What are the ways to establish a company in Dubai for foreigners in 2022? Dubai is considered one of the most prominent global destinations for business and investment, thanks to its dynamic economic environment and advanced infrastructure. In 2022, Dubai continues to enhance its appeal as an ideal destination for foreigners wishing to establish new companies, offering a range of options and opportunities to suit various types of business activities. Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners includes several basic steps, starting with choosing the type of company and scope of work, all the way to adhering to legal regulations and obtaining the necessary licenses. In this article, we will review the most prominent methods and directions for establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners , and provide an in-depth look at the procedures and requirements necessary to achieve the success of your project in this leading global city.

Ways to establish a company in Dubai for foreigners 2022
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Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners can be a strategic step towards success and growth in a thriving global market. However, the legal and administrative challenges can be complex. Here comes the importance of using Itqan Company, which is an ideal partner to simplify the establishment process. Itqan Company offers a comprehensive range of services that include legal consultations, licensing and registration procedures, ensuring that your company complies with all local requirements effortlessly. Through its extensive experience in the UAE market, Itqan contributes to accelerating procedures and reducing obstacles, saving you time and effort. Itqan’s services also include providing support in choosing the appropriate free zone, preparing documents, obtaining visas, and providing advice on labor and trade laws in Dubai. This way, Itqan allows you to focus on developing your business while it handles the legal and administrative details. Thanks to this cooperation, you can benefit from the favorable business environment in Dubai with ease, enhancing the chances of success of your project in one of the fastest growing economies in the world.
Ways to establish a company in Dubai for foreigners 2022
In 2022, Dubai offers foreigners several ways to set up companies, reflecting its commitment to enhancing the business environment and attracting international investments. Here are the most prominent ways to establish a company in Dubai for foreigners:
- Establishment in free zones : Dubai includes many free zones that provide great facilities to foreigners, such as the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) and the Dubai Silicon Oasis zone. These areas provide full ownership for foreigners, tax facilities, and simplified registration procedures. These areas are ideal for companies looking to benefit from an advanced business environment and modern infrastructure.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) : Foreigners can establish limited liability companies in Dubai in cooperation with a local partner who owns 51% of the shares, according to local laws. However, some exceptions are available under new legislation that allows foreigners to fully own companies in some sectors.
- Offshore companies : Dubai also offers options for establishing offshore companies, which provide certain characteristics such as confidentiality and flexibility in managing the business. Offshore companies are registered in free zones such as the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) or the Jebel Ali area.
- Branch of a foreign company : Foreign companies can open branches in Dubai without the need for a local partner. Foreign companies wishing to open a branch must follow the procedures specified by the Dubai Economic Development Department (DED) and submit the necessary documents.
- Special commercial licenses : Different types of commercial licenses are available in Dubai, such as industrial, commercial, and service licenses. Choosing the appropriate license depends on the type of business activity you want to practice.
Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners requires following specific legal procedures and ensuring compliance with local requirements, but the city provides an enabling environment that helps achieve success and growth for new businesses.
Advantages of establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners
Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners comes with a host of advantages that make it an attractive destination for investment and business. Here are the most prominent features:
- Full ownership : In many free zones, foreigners can own the entire company without the need for a local partner, providing greater flexibility in running the business.
- Tax exemptions : Dubai provides a favorable tax environment, as it provides income tax exemptions for companies and individuals, which reduces operational costs and increases profitability.
- Ease of procedures : Simplified procedures and government facilities contribute to accelerating the company establishment process, enabling investors to start their business quickly and efficiently.
- Advanced infrastructure : Dubai provides world-class infrastructure, including modern facilities and an advanced transportation network, which contributes to facilitating commercial operations and logistical transportation.
- Investment incentives : Dubai offers multiple incentives to investors, including government support and services for new projects, which enhances the chances of success and growth.
- International business environment : Dubai is a global business hub, providing opportunities to network with a wide network of international companies and global markets.
- Easy access to financing : Dubai provides a variety of financing options, including banks and investors, making it easier to secure the capital needed to develop a business.
Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners allows them to take advantage of these advantages, making it a preferred option for expansion and growth in a global market.
The cost of establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners
The cost of establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners depends on several factors related to the type of company, its location, and the type of business activity. Here’s an overview of potential costs:
- Company Registration : The cost of registering with the Department of Economic Development (DED) or free zone includes licensing and registration fees. These fees vary based on the type of company and business activity.
- Licenses : The cost of licenses varies based on the type of business activity (commercial, industrial, service) and the scope of work. Costs can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dirhams.
- Office rent : In free zones, rent is often included in the establishment package. In non-free zones, you may need to rent an office separately, and the rental cost varies depending on location and space.
- Visas : Visa costs include fees for issuing work and residence visas for investors and employees. These fees can range depending on the number and type of visas required.
- Legal consulting fees : If you use a consulting company such as Itqan, costs may include consulting fees, preparing documents, and providing assistance with legal procedures.
- Administrative expenses : Administrative expenses include fees for dealing with government agencies, registration in chambers of commerce, and opening a bank account.

The cost of establishing a company in Dubai
Procedures for establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners
Establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners requires following a series of legal and administrative procedures to ensure that the company complies with local regulations and obtains the necessary licenses. Here’s an overview of the basic procedures:
- Determine the type of company and activity : Choose the type of company you wish to establish, such as a limited liability company (LLC), a branch of a foreign company, or a company in a free zone. Determine what business you will be doing to ensure you have the appropriate licenses.
- Choosing a business name : Choose a business name that complies with local laws. Make sure that the name is not reserved or violates the standards specified by the Dubai Economic Development Department (DED) or the competent authority in the free zone.
- Preparing documents : Prepare and submit the necessary documents, such as passport, visas, and articles of incorporation, in addition to local partners’ approvals if needed.
- Company Registration : Submit an application to register the company with the Department of Economic Development (DED) if you are registering in non-free zones, or with the relevant authority if you are registering in a free zone. Registration includes obtaining a business license and opening a company file.
- Open a bank account : Open a bank account in the name of the company to facilitate financial transactions. You may need to submit documents related to the company’s incorporation.
- Obtaining licenses : Obtain the necessary licenses according to the type of business activity, such as commercial, industrial, or service licenses.
- Visa Secure : Apply for work and residency visas for partners and employees, according to local requirements.
- Assign an office : Obtain an office or work space according to legal requirements. In free zones, the office may be provided within the establishment package.
- Registration with government agencies : Register your company with other government agencies as needed, such as the Chamber of Commerce, tax authorities, and local departments.
- Starting a business : After completing all procedures and obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, you can start your business and carry out your commercial operations legally.
Specialized consulting companies, such as Itqan, can contribute to facilitating these procedures and ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.
In conclusion, establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners is a distinct strategic step towards success in the global business market. Thanks to its favorable business environment, advanced infrastructure, and government facilities, Dubai offers golden opportunities for international investors. However, establishing a company in Dubai requires taking into consideration many legal and administrative factors and procedures. Hiring a specialized consulting company, such as Itqan, can greatly contribute to simplifying this process and avoiding potential obstacles. By understanding all aspects of incorporation and proper planning, foreigners can make the most of the opportunities available in Dubai. Investing in Dubai not only enhances the economic growth of a business, but also opens up broad prospects for expansion and growth in a dynamic global market.
Yes, in many free zones foreigners can fully own companies without the need for a local partner. However, in non-free zones, the law may require a local partner to own 51% of the shares. The basic procedures include choosing the company type, defining the business activity, registering the trade name, preparing documents, submitting a company registration application, obtaining the required licenses, and opening a bank account. Costs include registration fees, licenses, office rent, work and residency visas, and legal consultation fees. Costs vary based on company type and location. Dubai provides tax exemptions on corporate and individual income, which reduces operational costs. One can also benefit from favorable tax policies in free zones.Frequently asked questions about establishing a company in Dubai for foreigners
Can foreigners fully own a company in Dubai?
What are the basic procedures for establishing a company in Dubai?
What are the costs associated with setting up a company in Dubai?
What are the tax benefits of establishing a company in Dubai?