to global business, providing a distinctive investment environment thanks to its flexible legislation and advanced infrastructure. Thanks to Itqan’s experience, foreigners can avoid common challenges and obtain the necessary assistance in choosing the appropriate legal structure for their company, whether it is a sole proprietorship or a limited liability company.

Itqan is a trusted partner for foreigners who want to set up a company in Dubai for foreigners, offering multiple services including legal and regulatory consulting, visa arrangements, logistical support, risk management, and more. The company is considered a strategic partner that can be relied upon to achieve success in the process of establishing and operating the company in Dubai.

Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners

Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners

Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners is a strategic option that gives investors the opportunity to benefit from the wide opportunities offered by the emirate. Dubai, thanks to its distinguished geographical location, dynamic economic environment, and advanced infrastructure, has become a global center for business and trade. However, the process of setting up a company in Dubai can be complex and requires a thorough understanding of local legislation and procedures. Here comes the role of Itqan Company, which is considered a reliable partner in this field.

Itqan Company has extensive experience in providing support to foreigners wishing to establish their companies in Dubai. Itqan offers a comprehensive range of services that make it easier for foreign investors to overcome bureaucratic and administrative obstacles. These services include providing legal and regulatory advice, which helps investors choose the most appropriate type of company for their company, whether it is a limited liability company, a branch of a foreign company, or even a business partnership.

In addition, Itqan assists in preparing the required documents and submitting them to the relevant government agencies, ensuring full compliance with all local regulations. This includes preparing the memorandum and articles of association, registering the company with the Department of Economic Development, and obtaining the necessary licenses to conduct commercial activities. Itqan also provides legal translation services to ensure the accuracy and understanding of all official documents.

One of the great advantages of cooperating with Itqan is facilitating the process of obtaining visas and residency for foreign founders and employees of the company. Itqan manages all procedures related to visas with the concerned authorities, saving time and effort for investors.

Furthermore, Itqan provides logistical support services, including choosing the appropriate location for the office or commercial headquarters, furnishing it and equipping it with all the necessary supplies to start work immediately. It also provides financial and accounting consulting services, which helps new companies manage their financial resources efficiently from the beginning.

Cooperation with Itqan is not limited only to the establishment stage, but extends to include continuous support to ensure the sustainability and success of the company. Itqan provides integrated risk management and compliance solutions, helping companies adapt to any legal or regulatory changes that may arise.

Steps to establish a company in Dubai for foreigners

Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners in cooperation with Itqan is a smart and effective option to achieve business goals. Thanks to the extensive experience and comprehensive services provided by Itqan, foreign investors can focus on the growth and success of their business, knowing that all legal and administrative aspects are managed efficiently and professionally. Here are the most important steps:

1. Determine the type of economic activity

• Determine precisely what type of business you want to do in Dubai.
• Ensure that your activity complies with the laws and regulations of Dubai.
• Find activities allowed for foreigners in Dubai.

2. Choosing the legal form of the company

Select the appropriate legal form for your company from the available options:

• A limited liability company.
• Shareholding company.
• Branch company.
• Representative office.

3. Choose a company name

• Choose a unique and easy-to-remember name for your business.
• Make sure there is no similar name for your company in Dubai.
• Make sure that the company name matches its type of activity.

4. Obtain initial approval

Apply for initial approval from the competent government authority.
You will need to provide some documents such as:

• Action Plan.
• Feasibility study.
• Information about shareholders.

5. Signing the company’s incorporation contract

Sign the company’s articles of incorporation with all shareholders.
The contract must include information such as:

• Company Name.
• Its legal form.
• Its capital.
• Shareholders’ shares.

6. Obtain a commercial license

Apply for a business license from the Department of Economic Development in Dubai.
You will need to provide some documents such as:

• Company incorporation contract.
• Approval of the competent government authority.
• Proof of company address.

7. Open a bank account for the company

Open a bank account for your company in a bank in Dubai.
You will need to provide some documents such as:

• Business license.
• Company incorporation contract.
• Information about shareholders.

8. Company insurance

• Make sure your company is insured against various risks.
• There are different types of insurances available for businesses in Dubai.

9. Registration in government bodies

Register your company with the relevant government bodies such as:

• Ministry of Labor.
• General Authority for Social Insurance.

10. Meet visa requirements

• Obtain the necessary work visas for foreign employees.
• You will need to submit some documents such as: a commercial license and employment contracts.

The best free zones to establish a company in Dubai

Dubai includes many free zones that are considered one of the best places to establish a company in Dubai for foreigners , thanks to the many facilities and advantages they offer. Here are some of the most prominent free zones in Dubai:

1. Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC): The DIFC is a financial free zone designated for companies operating in the financial sector. DIFC provides a sophisticated infrastructure, a regulatory environment in accordance with international standards, and a legal framework based on English common law. This center allows financial businesses, legal and professional services to operate very efficiently.
2. Dubai Internet City (DIC): Dubai Internet City is a major hub for ICT companies. The city provides advanced technological infrastructure, licensing facilities, and tax incentives. DIC is an ideal environment for startups and technology companies.
3. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA): JAFZA is one of the largest free zones in Dubai, and hosts a wide range of companies operating in various sectors. The region provides excellent infrastructure, advanced logistical facilities, and complete tax exemptions on profits and personal income. JAFZA is a major trade and logistics hub thanks to its strategic location near Jebel Ali Port.
4. Dubai Media City (DMC): DMC is a major hub for media, broadcasting, and media production companies. The region offers advanced infrastructure, specialized support services, and tax exemptions. DMC provides a creative environment for media companies and digital media.
5. Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC): Dubai Healthcare City is a major hub for companies operating in the healthcare sector. The region provides advanced medical infrastructure, facilities for obtaining medical licenses, and tax exemptions. DHCC is an ideal environment for hospitals, clinics, and medical research centers.
6. Dubai International Academic City (DIAC): Dubai International Academic City is a major hub for educational and training institutions. The region offers advanced educational infrastructure, facilities for obtaining educational licenses, and tax incentives. DIAC is an ideal environment for universities, colleges, and training institutes.
7. Dubai South: Dubai South is a new and distinguished free zone, and includes an aviation, logistics, and commercial area. The region provides advanced infrastructure, excellent logistical facilities, and tax exemptions. Dubai South is strategically located near Al Maktoum International Airport.

Choosing the most appropriate free zone depends on the type of business activity you intend to carry out and the specific needs of your company. Each free zone offers a set of benefits and facilities that meet the requirements of different sectors.

The free zone suitable for establishing a company in Dubai

1. Your type of business

• Make sure the free zone allows the type of activity you wish to engage in.
• Some free zones specialize in certain sectors, such as information technology, media or financial services.

2. The size of your company

• Some free zones are suitable for small and medium companies, while others are suitable for large companies.
• Ensure that the free zone provides facilities and services that suit your company’s needs.

3. Your needs in terms of facilities and services

Some free zones provide advanced infrastructure and various facilities and services, while others provide only basic services.
Determine your needs in terms of facilities and services, such as:

• Office spaces.
• Warehouses.
• IT services.
• Insurance services.

4. Cost

• The cost of establishing a company in a free zone varies from one region to another.
• Compare the cost of establishment and annual fees in different free zones.

5. Ease of access

• Some free zones are located in strategic locations near airports and ports, while others are located in more remote locations.
• Determine your needs in terms of easy access to markets, suppliers and customers.

6. Laws and regulations

• Laws and regulations differ in each free zone.
• Make sure that the laws and regulations in the free zone meet your needs.

7. The reputation of the free zone

• Some free zones have a good reputation, while others do not.
• Make sure that the free zone you choose has a good reputation.

How to establish a company in Dubai for foreigners

Establishing a company in Dubai is considered a strategic step for foreigners who want to benefit from the vast economic opportunities offered by the emirate. Dubai is a global center for business and trade, thanks to its distinguished geographical location, advanced infrastructure, and flexible investment legislation. However, the process of establishing a company in Dubai can be complex and requires a thorough understanding of the legal and administrative procedures.

Cooperating with a company specialized in this field can contribute greatly to facilitating this process. These companies provide a wide range of services that include providing legal and regulatory consultations, preparing the necessary documents, and submitting them to the competent authorities. It also helps in choosing the appropriate legal structure for the company, whether it is a limited liability company, a branch of a foreign company, or a business partnership.

In addition, these companies provide comprehensive support for obtaining the necessary licenses and visas for the founders and employees of the company. It manages all visa-related procedures with the relevant authorities, saving time and effort for foreign investors.

Other services provided by these companies include logistical support such as choosing the appropriate location for the office or commercial headquarters, and furnishing and equipping it with all the necessary supplies to start work. It also provides financial and accounting consulting services to help new companies manage their resources efficiently.

Cooperating with companies specialized in establishing companies ensures full compliance with all local regulations, allowing foreign investors to focus on the development and success of their business. Thanks to these integrated services, foreigners can establish their companies in Dubai easily and quickly, and benefit from the thriving investment environment in the emirate.

Papers and documents necessary to establish a company in Dubai for foreigners

Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners requires submitting a set of papers and documents to the relevant authorities to ensure compliance with local laws. Here is a list of necessary papers and documents:

Here are some papers and documents to establish a company in Dubai for foreigners

1. A valid passport:

• Your passport must be valid for a period of no less than 6 months from the date of submitting the company establishment application.
• You must have an entry visa to the United Arab Emirates.

2. Selfies:

• Photos must be recent and have a white background.
• The photos must match your passport photo.

3. A letter from the employer (if any):

If you are an employee, you must obtain a letter from your employer stating their approval for you to establish a company in Dubai.

4. Business plan:

The business plan must include information about:

• Company activity.
• Target market.
• Marketing strategy.
• Financial plan.

5. Feasibility study:

• The feasibility study must include information about:
• Market opportunities.
• Challenges faced by the company.
• How to finance the company.

6. The company’s articles of incorporation:

• The company’s articles of incorporation must include information about:
• Company Name.
• Its legal form.
• Its capital.
• Shareholders’ shares.

7. Approval of the competent government authority:

You must obtain approval from the competent government authority to establish your company.

8. Proof of company address:

You must provide proof of the business’s address, such as a lease or certificate of ownership.

9. Proof of opening a bank account for the company:

You must open a company bank account and provide proof of opening the account.
You may need to submit some additional papers and documents

10. Power of attorney:

If you cannot be in Dubai in person, you can appoint someone else to set up the company on your behalf.
You must provide a power of attorney to the person you will appoint.

11. Certificates approved by the competent authorities:

If you want to practice some activities, such as medicine or law, you must provide certificates approved by the competent authorities.

12. Business license from your country of origin:

If you own a company in your home country, you may need to provide a business license from your home country.

Tips for establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners

Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners can be a challenge that requires familiarity with legal and procedural details. Here are some basic tips for establishing a successful company in cooperation with Itqan Company:

1. Learn about the business environment in Dubai:

• Read about business laws and regulations in Dubai.
• Attend business events, seminars and conferences.
• Connect with other entrepreneurs in Dubai.

2. Find local partners:

• Local partners can help you understand the market better.
• They can also help you build relationships with companies and government agencies.

3. Invest in marketing:

• Marketing is essential to the success of any company in Dubai.
• Use a variety of marketing channels, such as advertising, public relations, and online marketing.

4. Provide excellent customer service:

• Customers are the most important component of any company.
• Ensure you provide excellent customer service to attract and retain customers.

5. Be prepared for challenges:

• Establishing a company in Dubai is not easy.
• Be prepared for challenges, such as intense competition and language barriers.

6. Consult a lawyer or advisor:

• It will help you choose the company type, free zone, and incorporation procedures.
• It will help you understand the laws and regulations related to establishing companies in Dubai.

7. Make sure that all required papers and documents are available:

• The required papers and documents vary depending on the type of company and free zone.
• You can obtain a list of papers from the Dubai Department of Economic Development website or by seeking the help of a lawyer or consultant.

8. Plan to finance your company:

• Determine the capital you will need to start your business.
• There are many financing methods, such as: personal savings, loans, and investment capital.

9. Make sure you have all necessary licenses and permits

• The necessary licenses and permits vary depending on the type of company and business activity.
• You can obtain information about licenses and permits from the Dubai Department of Economic Development website or by hiring a lawyer or consultant.

10. Create a solid business plan

• It will help you define your company’s goals and develop a strategy to achieve them.
• It should include information about your target market, the products or services you will provide, and your marketing and financial plans.

11. Market your company effectively

• There are many ways to market your company, such as advertising, public relations, and online marketing.
• Choose marketing methods that suit your company type and target market.

12. Build a strong team:

• A strong work team is one of the most important factors for the success of any company.
• Make sure you hire people with experience, competence, and skills that fit your company’s needs.

13. Adhere to the laws and regulations:

• Adhere to the laws and regulations regarding company formation in Dubai.
• This will help you avoid any legal problems.

Additional Tips:

• Learn some basic Arabic phrases.
• Respect local customs and traditions.
• Be patient and persistent.
• Be prepared for challenges.

Dubai is a great destination for foreign entrepreneurs aspiring to establish successful companies in a developed and supportive business environment. Thanks to attractive government incentives, advanced infrastructure, and a free economic system, the Emirate of Dubai attracts foreign investments from all over the world.

However, setting up a company in Dubai for foreigners may be challenging due to regulatory and legal complexities. Here comes the importance of using the services of Itqan Legal and Administrative Consulting Company. With its extensive experience in Dubai, Itqan helps foreigners overcome obstacles and establish successful companies efficiently and easily.

By providing comprehensive consultations from choosing the appropriate license, to securing residence visas, to establishing organizational structures, Itqan ensures that the incorporation process is smooth and secure. It also provides ongoing support to ensure regulatory and operational compliance of the company after incorporation.

In cooperation with Itqan Company, foreigners can exploit the promising opportunities in Dubai and establish leading companies in various fields. Compliance with local laws and regulations, while benefiting from specialized consulting services, is the key to business success in this attractive investment destination.

Frequently asked questions about establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners