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UAE Business Set Up
UAE business setup offers three main options: free zone, mainland, and offshore. Free zones are best for startups and international businesses with benefits like 100% ownership and lower costs. Mainland companies allow you to operate anywhere in the UAE and sell directly to customers, while offshore setups are mainly for holding or international operations without local presence.
The setup process is straightforward choose your business activity, register the name, get approvals, and obtain a license. Costs usually range from AED 10,000 to AED 50,000+, depending on the type and requirements.
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Some of the Most Asked Question
- Define your business activity.
- Select a jurisdiction (Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore).
- Secure a trade name.
- Apply for a business license.
- Get permissions from the appropriate authorities for business setup in Dubai.
- Rent the office area and complete the process of documentation.
- Open a corporate bank account to record business transactions.
Yes, it is possible to operate a small business while working as a worker with another employer in Dubai, UAE, but this is subject to some terms and limitations. As per the UAE labor law, a worker is restricted from involving in any activity that is in competition with their employer throughout the term of their employment agreement.
In addition, permission from the current employer is essential prior to initiate a new business. If the employer approved, this is crucial to make sure that the business activities don’t interfere with the worker’s performance or duties at the current employer.
- Commercial License: Issued for trading and general business activities.
- Professional License: Issued to businesses that offer expert service.
- Industrial License: Issued for manufacturing and production activities.
- Tourism License: Issued for travel, hospitality, and tourism-related businesses.