There are some conditions for opening a company in the Emirates that we will learn about because the United Arab Emirates is characterized by a developed and stimulating investment environment that makes it one of the most important global destinations for opening companies and businesses. The UAE offers many opportunities and privileges that attract entrepreneurs and investors from all over the world. However, there are several conditions and procedures that must be followed to open a company in the UAE, whether it is a local company or a company in a free zone. Foreign investors who want to open a company in the UAE must obtain a local partner, according to the UAE Companies Law. The local partner can be an individual or a local company, and its ownership percentage must be at least 51% of the capital. We will learn more information through our article.

Conditions for opening a company in the Emirates
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ToggleConditions for opening a company in the Emirates
Opening a company in the UAE requires compliance with several conditions and procedures. Here are the most important general conditions to take into account:
- Company type: You must specify the type of company you wish to open, whether it is a sole proprietorship, limited liability company, or partnership.
- Local partner: For private and public joint stock companies, there must be a local partner who owns at least 51% of the company’s share. As for companies in free zones, a foreign company can own 100% of the company.
- Minimum capital: The minimum capital required for the company must be determined, which varies depending on the type of company and where it is established.
- Activity permit: The company’s activity must be determined and the necessary permits must be obtained from the competent government authorities.
- Trade name: A trade name for the company must be chosen that complies with local laws and legislation, and registered with the competent authorities.
- Required documents: The required documents must be submitted, such as shareholders’ passports and experience certificates, if any, and the necessary contracts must be signed.
- Place of incorporation of the company: The place of incorporation of the company must be determined, whether within a specific emirate or in a free zone.
- Tax Declarations: The necessary tax permits must be obtained from government agencies.
- Social Insurance: Emirati employees in the company must be committed to providing insurance.
These are some basic conditions, and the exact conditions may vary depending on the type of company and the emirate in which you are located. Therefore, it is best to consult a legal or business consultant to ensure full compliance with the terms and local laws.
A commercial license to establish a company in the Emirates
To obtain a commercial license to establish a company in the UAE, you must follow the following steps:
- Determine the type of company: Before starting the establishment process, you must determine the type of company you wish to establish, whether it is an individual company, a joint stock company, or a company in a free zone.
- Choosing a trade name: A trade name must be chosen for the company that complies with and is available in local laws, and must be registered with the relevant government agencies.
- Determine the commercial activity: The company’s commercial activity must be determined and the necessary activity permits must be obtained from government agencies.
- Determine the place of incorporation: The place of incorporation of the company must be determined, whether it is within a specific emirate or in a free zone.
- Determine the capital: The minimum capital required to establish the company must be determined and provided in the company’s account.
- Submitting documents: The required documents must be submitted, such as passports of shareholders and partners, experience certificates, if any, and signing of the necessary contracts.
- Payment of fees: The fees required to issue a commercial license must be paid.
- Receiving the license: After fulfilling all conditions and procedures, a commercial license is issued that allows the business to start.
These steps constitute the basic procedures for obtaining a commercial license to establish a company in the Emirates, and the exact procedures may vary depending on the type of company and the emirate in which it is located.
The cost of opening a company in the Emirates without a price
Opening a company in the UAE involves various costs that vary depending on the type of company, emirate, commercial activity and other factors. Here is a list of common costs you may face when opening a company in the UAE:
- Company establishment fees: These fees include the costs of establishing the company and registering it in the commercial registry.
- Commercial license fees: Paid to obtain a commercial license that allows the practice of commercial activity.
- Permits and Licenses Fees: You may need to pay additional fees to obtain permits and licenses for your business.
- Additional services fees: such as renting an office, legal and accounting consulting services, tax registration, social insurance, and others.
- Necessary capital: You may be required to provide the necessary capital for your company, which varies depending on the type of company and local laws.
- Visa and residency fees: If you need work visas for foreign employees, you may need to pay additional fees.
- Value Added Tax (VAT): You must register your company with the Federal Tax Authority and pay VAT when the company’s annual revenue exceeds the specified limit.
- Marketing and promotion costs: to introduce your company and its services to potential customers.
These are just some of the points that may affect the cost of opening a company in the UAE, and costs can vary greatly based on several factors. Therefore, it is best to consult Etqan Company to obtain an accurate estimate of the expected costs for your potential company.

A commercial license to establish a company in the Emirates
The importance of opening a company in the Emirates
Opening a company in the Emirates has many benefits and importance, the most prominent of which is that the Emirates is considered one of the fastest growing economies in the world, which makes it an ideal environment for starting a business, in addition to the following:
- Access to regional and global markets: Thanks to its strategic location and the strong presence of international companies, the UAE provides great opportunities to access local, regional and global markets.
- Advanced infrastructure: The UAE has advanced infrastructure and high-quality services, which facilitates the process of establishing and operating companies.
- Liberal Laws: The UAE is characterized by liberal trade laws and a legislative environment that encourages business.
- Cultural and linguistic diversity: The UAE is considered a multicultural and multilingual environment, which facilitates dealing with clients and partners from different cultures.
- Incentives and privileges: The UAE offers many incentives and privileges to new companies, such as tax exemption for a limited period in some free zones.
- Political and social stability: The UAE enjoys a stable political and social environment, which makes it a safe place for investment and establishing companies.
- Based on these benefits, it can be said that opening a company in the UAE represents an important strategic step for those wishing to expand their business and take advantage of the economic opportunities available in the country.
Tips for opening a company in the Emirates
First, you must conduct comprehensive research about the job market, competition, and market needs before starting the opening process. Here are some important tips for opening a company in the UAE:
- Consult a professional legal advisor such as the experts of Itqan Company for advice on local laws and legislation related to establishing companies.
- Choose the appropriate type for your company, whether it is a sole proprietorship, joint stock company, or free zone company, based on the type of activity and business needs.
- Develop a detailed financial plan outlining start-up costs, day-to-day operation, and expected revenue estimates.
- Choose a trade name that is unique and appropriate to your company’s activity, and make sure to register it with the competent authorities.
- Choose a location suitable for your company, appropriate to the type of activity and providing easy access for customers and suppliers.
- Submit the necessary documents and complete the legal procedures to obtain the necessary licenses and authorizations.
- Develop an effective marketing plan to promote your company and attract new customers.
- Regularly monitor your company’s performance and evaluate results to improve operations and achieve goals.
- Ensure compliance with all local and international laws and legislation relevant to your company’s activity. By following these tips, you can achieve success in opening a company in the UAE and building a successful and sustainable business.
At the conclusion of this article, it can be said that opening a company in the Emirates is an important strategic step for those wishing to enter the world of entrepreneurship and explore the investment opportunities available in this wonderful country. The UAE provides an inspiring and stimulating economic environment, with advanced infrastructure and liberal trade laws that attract companies and investors from all over the world. By adhering to local laws and legislation, good planning, and choosing the appropriate type of company, those who want to succeed can achieve their goals and build a successful company in the Emirates. Certainly, this process requires a lot of work and dedication, but with grit and determination, success and prosperity can be achieved in the UAE business market.
Frequently asked questions about opening a company in the UAE
Can I open a company in the free zones without a local partner?
Yes, in free zones, foreign companies can own 100% of the company’s share without the need for a local partner.
What are the main benefits of opening a company in the UAE?
Key benefits include an advanced investment environment, access to regional and global markets, liberal trade legislation, and government incentives.
What are the expected fees for opening a company in the UAE?
Fees vary based on the type of company, location and business activity, and can range from several thousand to several tens of thousands of dirhams.
Do I have to have a local partner in the company?
In the case of some types of companies, such as joint-stock companies, there must be a local partner who owns at least 51% of the company’s share.