As a UAE legal professional dedicated to helping businesses thrive in our dynamic market, I'm pleased to present this comprehensive guide to establishing your business in the UAE.
Two Primary Setup Options:
- Fast Track: Bashr eService
- Complete setup in 15 minutes
- Fully integrated with government entities
- Instant license issuance
- Available online 24/7
- Traditional Setup Process (Detailed steps below)
Essential Steps for Business Establishment:
Step #1: Define Your Business Activity
- Choose from 6 license types:
- Commercial
- Industrial
- Professional
- Tourism
- Agricultural
- Occupational
- Note: You can select multiple activities under one license
Step #2: Select Legal Structure
Choose the most suitable option:
- LLC (most common)
- Partnership (General/Limited)
- Joint Stock Company (Public/Private)
- Sole Establishment
- Branch Office Options
Step #3: Register Trade Name
Requirements:
- Must include legal structure (LLC, EST, etc.)
- Must be unique and available
- Cannot include religious/government references
- Must align with business activity
Step #4: Obtain Initial Approval
Key points:
- Government non-objection status
- Foreign investors need GDRFA approval
- Special activities may require additional permits
Step #5: Legal Documentation
Prepare and attest:
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Local Service Agent agreement (for non-GCC)
- All documents must be notarized
Step #6: Secure Business Location
Requirements:
- Valid lease agreement
- Municipality compliance
- Ejari registration (Dubai)
- Location suitable for activity
See also: Corporate Tax Calculator
Step #7: Additional Approvals
Sector-specific permits from:
- Ministry of Interior
- Ministry of Justice
- TDRA
- Local Health Departments
- Other relevant authorities
Step #8: License Issuance
Submit:
- Initial approval documents
- Attested lease contract
- MOA/LSA documents
- All relevant approvals
- License fee payment
Critical Reminders:
- Pay license fees within 30 days
- Keep all documents properly attested
- Ensure timely renewals
- Maintain regulatory compliance
Professional Tips:
- Begin documentation early
- Double-check all requirements
- Consider professional assistance for complex setups
- Plan for annual compliance requirements
Need specific guidance? Our team is committed to ensuring your successful establishment in the UAE market. We're here to help at every step of your business journey.
What is BASHER?
BASHER is a government platform that provides services to establish and conduct business. BASHER provides an integrated package that has been developed as one of the initiatives of the Proactive Services Department of Ministry of Possibilities in the United Arab Emirates.
BASHER offers a unique digital experience to explore the market, register your business and get approvals and business documents for doing business in simple steps, allowing investors to begin running their business immediately.
BASHER offers a unique digital experience to explore the market, register your business and get approvals and business documents for doing business in simple steps, allowing investors to begin running their business immediately.
As a foreign investor, what are the must-know legal requirements?
Foreign investors have specific requirements to navigate. Here's what you absolutely need:
#1 Key Requirements:
- GDRFA approval before initial business approval
- Local Service Agent (LSA) if 100% foreign-owned
- Properly attested legal documentation
- Physical UAE business location
#2 Critical Notes:
- LSA must be a UAE national
- Documents need UAE embassy attestation
- Certain activities have foreign ownership restrictions
- Memorandum of Association must be notarized
#1 Key Requirements:
- GDRFA approval before initial business approval
- Local Service Agent (LSA) if 100% foreign-owned
- Properly attested legal documentation
- Physical UAE business location
#2 Critical Notes:
- LSA must be a UAE national
- Documents need UAE embassy attestation
- Certain activities have foreign ownership restrictions
- Memorandum of Association must be notarized
What are the most common mistakes to avoid during the setup process?
When establishing your UAE business, three critical areas demand careful attention: proper documentation with correct attestation, strategic location selection that aligns with your business activity and local regulations, and choosing the right legal structure and license type for your operations. These fundamental elements often become stumbling blocks, but with proper planning and professional guidance, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth setup process. Remember: investing in proper initial setup is always more cost-effective than correcting issues later.
