How to set up a company in Dubai in 7 steps, opening a company in Dubai is one of the important strategic steps that many entrepreneurs and investors seek due to the wide business opportunities and advanced infrastructure that the emirate offers. Dubai is distinguished by its attractiveness to investors from all over the world, thanks to the flexible economic environment and tax exemptions granted in the free zones. However, the process of establishing a company may seem complicated to some due to the multiple legal requirements and administrative procedures. Therefore, Itqan Company provides integrated solutions that facilitate this process by providing the necessary guidance and support to investors. By following clear and specific steps, investors can establish their companies successfully and legally. These steps include starting from determining the type of business activity and choosing the appropriate legal form for the company, through obtaining the necessary approvals from government agencies, and ending with registering the company and obtaining the commercial register. In light of the strong competition in the Dubai market, good planning and cooperation with a specialized company such as Itqan is of utmost importance. Thanks to its extensive experience in this field, Itqan can provide support in all stages of establishing a company, including preparing the required documents, providing advice on legal conditions, and facilitating communication with government agencies. This collaboration ensures that no important step in the incorporation process is missed, enabling investors to start their businesses with confidence and readiness to succeed. In this article, we will review the seven essential steps to establishing a company in Dubai, with a focus on the importance of using the services of Itqan Company to achieve a smooth and fruitful experience.

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ToggleBasic steps to establish a company in Dubai
Establishing a company in Dubai is a strategic step for many entrepreneurs and investors, as the emirate offers an attractive business environment full of opportunities. Dubai has a well-developed infrastructure, tax exemptions, and an advanced legal system, making it an ideal destination for establishing a business. However, the process of establishing a company can seem a bit complicated due to the multiple registration requirements and legal procedures. To succeed in this path, it is important to follow specific steps carefully to ensure compliance with all regulations and avoid any obstacles that may arise. In this context, we will review the basic steps for establishing a company in Dubai, making it easier for investors to understand the process and plan effectively. Basic steps for establishing a company in Dubai
- Determine the type of business activity: Investors begin by determining the type of business they wish to engage in, whether commercial, industrial, or professional. This determination helps determine the appropriate legal form for the company.
- Choosing a legal form: Investors must choose the appropriate legal form for the company, such as a limited liability company, a joint stock company, or a partnership. The choice depends on the number of partners and the type of activity.
- Obtaining Initial Approval: The process requires obtaining initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the competent authority. This approval indicates that the proposed business activity is in compliance with local laws.
- Preparing the required documents: The necessary documents must be prepared, including passports, articles of association, and lease agreement. These documents play an important role in completing the registration procedures.
- Company Registration: After completing the documents, investors must submit the application to register the company and obtain the commercial register from the relevant authorities.
- Obtaining a trade license: Once registered, investors must obtain the appropriate trade license, which gives them the legal right to operate in Dubai.
- Opening a bank account: After obtaining the commercial license, a bank account must be opened in the name of the company to manage financial transactions and facilitate business operations.
By following these basic steps, investors can successfully establish their companies in Dubai and take advantage of the vast business opportunities that the emirate offers.

Documents required to establish a company in Dubai
Establishing a company in Dubai is a vital step for many entrepreneurs and investors seeking to achieve commercial success in a dynamic and growing environment. Dubai is one of the most attractive business destinations in the world, offering a range of benefits such as tax exemptions and advanced infrastructure. However, establishing a company requires a set of legal and administrative documents that must be submitted to ensure compliance with local requirements. Understanding the necessary documents facilitates the registration process and helps avoid any delays or legal obstacles that investors may face. In this context, we will discuss the documents required to establish a company in Dubai, which helps investors prepare everything they need to achieve their commercial steps with confidence. Documents required to establish a company in Dubai
- Passports: Copies of valid passports of all partners or investors must be provided.
- Articles of Association: The company’s articles of association are required, which detail the partners, type of company and business activity. This must be certified by the relevant authorities.
- Partnership Agreement: If a partnership exists, a partnership agreement must be submitted that outlines the terms and conditions agreed upon between the partners.
- Lease Contract: A copy of the lease contract for the location where the company will operate is required. The contract must be certified by the relevant authorities and show the lease period.
- Initial Approval: Initial approval must be obtained from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the competent authority, indicating that the proposed business activity is in compliance with local laws.
- No Objection Certificate: If there is a local partner, a No Objection Certificate may be required from the partner, confirming his consent to register the company.
- Personal Photos: Recent passport-sized photographs of partners and investors are required.
- Business Activity Data: The type of business activity to be conducted must be clearly stated, including a detailed description of the activities and services provided.
- Additional documents: Some businesses may require additional approvals from relevant authorities, such as the Ministry of Health or the Ministry of Tourism, depending on the nature of the business.
By accurately submitting these documents, investors can facilitate the process of company formation in Dubai, allowing them to enter the market quickly and efficiently.
Our company’s role in establishing a company in Dubai
In conclusion, establishing a company in Dubai is an exciting and promising experience that requires following precise steps to ensure success and sustainability. Through the seven steps reviewed, investors and entrepreneurs can effectively prepare their plan, starting from determining the type of business activity and choosing the appropriate legal form, all the way to obtaining the necessary approvals and registering the company. Understanding these procedures contributes to speeding up the establishment process and avoiding any legal obstacles that investors may face in the future. It is also essential for investors to have sufficient knowledge of local requirements and procedures, which makes working with a specialized company such as Itqan an ideal choice. Itqan has extensive experience in the field of establishing companies, which allows it to provide support and guidance at every step of the process. Thanks to the services it provides, investors can focus on developing their ideas and implementing their business strategies instead of worrying about legal and administrative procedures. Dubai is an ideal destination for businesses thanks to its supportive environment and economic incentives. Therefore, deciding to establish a company in this emirate is a smart investment for the future. Through Itqan, investors can facilitate the establishment process and ensure that their business starts with confidence and success. Embarking on your business journey with a trusted partner like Itqan enhances your chances of achieving your business goals and ensures a smooth and fruitful startup experience. Ultimately, every step taken towards company formation reflects the investor’s vision and ambitions, paving the way for success in Dubai’s dynamic and opportunistic market.
Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Company in Dubai
What are the basic steps to establish a company in Dubai?
The steps include determining the type of business activity, choosing the legal form, obtaining the necessary approvals, preparing the required documents, registering the company, obtaining the commercial register, and finally opening a bank account.
How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?
The time it takes depends on the type of company and the procedures required, but the incorporation process can usually be completed within two weeks to a month.
Do I need to have a local partner to set up a company in Dubai?
It depends on the type of company. In free zones, foreigners can establish companies with full ownership, while in public companies outside free zones a local partner may be required.
What documents are required to establish a company in Dubai?
Required documents include partners’ passports, articles of association, partnership agreement (if applicable), lease agreement, and preliminary approval.
Are there any fees to set up a company in Dubai?
Yes, company incorporation fees include registration costs, licensing fees, and any other fees associated with required approvals. These fees may vary based on the type of business and location.
Can I get a business license easily?
If all the requirements and documents are met correctly, obtaining a trade license in Dubai is a smooth process, especially when working with specialized companies like Itqan.