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LLC company formation in Dubai

How To Set Up A Limited Liability Company In Dubai, UAE

Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) are a popular choice for entrepreneurs looking to establish a business in Dubai, UAE. Setting up an LLC can be a strategic move for entrepreneurs looking to establish a presence in the Middle East. LLC company formation in Dubai offers a number of benefits, including limited liability protection for shareholders and the ability to conduct business in a tax-friendly environment.  Dubai is an attractive location for setting up an LLC due to its business-friendly policies, strategic location, and growing economy. The city serves as a hub for trade and commerce in the region which makes it an ideal base for businesses.  Therefore, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on LLC company formation in Dubai, its benefits, costs, and other things you need to consider before you setup a company in Dubai.  What is an LLC Company in Dubai? An LLC Company in Dubai also referred to as a Limited Liability Company, is the most popular business structure for the UAE mainland. An LLC can have a minimum of two and a maximum of fifty shareholders. Importantly, these shareholders’ liability is limited to their investment in the company. This means their personal assets are protected if the company faces debts or lawsuits.  Setting up an LLC in Dubai typically involves registering a company name, obtaining a business license, securing visas (if needed), and opening a corporate bank account.  Benefits of Setting up an LLC Company in Dubai Here are some of the key benefits of setting up an LLC company in Dubai:  1. Limited Liability Protection This is a major advantage. As an LLC owner, your personal assets like your house or savings account are shielded from liability if the company faces debts or lawsuits. Your financial risk is limited to your investment in the company.  2. Tax Advantages Dubai offers a tax-friendly environment for LLCs. There’s typically limited corporate income tax levied on LLCs. Profits “pass through” to the individual shareholders who are then taxed on their share of the profits.  3. Ease of Setup Compared to some other business structures, forming an LLC in Dubai is considered relatively straightforward.  4. Management Flexibility LLCs offer flexibility in how you choose to manage the company. You can either have the members (owners) handle it directly or appoint external managers who aren’t shareholders.  5. 100% Foreign Ownership  Dubai allows 100% foreign ownership for LLCs on the mainland, with some exceptions. This can be a significant advantage for foreign investors looking to establish a business in Dubai.  6. Multiple Visas An LLC allows you to sponsor employees and apply for multiple visas, which can be helpful if you plan on hiring foreign staff.  7. Stronger Business Image An LLC structure can present a more professional and established image for your company compared to a sole proprietorship.  Documents Required to Setup LLC in Dubai To open an LLC in Dubai, you’ll need to submit a variety of documents to the Department of Economic Development (DED). This may include:  Photocopies of all shareholders’ passports (including visa pages if applicable)  Application form for registration from the DED  For UAE nationals only, a photocopy of the applicant’s Emirates ID  Trade name reservation form  Memorandum of Association (MOA) & Articles of Association (AOA) if applicable  Bank reference letters  NOC (No Objection Certificate) if required  How to Setup a Limited Liability Company in Dubai, UAE? LLC company formation in Dubai follows a simple, systematic process: 1. Choose Your Business Activity This initial step involves identifying the specific activities your LLC will engage in. The UAE government offers a vast selection of business activities (over 2,000) to choose from. You can find a detailed list on the Department of Economic Development (DED) website.  2. Reserve Your Company Name Once you’ve chosen your business activity, it’s crucial to secure a unique and appropriate name for your LLC. You can submit a name reservation application to the DED for approval.  3. Secure a Business Location While not mandatory, having a physical location can be beneficial depending on your business needs. If you plan to operate from a rented space, secure a tenancy contract and obtain a location map.  4. Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MOA) This is a crucial document that outlines the company’s structure, ownership details, and management rules. You’ll need to draft and notarize the MOA.  5. Apply for a Business License Submit the required documents, including the MOA, tenancy contract, and application forms, to the DED. There might be associated fees for processing the license application.  6. Open a Corporate Bank Account With your licenses in hand, you can proceed to open a corporate bank account for your LLC. This is essential for conducting business transactions.  7. Secure Visas (if required) If you plan to live and work in Dubai or hire employees, you’ll need to sponsor their visas through your LLC.  8. Comply with Tax Requirements Register for tax purposes with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) and ensure compliance with tax regulations in the UAE.  Consider consulting with a business formation specialist in Dubai at Shuraa Business Setup. Our expert can guide you through the process to ensure you meet all the requirements and overcome complexities.  LLC Company Formation Cost in Dubai The LLC license cost in Dubai approximately starts from AED 18,500 to AED 30,000. However, the overall cost depends on several factors, including:  Chosen business activity  Business Location  Government fees  Visa costs  Office rent  Additional approval and permits  This is a general estimate, and the actual LLC company formation cost in Dubai may be higher or lower depending on your specific circumstances. To get a more accurate quote, it’s recommended to consult with a business formation specialist in Dubai at Shuraa who can consider the details of your business activity, location, and any additional requirements.  Start Your LLC Today with Shuraa!  Setting up a business in Dubai is easier than ever with the Limited Liability Company (LLC) structure. This business format is a favourite among many entrepreneurs for its simplicity and protection
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starting a business in Dubai Free Zone

Starting a business in Dubai Free Zone

Dubai draws a lot of attention from prospective UK investors and business owners. Before building a business in the Dubai Free Zone, there are several things to consider. The goal is to figure out which choice is best for you and your company. Overseas investors like to engage in free zones specifically. However, around this, there are many misconceptions about what a Dubai-free zone is and how to operate a business in one. What Is a Dubai Free Zone? Free zone areas, also known as free trade zones in Dubai, are designated commercial zones that are tax-free for the enterprises that operate within. There are no residential houses in these districts that entrepreneurs can use for business. Establishing a business in a free trade zone is ideal for international enterprises and company owners that do most of their work outside of the UAE but want to use the UAE for regional production and supply. Moreover, the government established particular laws and regulations to establish such free zones in Dubai.  As a result, there are several advantages for anybody to invest in setting up a business in the Dubai free zone. Furthermore, non-free zone enterprises required a local sponsor who held 51 percent of the company until recently. Foreign investors are eligible to own 100% of the enterprises in Dubai-free zones. Although there has been a change in these restrictions recently, a considerable number of international investors still opt to operate from Dubai’s free zones due to the attractive tax incentives. Many individuals wonder how they may begin a company in the Dubai free zones. Below are a few procedures to follow, followed by a full explanation of what to consider before free zone company formation in Dubai Examine the legal entity that your business will be. Choose a business brand name Make an application for a business license. Pick a commercial building in one of Dubai’s free zones to start a business. Pre-approvals, registration, and license. Types of UAE Free Zones There are two types of free zones in Dubai. Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC) Free Zone Establishment (FZE) The number of stockholders and their legal status are the only differences between the two. Each Dubai free zone has its own set of restrictions, and business owners must make sure that their company’s position corresponds to the legal criteria of the zone they take interest in. You must first fulfill the legal conditions before the legal authorities that authorize you to operate a company in the Dubai-free zone. Documents Required for Start a Business in Dubai Free Zone The various documents that you must submit to open a business in Dubai free zone are: Passport copy. Visa copy. Emirates ID copy (if applicable) Passport photo. Business plan (only applicable for certain free zones & certain activities) Key Steps to Set Up a Business in a Free Zone Setting up a business in a free zone can offer numerous advantages, including tax benefits, 100% ownership, and streamlined regulations. Here are the key steps to establish your business in a free zone successfully: 1. Determine the Type of Legal Entity Before starting your business, decide on the type of legal entity that best suits your needs. Options may include sole proprietorships, limited liability companies (LLCs), or partnerships. Each type has its own set of regulations, liability implications, and tax obligations. 2. Choose a Trade Name Selecting a unique and relevant trade name is crucial. Ensure that your chosen name complies with the regulations of the free zone authority. Check for name availability and consider including keywords that reflect your business to enhance search visibility. 3. Apply for a Business License Once your trade name is approved, you need to apply for a business license. The application process may vary based on the free zone, so familiarize yourself with the specific requirements. Provide all necessary documentation to facilitate a smooth approval process. 4. Choose an Office Space Free zones often offer various options for office space, from shared offices to dedicated spaces. Select a location that meets your operational needs and budget. Consider factors like accessibility, facilities, and support services. 5. Get Pre-Approvals, Register Your Business, and Obtain Your License Before finalizing your business setup, you may need to obtain pre-approvals from the free zone authority. Once approved, register your business officially and secure your business license. This step is crucial for legally operating within the free zone. Start your business in the free zone with Shuraa UK To conclude, Dubai’s free zone experiment appears to have been a success. They were established to attract foreign direct investment from overseas, and they have succeeded in doing so. This strategy has benefited many international investors and company owners as well as the citizens of Dubai by generating jobs and income. These are special economic zones established to provide tax breaks and customs duty exemptions to foreign investors. These Zones allow foreign-owned enterprises with business permits as well as low business setup cost-free zones. Nevertheless, before making any critical judgments, you must be perceptive in your approach and go through a thorough diligence procedure. Starting a business in a free zone may appear simple, but it requires a significant amount of effort. Hence, Shuraa UK Branch is here to help you select the cheapest free zone in UAE, walk you through the paperwork, and get all approvals and licenses for your business setup. 
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Business Ideas in Dubai

Top 17 Successful Business Ideas In Dubai, UAE – 2024

Dubai is one of the most popular and attractive destinations for entrepreneurs worldwide. Entrepreneurs from around the world are drawn to this dynamic city, and for good reason. With its strategic location, tax incentives, advanced infrastructure, and supportive business environment, Dubai has become an attractive destination for those looking to start their own businesses.  However, the first step of starting a business requires planning and choosing the right business ideas in Dubai. Therefore, we are here to explore the top 17 business sectors that have flourished in Dubai, including tourism, real estate, technology, and more. But first, let’s set the stage and understand why & how Dubai became a popular business destination for entrepreneurs from around the world.  Top business ideas in Dubai in 2024 Learn about 17 profitable business ideas in Dubai and the UAE. It can help you decide whether to start a small business with low investment. 1. Foodstuff Trading Foodstuff supplies in Dubai are imported, exported, as well as manufactured. Business owners looking to explore this venture need to apply for a foodstuff trading license in the UAE and meet the established infrastructural and hygiene requirements. You need to ensure that the food products are properly partitioned, and the containers are frequently sanitized to kill all the harmful germs. Furthermore, the container must have a temperature-tracking device. You can get in touch with the Dubai Municipality to secure your foodstuff license approval once you have all the other setups done. Read More about How to Start a Foodstuff Trading Business in Dubai 2. IT Services – Best business ideas in Dubai Everyone can observe the growth in the Information Technology industry. Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was one of the first businesses to adjust to the “new normal.” When you start a business in Dubai, you can look into a variety of IT-related opportunities. App development, SaaS services, biotechnology, financial technology, and many more are among them. To get the most out of your IT services firm, you may set it up in one of the specialist free zones. For IT entrepreneurs, free zones such as Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) provide profitable business prospects. Read More about How to start an IT company in Dubai 3. Marketing Management Several major marketing management firms are based in the United Arab Emirates, and it’s among the top 10 successful businesses to set up in this region. Its place among the top trading business ideas in dubai is undeniable since firms of all sizes and sectors require a marketing management team to handle their marketing requirements.  You can provide a variety of services, such as branding, paid-ads marketing, organic lead generation, and so on. It’s your duty to demonstrate your knowledge in this sector by providing your clientele with top-notch marketing management solutions.  This will assist you in developing an attractive portfolio in order to grab new markets and establish a reputation for yourself in Dubai’s lucrative industry. 4. Project Management – Most Successful business ideas in Dubai Entrepreneurs who want to start a project management firm in the UAE are on the right track. It’s a lucrative business sector with a plethora of options. To get your project management firm license, you must contact the concerned business licensing authorities. If your granted license does not cover certain of your business operations, you can request external approvals to have them added. Your project management business can offer professional consulting services, project timetable management, event planning, and much more. Read More about Starting a Project Management Services Company in Dubai 5. Electrical Trading Business Be it for household or commercial settings – electrical appliances like air conditioners, wires, and cables, refrigerators, etc., are an essential aspect of any infrastructure. You can start your electrical appliances trading business in the UAE by getting in touch with the Shuraa India Branch or the concerned governing authority.  You must submit all the required documents alongside your visa application and wait for the department’s approval. It’s the best business in Dubai for investors looking for a low barrier to entry and an abundance of client requirements. 6. Electronic Trading Business An electronic trading company in the Emirates can find its home in the mainland region as well as in many of the specialized free zones. You can indulge in the trading of various IT commodities like speakers, displays, computer hardware, and much more. The best part is that you aren’t liable to pay any customs duty on any of your trading activities, and you can trade freely within Dubai and all across the UAE with a mainland establishment. There aren’t any hidden formation costs, and you can easily avoid double taxation too. 7. Cosmetic Trading Trading of cosmetic products in the UAE finds its way in the list of top 10 most successful businesses to start because of the hassle-free company formation procedure and business-friendly laws.  All your cosmetic products should be labeled as per the standards established by ESMA (the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology). Moreover, they should be approved for safe usage on the skin, nails, hair, etc. You can connect with Shuraa India’s business experts to know more about these regulations. 8. Garment Trading Business Thanks to the advantageous market conditions, the garment trading industry is one of the most successful companies to start in Dubai. Depending on your needs, you can start up your textile trading firm on the mainland, in any of the free zones, or offshore. The UAE government gives you the authority to produce, export, and distribute clothes both within the country and to foreign countries. You can contact Shuraa’s business specialists, and we’ll assist you in obtaining a garment trading license at a low cost by handling all legal procedures for you. Read More about How to start a garments Trading Company in Dubai 9. General Trading Firm The general trading industry in the UAE is booming, with plenty of prospects for trading enterprises, thanks to the UAE’s world-class transportation infrastructure and low-cost business
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Dubai investor visa

Investor Visa in UAE

Dubai has become synonymous with innovation, luxury, and a booming business environment that attracts investors from around the world. For those looking to establish a business or invest in property in Dubai, the Dubai Investor Visa is a valuable opportunity. This visa allows individuals to live and work in Dubai while pursuing their business ventures or managing their property investments.  Whether you want to invest in an existing company, setting up your own business, or exploring real estate opportunities with a booming property market (Dubai’s real estate market is expected to grow by over 6% between 2025 and 2027), the Investor Visa paves the way for residency and a bright future.  However, understanding the process and requirements for Dubai investor visa is essential. So, let’s explore the various types of investor visas available and how you can make the most of this opportunity in Dubai.  What is the Dubai Investor Visa?  The Dubai Investor Visa, also known as the Partner Visa, is a residence permit for those who want to invest and live in Dubai. It allows you to not only reside but also work and sponsor your family members. Generally, there are two main ways to qualify for the Investor Visa:  You can invest at least AED 10 million (around USD $2.7 million) in a new company or become a partner in an existing company with an investment of at least AED 10 million.  You can purchase a property with the required minimum value. However, the property must be off-plan (under construction) and completed at the time of purchase.  If you meet either of these requirements, you can obtain a visa that allows you to reside in Dubai for long term, typically renewable every three years. There’s also a new option called the Golden Visa, which offers a 10-year residency visa.  Dubai Golden Visa  The Dubai Golden Visa is a long-term residency program. It grants residence privileges to talented individuals and professionals for up to ten years. This visa offers several benefits, including the ability to live, work, and study in the UAE without needing a local company sponsor.  For investors, there are a few options. One way is to invest a minimum of AED 2 million in an approved UAE investment fund. Another option involves investing in property with a minimum value of AED 2 million, but this property must be off-plan (under construction) and you must retain ownership for at least three years.  Besides the extended residency period, the Dubai Golden Visa offers advantages like sponsoring family members for residency, greater freedom to move jobs within the UAE, and 100% foreign ownership of your business.  Eligibility Criteria for the Dubai Investor Visa  To apply for the Dubai investor visa, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. This generally includes:  Setting up a new company in Dubai with a capital of at least AED 10 million.  Becoming a partner in an existing company with a minimum shareholding worth AED 10 million.  Purchasing a freehold property in Dubai with a minimum value of AED 2 million.  Documents Required for Dubai Investor Visa  The documents you need to obtain a Dubai Investor Visa will depend on whether you choose the business or property investment route. However, here are the general requirements for obtaining an investor visa in Dubai:  A copy of your valid passport  Two recent passport-sized photographs  Medical fitness certificate  Proof of valid health insurance coverage  A copy of your company’s trade license issued by DED  Immigration establishment card (to confirm your company’s registration with the GDRFA)  Proof of share ownership  Bank statement  Property valuation certificate  Property ownership deed  How to get an Investor Visa in Dubai?  Obtaining an investor visa in Dubai involves several steps. Here’s a breakdown of the general process:  1. Define Your Investment Plan  Decide whether you’ll invest in starting a new business or become a partner in an existing one. Alternatively, consider the Golden Visa route if you have a minimum of 2 million for investment in real estate or an approved investment fund.  2. Fulfill Investment Requirements  For business investment, register your company with the Department of Economic Development (DED) and obtain a trade license. Contact experts at Shuraa Business Setup for all your company formation needs.  3. Apply for Entry Permit (if required)  If you’re outside the UAE, apply for an entry permit online through the GDRFA website.  4. Investor Visa Application (In-person or online)  Submit your application and documents for the Investor Visa to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) either in person or online through their designated channels.  5. Medical Examination  Undergo a medical examination at an authorized health center in Dubai. This typically includes tests for communicable diseases like HIV and tuberculosis.  6. Visa Approval and Issuance  Once your application is approved, you will receive an entry permit to enter the UAE. Upon arrival, you will need to complete the residency visa stamping process:  Enter the UAE using the entry permit issued.  Complete a medical test in Dubai.  Apply for an Emirates ID.  Get your residency visa stamped in your passport at the GDRFA.  7. Emirates ID Collection  Collect your Emirates ID once it is ready. This is an essential document for legal residency in the UAE.  8. Renewal  Ensure you renew your investor visa before it expires. The renewal process involves similar steps, including medical tests and paying the renewal fees.  Consult with our experts at Shuraa for personalized guidance throughout the process. They can help with any specific requirements or complexities based on your situation.  Cost for Investor Visa in Dubai  An Investor visa cost in Dubai for a UK Entrepreneur is AED 4000*, with a renewal fee of AED 1750*. A 2-year Investor visa cost in Dubai is AED 12,000* depending on several factors, including:  Type of investor visa (Golden Visa generally has higher costs)  Investment approach  Application method (Online or in-person)  Here are the estimated costs:  Visa Fees: AED 4,000 approx., the Golden Visa fees may differ  Medical Test: Around AED 350 to
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100% foreign ownership in Dubai

100% foreign ownership in Dubai

The 100% foreign ownership law for onshore companies has attracted a lot of eyeballs from all around the world. Business owners and budding investors can now enjoy complete business ownership in the mainland region as well. Therefore, you’re now freed from the hassle of finding a reliable local sponsor (UAE national) who’ll have legal participation in your company alongside 51% shareholding as well. The latest amendment in the Companies Law has empowered expats to enjoy 100% foreign ownership in Dubai mainland, much like the legal structure in free zones. All you need to do is check whether your business activities meet the required criteria to savor 100% ownership in the UAE and apply for the same by taking help from the business consultants at Shuraa UK. How to Open an Onshore Company with 100% Foreign Ownership? Setting up your venture in the mainland region with 100% ownership in the UAE is a big plus for investors looking to find a home for their business in the country. All you need to do is follow the steps mentioned below to launch your onshore company: 1. List your Business Activities It’s imperative for business owners to list down all the activities that they wish to carry out in the UAE once they establish their onshore company. The Department of Economic Development (DED) maintains an exhaustive list of around 2,000 permissible business activities. You can choose the ones that match your business model, and the same would reflect in your approved trading license. 2. Finalise the Company’s Legal Structure 100% foreign ownership in Dubai mainland has opened a new world of opportunities for onshore company formation. You can now form an LLC (limited liability company) without a local sponsor. This implies you no longer need a UAE national who’ll have 51% shareholding of your company. All you need is assistance from a local service agent (LSA) who’ll help you with the paperwork, legal procedures, and more to ensure you don’t face any trouble opening your dream venture in Dubai mainland. The best part is that the LSA doesn’t have any legal shareholding in your company, so you can enjoy 100% foreign ownership of your enterprise. 3. Trade Name Reservation The next step to launch your onshore company with 100% foreign ownership is to reserve a legal trading name for your business. The name you choose should be indicative of your business activities and shouldn’t be copied from an established brand in the marketplace. The UAE government requires you to submit a list of 3-4 preferred trading names, and you get the approval/rejection status of each name in quick time. Ensure that the names you select are unique, catchy, and devoid of any derogatory terms or words that hurt the sentiments of any religion or community. 4. Secure an Office Space An office space that gels well with your venture’s personality is a must-have. Therefore, explore as much as you can before finalising the office space for your onshore enterprise. It’s recommended to rent office space rather than investing in real estate for several reasons. It’s beneficial as you don’t need to invest hefty sums of money upfront and also facilitates hassle-free relocation. New-age investors and entrepreneurs can also secure virtual office space for their venture in the mainland region. You can launch your company virtually without investing in physical office space by getting in touch with our business experts. You need to sign a sustainability agreement with us, and we’ll take care of the rest. 5. Apply for a Business License 100% foreign ownership in Dubai opens the gate for several lucrative onshore business opportunities without the legal involvement of a mandatory local sponsor. Therefore, you’re your own master, and the keys to the kingdom of your corporate success rest in your hands. Applying for a business license in the UAE involves a lot of paperwork and approvals. This is done to ensure that unauthorised agencies don’t set up their firms in the Emirates and fake applications are also filtered through rigorous documentation. You must have the initial approval certificate, payment receipt of trade name reservation, identity proof documents, and more to apply for a business license. 6. Procure a Visa and Open a Corporate Bank Account The last steps involve the procurement of visas for yourself and your family. You can obtain a visa by sharing your investment plan, or by investing in more office space. Moreover, business owners can also secure visas for their domestic staff. Having a corporate bank account in a reliable bank is also vital during your stay in the UAE. Always choose a bank that offers long-term business benefits alongside robust banking facilities. You can connect with the legal advisors at Shuraa UK in case you face any issues in opening a bank account for your company. Benefits of Forming an Onshore Company in the UAE? 100% company ownership in the UAE is now legalised for onshore companies as per the UAE Federal Law No. 19 of 2018 on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Therefore, you now have complete control over the day-to-day business activities, finances, and everything related to your dream venture. Remember that you may still need an LSA for company establishment. However, they won’t intervene in any of your business activities. Mainland or onshore company formation is also beneficial because you’re presented with the opportunity to capture a larger audience segment. Business owners can trade freely within Dubai, the UAE and international trading is also seamless for mainland companies. Companies in the mainland region enjoy some exclusive privileges. Onshore companies also get a preference for government projects and other such legal tenders. Launch your Onshore Company in the UAE Investors shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to establish their companies in the mainland region and enjoy 100% company ownership in the UAE. The process to set up your onshore company has undergone changes due to the amendments in the Companies Law. You now need a local service agent instead of a local sponsor to
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