Below is a general step-by-step overview of the process for registering a company in Dubai.
Step 1: Identify Your Business Activity
The first step is to determine the business activity you plan to undertake in Dubai. With over 2,000 approved economic activities available, selecting the correct one is crucial, as each activity requires specific licenses and regulatory approvals.
Step 2: Choose the Appropriate Business Structure
Once your business activity is finalized, select the most suitable legal structure for your company. Options include mainland (onshore) companies, free zone companies, offshore companies, Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), or branch offices. The choice depends on factors such as business objectives, number of shareholders, capital requirements, liability considerations, and the nature of the business activity.
Step 3: Select a Company or Trade Name
Your company’s trade name must be unique and not resemble any existing registered names. Depending on the jurisdiction, the trade name application can be submitted through the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority.
While choosing a trade name, ensure the following:
The name includes the legal structure abbreviation (e.g., LLC).
It does not contain offensive or inappropriate words.
The name reflects the approved business activity.
Names of rulers, government bodies, or external authorities are avoided.
The name is not already registered by another entity.
Approval is obtained from the Department of Economic Development and the Ministry of Economy.
Trade names are renewable as per regulations.
Step 4: Apply for the Appropriate Business License
After trade name approval, you must obtain a business license to operate legally in Dubai. Issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), the license defines your company’s authorized activities. Common license types include:
Commercial License: For trading, importing, exporting, and distributing goods.
Industrial License: Required for manufacturing and production activities.
Professional License: Applicable to service providers, artisans, and technical professionals.
Step 5: Decide on the Business Location or Jurisdiction
Selecting a business location is mandatory for company registration in Dubai. Businesses may either lease or purchase office space based on operational needs. Factors influencing this decision include business activity, workforce size, budget, and regulatory requirements. Office spaces in Dubai range from compact units of 20–30 sq. m. to large commercial spaces of up to 2,000 sq. m.
Step 6: Open a Corporate Bank Account
Once all registrations and approvals are completed, you can open a corporate bank account to manage the company’s financial transactions.
