Dubai is a vibrant, fast-expanding city that serves as a centre for businesses of all kinds and sectors worldwide. Businesses wishing to establish and operate there find the city’s established legal system and pro-business mindset appealing locations. The excellent business environment also attracts foreign investment opportunities in Dubai.
All this is possible owing to its facilities, tax-free status, and ideal location as a centre for global trade. To encourage entrepreneurs, Dubai also offers a flourishing entrepreneurial environment with several incubators, accelerators, and co-working spaces.
Setting up a business in Dubai can be difficult, particularly for individuals who are not aware with the local laws, rules, and processes. However, the process can be successfully navigated with careful planning, research, and professional guidance. With government incentives, tax exemptions, and streamlined procedures, Dubai provides a business-friendly climate that attracts businesses.
These business setup professionals know to help you with all types of businesses, whether you want to open a business in a free zone or on Dubai’s mainland. This article is a must-read for anybody looking into how to launch a business in Dubai.
Hassle-Free Ways to Set Up a Business in Dubai
Many people are unaware of the procedures needed to start a business in Dubai. If you wish to launch a business here, it is essential to consider the steps stated below.
Choose Your Business Activity
Prior industry experience can be beneficial when opening a business in Dubai. If you have previously owned or currently operate a business, much of the knowledge and skills are transferable. So, conducting business in Dubai may be easier, as many procedures become simple.
That said, the UAE presents exceptional opportunities for new entrepreneurs, and the endless possibilities lead to potentially lucrative profits. To take advantage of these opportunities, conducting thorough research on the UAE’s audience, market, and regulations is essential.
Once you have gained a comprehensive understanding, you can select a suitable business activity, such as imports or exports, e-commerce, consultancy, IT, etc. Performing a SWOT analysis can help you make a practical and informed decision.
Choose a location
Once you have chosen the industry for your business, the next crucial decision is whether to launch in the mainland or a free zone. If you decide to establish your business in a free zone, you can enjoy several advantages, including:
- Zero corporate and personal taxes
- Complete ownership of your company
- Full repatriation of capital and profits
- No currency restrictions
- 100% exemption from import and export taxes
If you intend to conduct business directly with the local market in the UAE, you will require the services of a mainland company, which will charge a fee.
Alternatively, if you launch your business on the mainland, you can trade directly with local and international markets. However, you must work with a local sponsor who will hold the company’s shares unless your industry is professional services.
Reservation of Business Name
After compiling a list of all the business activities, choosing a name for your company that complies with all the government’s conventions is crucial. It is essential to follow all guidelines to avoid any delays in the registration process. While selecting a name, avoiding any language that conveys impoliteness, insults, or religious beliefs is advisable.
License Application
Once you have obtained all the necessary documents and approvals, you can submit your business application. If you set up your business on the mainland, the Department of Economic Development (DED) will approve and issue licenses for your company.
However, independent regulatory authorities will grant the license if you wish to establish your business in a free zone. It will depend on the nature of your business. This can range from a salon business idea to any other business.
Office Space Requirements
You must attach a business address to your trade license to complete a company setup in Dubai. Even if you don’t require physical office space, your business must fulfil this requirement.
If you apply for a Dubai onshore license, you’ll need an attached certified Ejari lease agreement. Present the Ejari copy to Dubai Economy to obtain the trade license. Most free zones offer various types of business premises. It includes virtual offices, flexi desks, smart desks, shared offices, permanent smart offices, and warehouses.
Depending on your business activity, location, and the number of UAE residency visas you require, each business premises type can satisfy your company licensing requirements.
Open a Bank Account
Once you obtain your trade license and an approved company name, you can open a bank account to cater to your business’s financial needs. Dubai and the UAE generally have a wide range of high-standard and high-quality banks.
You can select a bank by either approaching them yourself or hiring the services of company formation experts to approach the banks on your behalf or arrange meetings with them to help you select the best option.
Find a Local Sponsor
A local sponsor is mandatory to establish a business setup in the UAE. The UAE government mandates that a local sponsor hold the majority of shares and participate in managerial decision-making to operate a regional business.
Negotiating the annual fee your sponsor will receive is essential, as this will be crucial to your business setup. Building a strong relationship with your sponsor is also vital, as they will be instrumental in dealing with authorities and overcoming any obstacles in setting up your business.
Apply for a visa
The final step in starting a business in Dubai is to apply for visas. Free zones often allow you to apply for visas for your staff and dependents, but the number of visas you can apply for may vary depending on the free zone. If you plan to sponsor a spouse, child, maid, or driver for a visa, it’s best to seek expert advice to ensure that it’s possible to do so in your chosen free zone and that you and your dependents meet the entry criteria.
By following these steps, you can start your business in Dubai. This city offers a flourishing business landscape, government incentives, and an easy setup process for new enterprises. Whether you’re at the beginning of your Dubai journey, it’s essential to consider these points and seek professional advice throughout the process. www.huffpost.cc