Opening a company in UAE
UAE is a perfect jurisdiction to conduct international business activity. There are no restrictions and no sanctions. That is the main reason why this country was chosen as the relocation place for many business giants, as well as medium-size companies and small enterprises.
In the modern legal field, UAE is the only jurisdiction that allows international activities to be conducted without any taxes and risks of reshoring. The country provides guarantees and security for businessmen, traders, investors and numerous service providers, participating in international tenders.
Company “Matrix”, which is a part of our group of companies, specializes in company formation. It helps businesses and entrepreneurs to establish their business and operate in UAE. When it comes to large companies, we help to build a whole billing center in UAE, establish logistics and trade centers.
Advantages of companies registered in UAE:
- Absolute financial stability of UAE banks
- No tax or sanction consequences
- Confidentiality of business and income
- Alternative tools to facilitate capital flows
Our company will not only assist you with the company formation, but also will benefit in the future through:
- Business networking
- International tax planning
- Business support
- International business optimization
We provide a wide spectrum of outsourcing services, needed on the company formation stage. We offer complex solutions that include:
- Legal support
- Consulting service
- Accounting support
- Administrative support
Top 5 Locations for Company Formation
Dubai Mainland & Free Zones
Abu Dhabi Mainland & Free Zones
Sharjah Mainland & Free Zones
Ajman Mainland & Free Zones
Ras Al Khaimah Mainland & Free Zones
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FREE ZONE AND MAINLAND
There are two main types of companies: Mainland and Free Zone. The government provides each with different business operation opportunities and defines their geographic scope of activity. Mainland and Free Zone companies are located in different areas of the city. There are more than 50 Free Zones across the UAE
| Criteria | Freezone | Mainland |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | 100% ownership for non-residents | A local parent is required, in some cases |
| Business activity restrictions | No restrictions for activities outside of the UAE. You can conduct any activity in the Freezone. Note that selling goods on the market can be done only via distributors | No restrictions for activities outside of the UAE. Activities in the UAE only in a professional company (SE or CC) signed a contract with a local agent who is not among shareholders |
| Regulation & Administration | Freezone acts like a main entity for any interactions with the government institutions (GDFRA, Ministry of Human Resources, Municipalities, etc.) | The main regulator, in this scenario, is the Economic Department in the emirate where the company registered. Direct interactions with municipalities and gov. entities |
| Capital Requirement | Differs from one emirate to another | Varies based on the legal structure of the company |
| Office Space | No obligation to have a physical office space | A physical office space is required of not less than 200 square feet |
| Visa restrictions | Unlimited number of visas | Strict rules and regulations when it comes to visas |
| Company Formation Timeframe | 3-5 working days | 5-10 working days |
Unique opportunities of Mainland companies
Local companies can expect maximum support from the government. Specific tool that helps develop business in UAE and abroad. Legal and organizational form which is determined by legislation and has no counterpart in other countries
Organization’s legal form
Subdivided into professional, commercial and production
Business licensing
In order to launch a business in the UAE, a Trade License is required which is the main constitutive document. Trade License is valid for a year and can be extended
Local agent
It is important to conclude an agreement with a local agent who is not one of the company's shareholders. He formally represents interests in government agencies. The presence of an agent increases the level of trust on the part of banks and business partners. Often an agreement is concluded with a local agent (meaning a citizen of the country) and a power of attorney for the implementation of activities is valid on his behalf. Now there are many types of activities where a local agent is not needed
Requirement of the office
As per the law, a company should have an office, a commercial space with Estidama/Ejari
Company Management
A managing director is appointed. Several directors may act jointly, with their rights and responsibilities outlined in the memorandum
Benefits of registering a company in Freezone
A budget-friendly tool for setting up international businesses, offering access to investor-friendly laws, a strong banking system, and a modern transport and logistics network
Global Business
Reducing taxes by removing company taxes when conducting business abroad
Production planning
Benefits of duty-free import of raw materials, storage in the Free Zone and export of finished products outside UAE
Service delivery
Ability to offer a wide range of services to worldwide counterparties, including in the territory of the Free Zone, where the company is registered
Asset registration
The company's balance sheet can show real estate and assets, including overseas ones.
Trading operations
Ability to carry out local market sales via distributors, international trade, export, re-export, and goods selling
Frequently asked questions
