Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Your Company in Dubai
1. Define Your Business Activity
The first step is identifying the type of business activity you plan to engage in. Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED) categorizes activities into:
- Commercial (trading)
- Professional (service-based)
- Industrial (manufacturing and production)
Buqadoo’s Assistance:
Our experts help you choose the right category and ensure your activity aligns with legal requirements.
2. Choose Your Business Jurisdiction
Dubai offers three main jurisdictions for setting up a business:
- Mainland: Ideal for businesses targeting the UAE market.
- Free Zone: Offers 100% foreign ownership and tax benefits.
- Offshore: Suitable for international operations without physical offices in Dubai.
Buqadoo’s Assistance:
We analyze your business needs and recommend the best jurisdiction for maximum benefits.
3. Select a Legal Structure
Choose the type of company you want to establish, such as:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Sole Proprietorship
- Branch of a Foreign Company
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
Buqadoo’s Assistance:
We guide you in selecting a structure that suits your business model and ensures legal compliance.
4. Reserve a Trade Name
Select a unique and relevant trade name for your company. Ensure it complies with DED’s naming guidelines, such as:
- Avoiding offensive or religious terms.
- Not matching existing company names.
- Including appropriate legal structure suffixes like “LLC.”
Buqadoo’s Assistance:
We handle the trade name reservation process, ensuring quick approval.
5. Obtain Initial Approvals
You’ll need initial approvals from the relevant authorities before proceeding further. These may include:
- DED for Mainland companies.
- Free Zone authorities for Free Zone businesses.
- Additional approvals for regulated sectors (e.g., healthcare, education).
Buqadoo’s Assistance:
We liaise with the authorities to secure all necessary approvals on your behalf.

6. Draft a Memorandum of Association (MOA)
For companies like LLCs, drafting an MOA is mandatory. This document outlines the company’s structure, ownership, and operational rules.
Buqadoo’s Assistance:
We prepare and notarize your MOA, ensuring it complies with UAE regulations.
7. Lease Office Space
Your company must have a physical address registered with the authorities. This can be a standard office, virtual office, or warehouse, depending on your business type.
Buqadoo’s Assistance:
We help you find affordable office solutions and register your tenancy contract through the Ejari system.
8. Apply for a Business License
The business license is essential for operating legally. The type of license depends on your business activity:
- Commercial License
- Professional License
- Industrial License
Buqadoo’s Assistance:
We manage the entire licensing process, ensuring you meet all requirements.
9. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Opening a bank account is crucial for managing your business transactions. Requirements include valid trade licenses, passports, and MOA copies.
Buqadoo’s Assistance:
We assist in selecting the right bank and preparing the necessary documents.
10. Finalize Visa Applications
Once your company is registered, you’ll need visas for the owners, employees, and possibly family members.
Buqadoo’s Assistance:
We handle all visa-related processes, including medical tests, Emirates ID applications, and stamping.
Why Choose Buqadoo for Company Registration?
- Experienced Professionals: Decades of experience in company formation in Dubai.
- Tailored Solutions: Customized services based on your business goals.
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or surprises.
- End-to-End Support: From consultation to post-registration services.
Contact Buqadoo for Business Setup
Let us make your business dreams a reality!
- Address: Emirates Islamic Bank Building M04, Near Al Tiwar Center, Al Qusais 1, Dubai, UAE
- Email: info@buqadoo.ae / buqadoo@gmail.com
- Phone: +971 50 489 4381 / +971 56 138 2829
Start your journey today with Buqadoo! Let us handle the complexities so you can focus on your business growth.