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Contact Info
Dubai Level 8, Clover Bay Tower, Business Bay, Dubai, UAE
Thailand 1/25-26 Moo.3 , Chaipornvithee Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150
USA One World Trade Center, 85th Floor New York, NY 10007
London 63A Marlborough Hill, Harrow, London, HA1 1TX
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Home > Blog > Business > Things to Know Before...

Things to Know Before Opening a Company in the United Arab Emirates

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Kshetry Legal
Date Released
5 September, 2025
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At Kshetry & Co Legal Advisors, our multinational team is experienced in setting up successful ventures across the UAE for entrepreneurs and corporations. Having assisted clients from diverse industries, we understand the excitement and the challenges that come with establishing a business in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

The UAE is a land of opportunity: a global hub for trade, investment, and innovation. But before you dive into company formation, here are the essential things you must know.

Choosing the Right Jurisdiction

The UAE offers three main options, each with its own advantages:

  • Mainland – Best for operating across the UAE and engaging with government contracts.

  • Free Zone – Popular for 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions, especially for international trade.

  • Offshore – Suitable for holding companies, wealth management, and asset protection.

Selecting the right structure depends on your long-term business vision.

Documents You’ll Need

Running a company in the UAE requires accurate documentation and regulatory approvals. Commonly required documents include:

  • Passport copies of shareholders and directors

  • Visa and Emirates ID (if applicable)

  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsor (if employed in the UAE)

  • Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)

  • Trade License application

  • Office lease agreement (Ejari)

  • Bank reference letter & proof of address

Industry-specific approvals may also apply, depending on your business activity.

The Importance of Licensing & Compliance

Without the correct license, a company cannot operate legally in the UAE. The type of license commercial, professional, or industrial depends on your business activity. Our role as advisors is to simplify this process, ensuring that you meet every compliance requirement without delays.

Setting Up Banking Facilities

Corporate bank accounts are mandatory for operations in the UAE. Banks apply strict due diligence, and many new investors find the process overwhelming. With the right legal team, however, account opening becomes smooth and hassle-free.

Why Guidance Matters

Many investors underestimate the legal complexities of company formation. A trusted legal partner ensures that your investment is protected from the very beginning. With our extensive experience in UAE company law, Kshetry & Co Legal Advisors has helped clients avoid costly mistakes while building strong, compliant businesses.

The UAE is not just a destination—it’s a gateway to global success. With the right guidance, your business can thrive here. At Kshetry & Co Legal Advisors, we bring international expertise and local knowledge to make your company formation journey seamless.

👉 Ready to set up your UAE business? Our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.

Secure Your Next Move.