HOW TO REGISTER A COMPANY IN DUBAI FROM INDIA: STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE FOR 2025

How to Register a Company in Dubai from India: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

How to Register a Company in Dubai from India: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

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Dubai has become a global business hub, attracting entrepreneurs from all over the world, including India. With its location, tax benefits and infrastructure, Dubai offers immense opportunities for business growth. If you are an Indian entrepreneur looking to expand your business, this guide will walk you through the process of registering a company in Dubai.



Why Indian Entrepreneurs Choose Dubai


Dubai’s business friendly environment offers many advantages:


    • 100% Foreign Ownership: Recent laws allow full foreign ownership in many sectors, no need for a local sponsor.





    • Tax Benefits: Zero personal and corporate taxes in free zones, minimal VAT implications.





    • Strategic Location: Dubai is a gateway between East and West, facilitates international trade.





    • Robust Infrastructure: World class facilities and connectivity for all types of business.



Types of Business Jurisdictions in Dubai


Understanding the different jurisdictions is important:

Mainland


    • Regulated by: Department of Economic Development (DED)





    • Ownership: Up to 100% foreign ownership in many sectors





    • Scope: Can operate anywhere in the UAE





    • Ideal for: Businesses targeting the local UAE market



Free Zone


    • Regulated by: Respective Free Zone Authorities





    • Ownership: 100% foreign ownership





    • Scope: Primarily for international business; limited direct trade within the UAE





    • Ideal for: Export oriented businesses, IT companies, consultancies



Offshore


    • Regulated by: Offshore Authorities like JAFZA, RAK ICC





    • Ownership: 100% foreign ownership





    • Scope: Cannot conduct business within the UAE; ideal for holding companies





    • Ideal for: Asset protection, international trading



Step by Step Process to Register a Company in Dubai from India


Step 1: Define Your Business Activity

Choose from over 2,000 business activities approved by DED or respective Free Zone Authorities. Your chosen activity will determine the type of license required.

Step 2: Select the Jurisdiction

Choose between Mainland, Free Zone or Offshore based on your business model, target market and ownership preferences.

Step 3: Choose the Legal Structure

Options are:


    • Limited Liability Company (LLC)





    • Sole Proprietorship





    • Branch Office





    • Free Zone Company





    • Offshore CompanyEach has its own requirements and benefits.



Step 4: Reserve a Trade Name

Ensure your company name:


    • Is unique and not already registered





    • Reflects the nature of your business





    • Complies with naming conventions (e.g., no offensive terms)



Step 5: Get Initial Approval

Submit required documents to DED or Free Zone Authority for initial approval of your business setup.

Step 6: Prepare Legal Documents

Draft and notarize necessary documents:


    • Memorandum of Association (MOA)





    • Articles of Association (AOA)





    • Shareholder Agreements



Step 7: Get Office Space

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may need to lease physical office space or opt for virtual offices or flexi-desks.

Step 8: Apply for Business License

Based on your business activity, apply for the relevant license:


    • Commercial License





    • Professional License





    • Industrial License



Step 9: Open a Corporate Bank Account

Provide required documents to open a business bank account in the UAE.

Step 10: Process Visas

Apply for:


    • Investor Visa





    • Employee Visas



This step is mandatory for you and your staff to legally reside and work in the UAE.

Documents Required for Indian Entrepreneurs




    • copyright Copies of shareholders and directors





    • copyright-sized Photographs





    • Proof of Address (e.g., utility bills)





    • Business Plan





    • No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable





    • Bank Reference Letter



Estimated Costs for Company Registration


Service Estimated Cost (AED)

Trade Name Reservation 620

Initial Approval 1,000

License Fee 10,000 – 15,000

Office Space (Annual Rent) 15,000 – 20,000

Visa Processing (per visa) 3,000 – 5,000

Documentation & Legal Fees 2,000 – 5,000

Note: Costs vary based on business activity, jurisdiction and other factors.

Legal Framework and Compliance


Dubai’s business laws are governed by:


    • Federal Law No. 2 of 2015 on Commercial Companies





    • UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 16 of 2020 allowing 100% foreign ownership in certain sectors* Free Zone Regulations specific to each zone



Compliance with these laws is key to smooth operations and avoiding legal issues.

How Flyingcolour Business Setup Can Help You


At Flyingcolour Business Setup, we assist Indian entrepreneurs with:


    • Business Consultation: Customized advice based on your business needs





    • Documentation: Preparation and notarization of legal documents





    • License Processing: Simplifying the application process





    • Office Solutions: Finding office spaces





    • Bank Account Setup: Opening corporate bank accounts





    • Visa Services: Managing visa applications for you and your staff



We take care of the hassle so you can focus on your business.

FAQs


Q1: Can I own 100% of my company in Dubai as an Indian?

Yes, recent changes allow 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, especially in Free Zones.

Q2: Do I need to be physically present in Dubai to register my company?

While some steps can be done remotely, some procedures may require your presence or that of a legal representative.

Q3: How long does it take to register?

2 to 4 weeks, depending on the business activity and jurisdiction.

Q4: Can I operate my business from India after registration?

Yes, especially if your business is in a Free Zone and serves international clients. But compliance and visa requirements are a must.

Q5: What are the ongoing compliance requirements?

Annual license renewal, financial audits (depending on the jurisdiction) and visa renewals are some of the ongoing requirements.

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