Registering a business in Dubai Free Zones typically involves the following steps. Please note that regulations and procedures may have changed, so it’s essential to consult with official sources or a business consultant to get the most up-to-date information:

Research and Choose a Free Zone: Dubai has several Free Zones, each catering to specific industries and activities. Research the Free Zones that align with your business needs and select the one that best suits your requirements.

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Table of Contents

Determine Business Activity and Legal Structure:

Define the nature of your business activity and choose an appropriate legal structure, such as a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) for single shareholders or a Free Zone Company (FZCO) for multiple shareholders.

Choose a Company Name:

Select a unique name for your company. Ensure that the chosen name complies with the Free Zone’s naming guidelines.

Submit Application and Documentation: Prepare the required documents, which may include:
Passport copies of shareholders and directors
Proof of address for shareholders and directors
Business plan
No-objection letter (if applicable)
Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Specimen signature
Any additional documents specific to the Free Zone

Obtain Initial Approval:

Submit the application and necessary documents to the relevant Free Zone authority. Once the documents are reviewed and approved, you will receive an initial approval.

Legalize Documents:

Depending on your home country, you may need to have certain documents legalized by the UAE embassy or consulate in your country.

Payment of Fees:

Pay the required fees, which include registration fees, license fees, and any other applicable charges.

Sign Lease Agreement:

Obtain an office or warehouse space in the chosen Free Zone. Some Free Zones offer flexi-desk options for startups, while others may require a physical office presence.

Final Submission:

After obtaining the lease agreement and fulfilling all requirements, submit the final documents to the Free Zone authority.

License Issuance:

Once all documents are verified and fees are paid, the Free Zone authority will issue your business license.

Visa Processing:

Apply for employee visas and/or investor visas (if required).

It’s important to note that the specific requirements and procedures may vary between different Free Zones in Dubai. It is advisable to contact the Free Zone authority directly or consult with a business setup service provider to get precise and up-to-date information tailored to your business needs. Additionally, the UAE government regularly updates its regulations to improve the ease of doing business, so staying informed about the latest developments is crucial.