EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT COMPANIES IN THE UAE

  • Types of companies in the UAE and requirements for them

    Mainland company:
    • Allows you to operate in the UAE local markets and internationally without restrictions.
    • Physical office space is required.
    • Must have at least one director, no maximum limit.
    A free zone company:
    • Can be 100% foreign owned.
    • Limited to activities in the free zone and internationally.
    • Offers full repatriation of profits and no import or export taxes.
    • Virtual offices are permitted in some free zones, but physical office space may be required depending on the free zone's authority and business activity.
    • Most free zones allow 100% foreign ownership and have flexible requirements for directors and shareholders.
    Offshore company:
    • Ideal for businesses that do not require a physical presence in the UAE.
    • Cannot operate in the UAE, but can own real estate in designated zones.
    • No physical offices are required in the UAE.
    • Usually, at least one director and shareholder are required, who can be one person or a legal entity.

    Sign up for a consultation with us, we will help you choose the type of company in the UAE. The first consultation is free of charge.
  • Registration process

    Depends on the jurisdiction (mainland or free zone).
    Includes:
    • choosing the type of activity and legal form.
    • applying for a trade name and obtaining initial permits.
    • Concluding a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)/Articles of Association and obtaining the necessary licenses.
    • Free zones usually offer a simplified process with less paperwork and do not require a local sponsor.
  • Bank account

    Opening a corporate bank account in the UAE requires personal meetings and a significant amount of paperwork.
    The process may be easier in free zones.
    International banks in the UAE can offer simpler procedures for non-residents.

    We help to open a company in any zone on a turnkey basis with a bank account.
  • Taxes

    • There is no corporate tax on most businesses, except for foreign banks and oil companies.
    • VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services. Companies in the free zone may have different VAT liabilities depending on their activities.
  • Compliance

    Generally, companies are required to renew their trade license annually, keep proper accounting records and comply with any audit requirements. Free zone companies may be required to submit annual audits.

    You don't have to worry about anything when you work with us. We will always inform you in advance of any requirements.
  • Employment and obtaining a visa

    Companies can sponsor employees, including non-resident directors and shareholders, to obtain a UAE residence visa.

    The number of visas available may depend on the size of the office and the type of activity of the company.

    Companies in free zones usually have an easier process for obtaining visas for their employees.
  • Protection of intellectual property

    The UAE has strict IP protection laws in place in line with international standards. Companies must register their trademarks, patents, and copyrights to protect their intellectual property rights in the UAE.

    We have registered dozens of trademarks and know all the nuances.
  • Privacy

    The UAE does not have public registers of company ownership for offshore companies and companies in free zones, which ensures a high degree of confidentiality. Information about shareholders of mainland companies is becoming more accessible.
  • Access to the market

    The UAE's strategic location provides access to markets in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe. An extensive infrastructure of ports and airports facilitates international trade.
  • Legal assistance

    The UAE legal system consists of a dual system of Sharia and civil law.
    Understanding the legal implications of business transactions, contracts and disputes in the UAE is critical for non-residents.

    It is recommended that professional legal advice be sought to ensure legal compliance and protection of interests.

Get a consultation

Phone: +380 73 250 9731
E-mail: info@sherstiuk.legal
Communication in messengers
+380 73 250 9731
info@sherstiuk.legal
© 2024 sherstiuk.legal
All rights reserved
SHERSTIUK.LEGAL
The information on this website is not legal advice and is for informational purposes only. All materials, graphics and titles are copyrighted. Use and/or copying is permitted only with the consent of the site owner.
legal decisions