Some investors wonder what are the papers required to open a company in the Emirates? When thinking about establishing a company in the United Arab Emirates, preparing the required papers and documents is an essential step in the process of establishing the project. The Emirates is one of the leading destinations for business and investment in the region, as it provides an encouraging economic environment and facilitating services for establishing companies. The process of opening a company in the Emirates requires a set of documents that vary according to the type of company and the activities you wish to practice. Through this article, we will review what are the papers required to open a company in the Emirates.

What are the papers required to open a company in the Emirates

To open a company in the Emirates, the required papers vary according to the type of company, the region (inside or outside the free zones) and the type of activity. However, there is a basic set of documents that are often required, including:

A copy of the passport: for the company owner and all potential partners.
A personal photo: for the company owner (with passport photo specifications).
A copy of the visa: (if the founder is a resident of the Emirates).
The company’s articles of association: including the type of business activity and details of the partners.
The lease contract: for the workplace or office, with proof of the commercial address.
Government Approval: For some private business activities such as medical or legal, approval from the relevant authorities may be required.

Proof of Capital: Some free zones may require proof of invested capital.

Business License: Related to the permitted business activity, issued by the Department of Economic Development or the Free Zone Authority. These requirements vary depending on the type of company (e.g., free zone, limited liability company, branch of a foreign company).

Steps to Open a Company in the Emirates

First, determine the type of business activity. Choose the business activity you wish to practice, as this affects the type of license required. To open a company in the Emirates, you can follow the remaining steps below:

Choose the type of company: Select the type of company (limited liability company, sole proprietorship, branch of a foreign company, etc.).

Determine the location: Decide whether to open the company in a free zone or outside it, as each has its advantages and restrictions.

Choose the company name: Choose a trade name that complies with local laws, and make sure it is available through the registration system.

Gather the required documents: Gather the necessary documents such as passports, personal photos, lease contract, and articles of association.
Submitting the application: Submit the application to the Department of Economic Development or the competent authority in the free zone, along with the required documents.
Obtaining the license: After the application is approved, you will receive the commercial license that allows you to practice the activity.
Opening a bank account: Open a commercial bank account in the name of the company to start financial operations.
Registering with government agencies: Register with the relevant government agencies such as the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
Securing other licenses and permits: Obtain any additional licenses or permits that you may need depending on the nature of the activity.
Hiring employees (if necessary): Hire employees in accordance with local laws, and obtain the necessary work visas.
Starting business operations: After completing all the steps, you can start practicing your business activity.
It is important to work with a legal advisor or a specialized company such as “Atqan” to ensure compliance with all legal requirements.

Conditions for opening a company in the Emirates

To open a company in the Emirates, there are a number of basic conditions that must be taken into account, which vary slightly depending on the type of company and business activity. Here are the most important conditions:

Minimum capital: Capital requirements vary depending on the type of company and region. In some free zones.
Having a local partner (in some cases): If you want to open a company outside the free zones, you may need a local partner who owns 51% of the company’s shares.
Determining the type of activity: You must have a specific business activity that you wish to practice, and this requires obtaining a license that is appropriate for this activity.
Obtaining approvals: Some activities require special approvals from certain government agencies, such as medical or educational activities.
Providing identity documents: Passports and personal photos of the founders and investors must be provided.
Choosing the company’s location: You must have an actual location to practice the business, with the submission of a lease contract or documents proving ownership of the property.
Submitting a license application: An application for a commercial license must be submitted with all required documents.
Registration with government agencies: Register the company with the relevant authorities, such as the Department of Economic Development or the competent authority in the free zone.
Compliance with labor laws: You must comply with the labor laws in the UAE, including employment and insurance.

Insurance and other licenses: Some activities may require additional insurance or licenses such as health or environmental licenses. Make sure to review all requirements with the relevant authorities or consult a specialized company such as “Atqan” to ensure compliance with all legal conditions.

The importance of establishing a company in Dubai

Establishing a company in Dubai is of great importance for many reasons, including:

Favorable business environment: Dubai is considered one of the best global destinations for business, as it has a vibrant commercial environment that supports innovation and growth.

Investment opportunities: Dubai offers wide investment opportunities in various sectors such as tourism, real estate, trade, and technology.

Tax exemptions: Companies in free zones enjoy tax exemptions, which helps increase profits and reduce operating costs.

Ease of access to global markets: Thanks to its strategic location, Dubai is a link between the East and the West, making it easy to access global markets.

Advanced infrastructure: Dubai has an advanced infrastructure that includes airports, ports, and modern roads, which facilitates commercial movement.
Multinationality: Dubai has a diverse international community, facilitating collaboration and partnerships between companies from different cultures and backgrounds.

Government Support: The UAE government provides significant support to investors, including facilitation of licensing and permits.

Innovation Orientation: Dubai promotes innovation and modern technology, helping companies adapt to rapid changes in markets.

Economic and Political Stability: The UAE enjoys economic and political stability, making it a safe destination for investment.

High Quality of Life: Dubai offers a high standard of living and services, attracting talent and distinguished employees.

Establishing a company in Dubai can be a strategic step towards success and growth, especially with the support and facilities available to investors.

Cost Factors for Establishing a Company in Dubai

The cost of establishing a company in Dubai depends on several factors, including:

Type of Company: Costs vary depending on the type of company (limited liability company, sole proprietorship, branch of a foreign company, or a company in a free zone).

Location of the Company: The costs of establishing a company in free zones are often lower compared to those in public areas, as free zones provide special benefits such as tax exemptions.
Licensing fees: These include the costs of obtaining a trade license, which vary depending on the type of activity and the requirements of the competent authorities.

Office costs: An office or work site must be provided, and the rental cost depends on the location and area.

Papers and documents: Some activities require additional approvals from government agencies, which may add additional costs.

Company registration fees: These include the fees for registering the company with government agencies, such as the Department of Economic Development or the competent authority.

Legal fees: If you are using a legal advisor or a specialized service company, these fees may add an additional cost.

Required capital: In some cases, proof of invested capital may be required, which affects the total costs.

Social insurance: Social insurance fees may have to be paid to employees, depending on their number and the nature of the company’s work.

Operating costs: These include daily costs such as salaries, bills, and taxes, which must be taken into account when calculating the total costs. It is important to prepare a comprehensive budget that takes into account all of these factors to get an accurate estimate of the costs of establishing a company in Dubai.

Etqan Company Services for Opening a Company in the Emirates

Etqan Company provides a comprehensive range of services to prepare the required papers to open a company in the Emirates, making it easier for investors to start their businesses quickly and smoothly. These services include:

Legal Consultation: Providing legal advice on the requirements for establishing companies and permitted activities, and directing clients towards the most appropriate for them.
Preparing Documents: Assisting in collecting and preparing all required documents, such as passports, personal photos, and lease contracts.
Preparing Articles of Association: Preparing company articles of association and other legal documents to ensure compliance with local laws.
Submitting a license application: Submitting an application for a commercial license on behalf of clients, saving time and effort.
Obtaining the necessary approvals: Coordinating with government agencies to obtain any additional approvals or permits required depending on the type of activity.
Opening a bank account: Assisting clients in opening a commercial bank account in the company’s name to facilitate financial transactions.
Providing Administrative Support Services: Providing administrative support services such as registering the company with government agencies and updating data.
Providing Additional Consultations: Providing advice on taxes, insurance, and compliance with local laws.
Recruitment Assistance: Providing support in hiring employees and facilitating work visa procedures.
Follow-up on procedures: Following up on all procedures and communicating with the relevant authorities to ensure the smooth completion of the establishment process.
“Atqan” services help investors overcome administrative complexities, making it easier for them to focus on growing their businesses.

In conclusion, it can be said that establishing a company in the UAE is a strategic step towards achieving commercial and investment goals. Understanding the papers and documents required to open a company is essential to ensure that the process runs smoothly and efficiently. By preparing the necessary documents such as passports, lease contracts, and legal applications, investors can overcome legal and administrative obstacles. Therefore, it is always advisable to cooperate with specialized companies such as “Atqan” to facilitate the establishment procedures and ensure compliance with all legal requirements. Providing a favorable business environment and wide investment possibilities, the UAE remains an ideal destination for anyone seeking to start a successful business project.

Frequently asked questions about the papers required to open a company in the UAE

What is the Articles of Association, and why is it important?
The Articles of Association are the legal document that defines the details of the company, such as the trade name, activity, and capital. The Articles of Association are essential because they clarify the legal framework of the company.

Do I need to prove a business location?

Yes, opening a company in the UAE requires documents proving a physical location, such as an office lease or ownership certificate.

How many passport photos are required to establish a company?
Typically, 2 to 4 passport photos are required for shareholders and directors.