If you’re new to Dubai, ensure you have a tourist/visit visa – if you don't have a valid entry visa, you won't be able to set up a business.
Then, all new businesses require the following documents for initial approval:
- Copy of the licensee’s passport (if a foreigner) or Emirates ID (if Emirati/Resident)
- Copy of the applicant’s residence permit/visa (for non-GCC nationals)
- The company’s articles of association (not applicable for a one-person limited liability company)
For public shareholding companies and private joint-stock companies, you will also require:
- A feasibility study of the project
Branches of companies based in other emirates also require:
- The parent company’s board resolution to open a branch in Dubai
- A letter of authorisation from the managing director
- A copy of the parent company’s commercial registration certificate
- A copy of the parent company’s memorandum of association (MoA)
Branches of foreign or free zone companies also require:
- A copy of the parent company’s licence
The documents of the parent company should be attested and legalised with the UAE Embassy and Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country of origin, and counter attested with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE. The documents also need to be legally translated in Arabic and attested by the Ministry of Justice in the UAE.
