The United Arab Emirates happens to be one of the biggest and most diversified economies in the world. It plays a key role in global commerce and trade. Many entrepreneurs and investors want to build their offices and set up offices in Dubai. Other reasons why so many people are interested in starting up a business are the high economic returns and tax exemptions.

Dubai is the commercial capital of the UAE. Furthermore, the government of this emirate is investor-friendly as well. As a result, this attitude both supports and motivates businessmen from all over the world to establish themselves in Dubai. However, there are a few things you need to know such as knowledge of business laws and rules like force majeure and others. It will take some time and adjustment for setting up a business in Dubai.
They will make your journey easier and let you have a sound footing as you venture into the business industry in Dubai. Read on below to know about the important considerations:
The Business Set up Costs
Apart from the initial capital investment of the business, setting up a business in Dubai requires some additional costs such as government fees and operational costs. Some of the major business setup costs are business license, government certifications, trade name registration, visa, and immigration, etc.
Legalities and Paperwork
The UAE government is both thorough and specific in terms of legalities, documentation, and other paperwork involved. In case of any delay from the company’s end regarding the paperwork and legalities, it could result in a heavy fine imposed on the company.
So, it is better that you start learning fast and know about the required legal procedures and documentation.
Knowing How Mainland, Freezone, and Offshore Properties Differ from each other
There are three main jurisdictions of Business setups in Dubai.
- Mainland
- Freezone
- Offshore
These jurisdictions have been made keeping in mind the different requirements of different businesses. Also, it takes into account the company’s ownership status, the commercial activity of the company, feasibility, and taxation.
Incorporation Process & Licensing Stages
When you are setting up your business, the main two things that are done the most are market research and the practicality of the business you want to set up here. It would take a lot of time and effort to learn the ropes. You would also have to learn about the currency, trends, and other relevant matters.
Due to this, quite often, the tasks that get neglected or done in haste are incorporation and licensing. Incorporating a trade license is an important process. Sometimes, new companies end up acquiring trade licenses that are not suitable and fail to fulfill their needs. Or, they allow the companies only certain activities. It is important not to get carried away and focus on the incorporation process and take professional help.
Realizing the Important of Time
Time is of the essence. You should think of everything that can go wrong. Avoid wasting time once the setup process has been started. You should be aware of the significance of time. If you delay the important matters and extend them, the business setup costs are bound to increase. Additionally, the relevant business documents have a renewal date. So the entire process has to be done on time as everything is linked to one another and delaying one thing could upset another.
Last but not least, you should know that there are some cultural borders that you need to recognize and accept when setting up your business in Dubai. You should take assistance from a reliable law firm to learn about business and the UAE labour law so you are more attuned to what is acceptable here.
