Starting a finance company in the UAE is not just about launching a business — it’s about stepping into a growing market that attracts investors from all over the world. The UAE is known for its stable economy, transparent regulations, and tax-friendly environment. Dubai is a hotspot for entrepreneurs because of its global connectivity and business-friendly infrastructure.
Whether you’re planning to offer loans, investment advice, wealth management, or other financial solutions, you’ll first need to go through the right legal steps. This includes choosing the right business structure, completing your Finance Business Setup in Dubai, and securing a UAE Financial Services License. With the right planning and understanding of the process, you can start a finance company in UAE and position yourself for long-term success in a competitive but rewarding industry.
Why Start a Finance Company in UAE?
Here are some strong reasons to start a finance company in the UAE:
Gateway to Global Markets
The UAE, especially Dubai, is a global business hub connecting the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Africa, offering access to diverse markets.
Tax-Friendly Business Environment
No personal income tax and competitive corporate tax rates make it an attractive destination for financial services companies.
Strong Financial Infrastructure
The presence of international banks, advanced payment systems, and strong capital markets supports smooth business operations.
UAE Financial Services License Availability
Clear regulations by bodies like the Central Bank, DFSA, and ADGM allow businesses to obtain a legal UAE Financial Services License and operate professionally.
Booming Economy & Investment Opportunities
Strong GDP growth, a thriving trade sector, and foreign investment inflow create demand for financial services.
Streamlined Business Setup Process
Streamlined company setup processes, including finance business setup in Dubai, make starting operations faster and more efficient.
Access to a Multinational Clientele
A large expatriate population and multinational companies in the UAE need financial consultancy, lending, and investment services.
Free Zone Advantages
100% foreign ownership, profit return, and simplified regulations in UAE free zones make it even more appealing.
Innovative & Digital-First Environment
The UAE government promotes fintech, blockchain, and AI-powered financial solutions, opening doors for innovative finance companies.
Types of Finance Companies You Can Start in the UAE
Here’s the types of finance companies you can start in the UAE, each serves different financial needs and is regulated under the UAE’s licensing framework:
1. Investment & Asset Management Companies
- What they do: Manage client funds, create investment portfolios, and offer wealth management solutions.
- Examples: Mutual fund management firms, portfolio managers, private equity firms.
- License needed: Asset Management License from the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) or Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
2. Loan & Credit Facilities Companies
- What they do: Provide personal, business, or vehicle loans and credit facilities to individuals and companies.
- Examples: Auto finance companies, SME lending firms, micro-lending agencies.
- License needed: Approval from the UAE Central Bank.
3. Financial Consultancy & Advisory Firms
- What they do: Offer financial planning, feasibility studies, risk analysis, and business valuation services.
- Examples: Corporate finance consultancies, personal financial advisors.
- License needed: Financial Consultancy License from the Department of Economic Development (DED) and relevant approvals.
4. Foreign Exchange (Forex) & Currency Exchange Houses
- What they do: Facilitate currency exchange, remittances, and foreign money transfers.
- Examples: Exchange houses, forex brokers.
- License needed: Central Bank of UAE Exchange License.
5. Payment Services & FinTech Companies
- What they do: Provide digital payment solutions, e-wallets, online money transfers, and payment gateways.
- Examples: Mobile payment apps, cryptocurrency exchanges (with special approvals).
- License needed: Central Bank or DIFC Innovation License (depending on activity).
6. Insurance & Reinsurance Companies
- What they do: Provide life, health, general, or reinsurance services.
- Examples: Life insurance firms, property & casualty insurers, reinsurance providers.
- License needed: UAE Insurance Authority approval.
7. Brokerage Firms
- What they do: Facilitate the buying and selling of shares, bonds, and other securities.
- Examples: Stock brokerage, commodities trading firms.
- License needed: Securities & Commodities Authority (SCA) License.
Key Regulatory Authorities in the UAE
Here’s a list of the key regulatory authorities in the UAE that oversee different types of finance companies and financial activities:
- Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE)
- Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA)
- Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA)
- Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA)
- UAE Insurance Authority (now merged under CBUAE)
- Department of Economic Development (DED)
Step-by-Step Guide to Start a Finance Company in UAE 2025
Starting a finance company in the UAE can be highly profitable due to its growing economy, investor-friendly laws, and global position. Whether you want to open a finance company in Dubai or provide financial consultancy across the Emirates, following the right process ensures a smooth setup.
Step 1: Define Your Business Activity & Model
First, decide what type of finance business you want to operate. This could include:
- Financial Consultancy Business UAE – advising on investments, budgeting, and strategies.
- Loan and credit facilities.
- Investment fund management.
- Wealth and asset management.
A clear business model helps in selecting the correct UAE Financial Services License.
Step 2: Choose a Legal Structure
Select the right business structure for your Finance Business Setup in Dubai:
- Mainland Company: Operate anywhere in the UAE without restrictions.
- Free Zone Company: Tax benefits, 100% foreign ownership, but limited to free zone jurisdiction.
Step 3: Apply for Initial Approval
Submit an initial approval application to the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the respective free zone authority. You must provide:
- Passport copies of shareholders.
- Business plan outlining your finance company model.
- Proposed trade name.
Step 4: Obtain the UAE Financial Services License
For any finance business setup in Dubai, you must obtain the UAE Financial Services License from regulatory authorities such as:
- Central Bank of the UAE (for lending, credit facilities, and investment services).
- Securities and Commodities Authority (for trading and investment funds).
This license ensures legal compliance for your financial consultancy business in UAE.
Step 5: Secure Office Space
Regulations often require finance companies to have a physical office in the UAE. Choose an office that meets licensing body requirements — in a mainland or free zone location.
Step 6: Prepare Documentation & Submit Final Application
Required documents may include:
- Business plan and feasibility study.
- Proof of paid-up share capital (if applicable).
- Tenancy contract for office space.
- Compliance documents as per financial regulations.
Step 7: Open a Corporate Bank Account
To open a finance company in Dubai, you must set up a UAE corporate bank account. The bank will require your trade license, shareholder documents, and a detailed explanation of your business activities.
Step 8: Comply with Ongoing Regulatory Requirements
After starting your finance business setup in Dubai, you must maintain compliance by:
- Filing annual financial reports.
- Following anti-money laundering (AML) and KYC policies.
- Renewing your UAE financial services license annually.
Step 9: Partner with Shuraa UK for easy business Setup
Setting up a finance company involves complex procedures, legal compliance, and licensing requirements. Shuraa UK offers end-to-end services to help you:
- Select the right business structure.
- Obtain the UAE Financial Services License.
- Handle documentation, approvals, and bank account setup.
With Shuraa UK’s expert guidance, you can start a finance company in UAE quickly, cost-effectively, and with full legal compliance.
Documents Required to Start a Finance Company in UAE
Below are the basic documents required to start a finance company in the UAE:
- Passport copies
- Visa copies
- Emirates ID copies (if applicable).
- Recent passport-size photographs of all stakeholders.
- Trade Name Reservation Certificate.
- Initial Approval Certificate from the licensing authority.
- Business Plan
Cost of Starting a Finance Company in the UAE
The cost of starting a finance company in the UAE typically ranges from AED 12,900* to AED 25,500*. The exact cost depends on several factors, such as the business structure, chosen location, and licensing requirements. For an accurate quote customised to your business plan, contact our Shuraa UK experts today.
Build Your Financial Future in the UAE with Shuraa UK!
Starting a finance company in the UAE is more than just a business decision — it’s an opportunity to be part of one of the world’s fastest-growing financial hubs. With its stable economy, investor-friendly regulations, and tax advantages, the UAE offers the perfect environment for finance entrepreneurs.
Whether your goal is to provide investment advice, launch a Financial Consultancy Business UAE, or offer innovative digital payment solutions, following the right steps for your Finance Business Setup in Dubai and securing your UAE Financial Services License will set you on the path to success.
From choosing the right structure to completing legal requirements and opening a corporate bank account, every stage plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations. With expert partners like Shuraa UK, you can simplify the process, avoid costly delays, and open a Finance Company in Dubai with complete legal compliance. Now is the time to turn your vision into a thriving business and establish your place in the UAE’s dynamic financial landscape.
