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All you need to know about
setting up a company in the emirates

SETTING UP IN THE EMIRATES – COMPANY FORMATION AND MANAGEMENT

The time it takes to open a business in Dubai can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of business you want to set up, the legal and administrative requirements in force, and how quickly you can provide the necessary documents. In general, the process can take from a week to several months. Companies requiring special licenses or regulatory approvals may take longer to register. We work efficiently to guide you through every step of the process and minimize the time it takes to open your business in Dubai.

Opening a business can be done 100% remotely. However, if you wish to obtain a residence visa, you will need to go to the UAE for a blood test and fingerprinting, in accordance with UAE regulations. Our professional team will coordinate all the necessary formalities on your behalf, reducing your time and effort on site to an absolute minimum.

No, you don’t have to move to the United Arab Emirates to keep your business. UAE laws allow foreign nationals to own and manage a business without being resident in the country. However, to maintain a valid residence visa, it is generally required to visit the country at least once every six months.

A residence visa for the United Arab Emirates offers advantages even if you don’t plan to live in the country. This facilitates business travel, access to local financial services, strengthens your professional credibility and can open up real estate investment opportunities. Although you don’t plan to reside in the Emirates, holding a residency visa can be advantageous for the development and growth of your business in the region.

To become a tax resident in the United Arab Emirates, you generally need to spend a minimum of 183 days per year in the country. You’ll also need a valid residence visa and other documents such as proof of residency, bank statements and employment contracts to confirm your tax status.

Yes, you can set up a business in another emirate of the United Arab Emirates and live in Dubai. The United Arab Emirates has a policy of free movement between emirates, which means you can live in one emirate and own a business in another. However, make sure you meet the residency requirements in the emirate where you live, as well as the obligations associated with running your business in the emirate where it is registered.

Yes, you are required to keep full and accurate accounts for your business in the United Arab Emirates in accordance with current regulations. This includes keeping financial records, preparing tax returns and submitting annual reports.

Opening a bank account in the United Arab Emirates is not guaranteed and depends on the policies and compliance criteria of the chosen bank, as well as the documents provided at the time of application.

Obtaining a residence visa for the United Arab Emirates is not guaranteed and depends on various factors, including compliance with requirements and the documentation provided at the time of application.

Yes, it is possible to open a business in the United Arab Emirates yourself. However, it’s important to note that the process can be complex, requiring a thorough knowledge of local laws and regulations. What’s more, administrative requirements and formalities can vary depending on the type of business you want to set up and the emirate you plan to settle in. Working with experienced professionals, such as business lawyers or business consultants, can help you navigate the process more effectively and avoid potential obstacles. These experts can provide valuable advice and guidance every step of the way, which can be particularly useful if you are unfamiliar with the legal and administrative system in the United Arab Emirates.

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