Documents you need to set up a company in Dubai

· 1 min read · By the Biznexa team

Advisers reviewing company formation documents in a meeting

Getting your paperwork right is the fastest way to a trade licence. Here's what most Dubai company setups ask for. Exact requirements vary by jurisdiction and activity, and we send you a tailored checklist before you start.

For each individual shareholder

  • A clear passport copy (valid for at least six months)
  • A passport-size photo with a white background
  • Your UAE visa or entry stamp, if you're already in the UAE
  • Emirates ID copy, if you're a UAE resident
  • Proof of address may be requested by some authorities and banks

About the company

  • Three to five proposed trade names, in order of preference
  • The business activities you want on your licence
  • Shareholding split between partners
  • The manager and any other authorised signatories

If a shareholder is a company

  • Certificate of incorporation
  • Memorandum and articles of association
  • A board resolution approving the UAE company and naming its representative
  • Documents issued outside the UAE usually need to be notarised and legalised (attested) before UAE authorities accept them

Good to know

  • If you're employed in the UAE, some authorities ask for a no-objection letter from your current sponsor.
  • Regulated activities — for example financial, medical or education services — need extra approvals from the relevant regulator.
  • After your licence is issued, banks will ask for more documents when you open your corporate account; see our guide on opening a UAE corporate bank account.

Not sure what applies to you? Talk to an adviser — we'll confirm the exact list for your setup.

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