Setting up a business on the mainland in Dubai is an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs. It offers access to the local market, government contracts, and a strong economy. However, before you can launch your business, it’s essential to have all the necessary documentation in place for a smooth registration process. Here’s a breakdown of the key documents required for mainland business setup in Dubai.
Passport copies:
One of the most basic requirements for registering a mainland business in Dubai is providing copies of the passports of all shareholders, partners, and managers involved in the business. These copies should be clear and valid. If the business is a partnership or joint venture, each partner’s passport copy will be required.
UAE residence visa and Emirates ID:
If any of the shareholders or partners are UAE residents, a copy of their UAE residence visa and Emirates ID must be provided. These documents help establish the legal residency status of those involved in the business and are essential for processing the company’s registration.
No objection certificate (NOC) from current sponsor:
For individuals who are currently employed in the UAE and are planning to start a business, a No objection certificate (NOC) from their current sponsor is required. This document confirms that the individual’s sponsor has no objections to them starting a business while employed. This requirement applies to employees holding valid UAE work visas.
Trade name reservation certificate:
Before registering a business in Dubai, you must choose a unique name for your company. The trade name should reflect the nature of your business and adhere to the UAE’s naming regulations. Once chosen, you will need to submit a trade name reservation application to the Department of Economic Development (DED). A certificate confirming the approval of your trade name is an essential document for registration.
Initial approval from DED:
After submitting the trade name reservation, the next step is obtaining initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED). This document is issued by the DED and grants you permission to proceed with the business registration process. It is an essential step before finalizing the registration and obtaining your business license.
Memorandum of association (MOA) or local service agent agreement:
Depending on your business structure, you may need to provide a Memorandum of association (MOA) if you’re setting up a limited liability company (LLC) or an agreement with a local service agent if you’re a foreign national. The MOA outlines the ownership and operational structure of the company, while the local service agent agreement is essential for businesses with foreign investors.