The UAE has become a global hub for business, offering opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators alike. Its strategic location, investor-friendly policies, and tax incentives make it an attractive destination for starting a business. But for newcomers, understanding the process of company formation can be challenging. At BFG Advisory, we guide you every step of the way to make the process seamless and hassle-free.
Step 1: Decide the Type of Company
Before registering your business, it’s important to decide the type of company you want to establish. Common options in the UAE include:
Limited Liability Company (LLC): Suitable for local and international investors, requires a local partner.
Free Zone Company: Offers 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of profits, and simplified compliance.
Branch Office: Allows foreign companies to operate in the UAE under their parent company’s license.
Sole Proprietorship: Ideal for individual entrepreneurs.
Choosing the right structure affects ownership, taxation, and licensing requirements.
Step 2: Select a Business Activity
The UAE requires businesses to specify their activity during registration. This determines the type of license you need:
Commercial License – For trading activities
Professional License – For service-based businesses
Industrial License – For manufacturing or production
Your choice of activity also influences the documents needed and the applicable regulations.
Step 3: Choose a Business Location
The location of your business plays a critical role in company formation:
Mainland: Offers wider market access and the ability to trade directly within the UAE.
Free Zone: Provides tax benefits, 100% foreign ownership, and simplified setup.
Each option has its advantages depending on your business goals.
Step 4: Register Your Company Name
A memorable and compliant company name is crucial. The UAE has rules regarding names:
Avoid offensive or religious terms
Do not copy existing company names
Include the activity type in some cases
BFG Advisory helps you choose a name that is both meaningful and approved by authorities.
Step 5: Obtain Licenses and Approvals
After finalizing your company structure, activity, and location, you must obtain the necessary licenses. This includes:
Trade license issuance
Initial approvals from relevant authorities
Registration with the Chamber of Commerce
We ensure all documentation is accurate and compliant to prevent delays.
Step 6: Open a Corporate Bank Account
Once the company is legally registered, opening a corporate bank account is the next step. UAE banks require:
Trade license copy
Shareholder and director documents
Proof of business activity
BFG Advisory assists in selecting the right bank and preparing the required documents.
Step 7: Hire Staff and Begin Operations
With all approvals and accounts in place, you can hire employees, set up operations, and officially launch your business in the UAE.
Why Choose BFG Advisory for Company Setup
Starting a company in the UAE can seem complex, but BFG Advisory simplifies the process. We provide:
End-to-end guidance from planning to launch
Expert advice on legal structures and licenses
Efficient processing to save time and avoid errors
Ongoing support for compliance and expansion