Guide to Register a Business in Dubai

for Non-Resident Entrepreneurs

Our guide to business registration in Dubai for non-resident entrepreneurs offers a clear, step-by-step approach to setting up your business. It covers all necessary registrations, tax filings, and employer obligations, with timelines and required documentation. The guide highlights key government agencies, websites, and online portals, ensuring compliance. Additionally, it recommends using tools like ForReg and services from House of Companies to streamline market entry and ensure ongoing compliance for your Dubai business.

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Step-by-Step Approach for Establishing a Business

Choose a Business Structure

Options: Free Zone Company, Mainland Company, Offshore Company.
Recommendation: Consult with a local legal advisor to determine the most suitable structure for your business needs.

Register the Business

Department of Economic Development (DED): Register your business with the DED if setting up a Mainland Company.
Free Zone Authority: Register with the relevant Free Zone Authority if setting up in a Free Zone.
Documentation: Submit the Memorandum of Association (MOA), passport copies, and other required documents.
Timeline: 1-2 weeks.

Obtain Trade License

DED or Free Zone Authority: Apply for a trade license specific to your business activities.
Documentation: Provide proof of business registration, lease agreement, and other required documents.
Timeline: 1-2 weeks.

Register for Taxes

Federal Tax Authority (FTA): Register for Value-Added Tax (VAT) with the FTA.
Documentation: Provide business registration details, trade license, and other required documents.
Timeline: 2-4 weeks.

Open a Bank Account

Local Bank: Open a corporate bank account with a local bank in Dubai.
Requirements: Provide incorporation documents, identification, and proof of address.
Timeline: 1-2 weeks.

Visa and Work Permits

General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA): Apply for visas and work permits for foreign employees.
Documentation: Provide employee passport copies, employment contracts, and other required documents.
Timeline: 2-4 weeks.

Recommended Tools and Services

ForReg: A comprehensive service for business registration and compliance in Dubai, offering assistance with documentation, licensing, and regulatory requirements.
House of Companies: Provides end-to-end solutions for company formation, including legal advice, tax registration, and ongoing compliance support.

By following these steps and utilizing the resources provided by the relevant government agencies and recommended tools and services, non-resident entrepreneurs can successfully establish and operate a business in Dubai, ensuring full compliance with local regulations.

Key Requirements for Establishing a
Business in Dubai

Establishing and managing a business in Dubai involves several key steps to ensure compliance with local regulations and efficient operation. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Authentication Methods

Secure necessary authentication methods such as UAE PASS or use relevant online portals to access Dubai government services.

5. Register for VAT

Authority: Federal Tax Authority (FTA)
Website: FTA
Description: Register for VAT with the FTA, either through a registered branch office or as a foreign company without a permanent establishment.

2. Register the Parent Company

Authority: Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED)
Website: DED
Description: Register the parent company through the DED's official website.

6. Register as an Employer

Authority: UAE Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE)
Website: MOHRE
Description: Register as an employer with MOHRE.

3. Register the Branch Office

Authority: Relevant Free Zone or Mainland Authority
Description: Register the branch office or establishment unit(s) depending on the business location (free zone or mainland).

7. Manage Employment Mandates

Fulfill employer obligations, including submitting employee data to the Wages Protection System (WPS).

4. Obtain a Unique Establishment Number

Secure a unique establishment number for the branch office.

8. Submit VAT Returns

Authority: Federal Tax Authority (FTA)
Website: FTA
Description: Submit VAT returns through the FTA portal.

This guide aims to provide a detailed and precise roadmap for non-resident entrepreneurs to establish and manage their business presence in Dubai, ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.

Procedures and Timelines for Registering a
Branch Office in Dubai

Obtain Authentication Credentials

Timeline: 1–2 weeks
Secure necessary authentication methods such as UAE PASS or use relevant online portals to access Dubai government services. This step is crucial for ensuring secure and streamlined interactions with various governmental departments.

Timeline: 2–4 weeks
Register the parent company with the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) via their official website. This involves submitting the required forms, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and paying the applicable fees. The DED is responsible for the registration and regulation of businesses on the mainland of Dubai.

Timeline: 2–4 weeks
Register the branch office or establishment unit(s) through the relevant free zone or mainland authority, depending on the business location. This process includes obtaining the necessary approvals and licenses. Upon successful registration, a unique establishment number for the branch office will be issued.

Obtaining a VAT Number

Timeline: 2–4 weeks
Register for VAT with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) of the UAE via their official website. This can be done either through a registered branch office or as a foreign company without a permanent establishment. The VAT registration is essential for compliance with tax regulations and for conducting business activities legally in Dubai.

Becoming an Employer in Dubai

Timeline: 2–4 weeks
Register as an employer with the UAE Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) via their official website. This includes managing employment mandates and fulfilling employer obligations, such as submitting employee data to the Wages Protection System (WPS) to ensure timely and accurate salary payments.

Submitting VAT Returns

Use the FTA portal to submit VAT returns. Businesses must comply with monthly or quarterly filing deadlines to avoid penalties and ensure continuous compliance with tax regulations.

These steps and utilizing the resources provided by the relevant government agencies, non-resident entrepreneurs can efficiently establish and operate a business in Dubai

Relevant Government Agencies and Websites for Business in Dubai

Department of Economic Development (DED):
- Website: DED
- Description: The DED is responsible for the registration and regulation of businesses on the mainland of Dubai. It provides licenses for various business activities and ensures compliance with local laws and regulations.
Federal Tax Authority (FTA):
- Website: FTA
- Description: The FTA manages tax registrations, collections, and compliance for businesses operating in Dubai. It oversees the implementation of VAT and other tax-related matters, ensuring businesses adhere to tax regulations.
Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE):
- Website: MOHRE
- Description: MOHRE oversees employment-related regulations, including work permits and labor laws. It ensures that businesses comply with employment standards and protects the rights of both employers and employees.
Free Zone Authorities:
- Examples: Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
- Websites: Vary by Free Zone
- Description: Each Free Zone Authority manages the registration and regulation of businesses within their respective zones. They offer various incentives, such as tax exemptions and full foreign ownership, to attract international businesses.
Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry:
- Website: Dubai Chamber
- Description: The Dubai Chamber supports businesses by providing networking opportunities, market intelligence, and advocacy services. It plays a crucial role in promoting Dubai as a global business hub.
Dubai Customs:
- Website: Dubai Customs
- Description: Dubai Customs facilitates trade and ensures the smooth flow of goods into and out of Dubai. It provides customs clearance services and enforces regulations to prevent illegal trade activities.
Dubai Municipality:
- Website: Dubai Municipality
- Description: The Dubai Municipality oversees urban planning, building regulations, and environmental health standards. It ensures that businesses comply with local building codes and environmental regulations.

By engaging with these agencies and utilizing their resources, businesses can navigate the regulatory landscape of Dubai efficiently and ensure full compliance with local laws.

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