Starting with a Clear Plan

If you want to register a company in Dubai, understanding the process before you begin is essential. While Dubai remains one of the most business-friendly environments in the world, navigating the legal steps, documentation, and regulatory choices requires precision and planning. Whether you're setting up a consultancy, trading firm, or e-commerce startup, the structure you choose will affect licensing, taxation, and your operational scope.

Step 1: Define Your Business Activity

The first requirement in Dubai business setup is identifying your business activity. Dubai allows hundreds of licensed activities, but each one falls under specific regulations. Your selected activity will influence the required documents, fees, and type of business license Dubai you’ll apply for.

Step 2: Choose a Legal Structure

Once your activity is confirmed, the next step is selecting the legal structure of your business. Common types include sole proprietorship, civil company, limited liability company (LLC), and branch office. This decision will define ownership rights, profit distribution, and your eligibility for foreign ownership under UAE law.

Step 3: Reserve a Trade Name

Your trade name must reflect the nature of your business, avoid restricted terms, and comply with local naming rules. This step—called trade name registration—must be completed with the Department of Economic Development (DED license Dubai) or the relevant Free Zone authority. Once approved, the name is legally reserved for your company.

Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval

With a trade name reserved, you’ll apply for initial approval from the licensing authority. This confirms that the government has no objection to you launching your business, subject to final compliance.

Step 5: Prepare Required Documents

At this stage, you will submit copies of your passport, visa, Emirates ID (if applicable), lease agreement for office space, and business plan depending on your activity. The requirements vary slightly between mainland and Free Zone applications but must be complete and accurate.

Step 6: Final License Issuance

Once all documentation is verified and approvals secured, you will receive your official company registration Dubai license. This document legally allows you to operate under your registered activity and trade name in the jurisdiction of your choice.

Step 7: Visa and Bank Setup

After licensing, you can proceed with visa applications and corporate bank account setup. The number of visas you can apply for depends on your office size and license type. Bank account approvals vary based on the nature of your business and documentation provided.

Choosing to start business in Dubai is a strategic move, but the process must be completed correctly to avoid delays or rejections. At 28Group, we help entrepreneurs and investors handle every stage of company formation UAE—from the trade name to visa issuance. Our experts ensure you're compliant, efficient, and ready to operate with confidence in 2025.