Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can Emirates First help my business?

The team at Emirates First takes care of everything to ensure your business gets off the ground smoothly and successfully. Our expert team handles the following:

• Creating a business structure that suits you
• Supporting legal procedures end-to-end
• Initiating and renewing contracts
• Checking the validity of all licenses
• Setting up a virtual office
• Networking support

For more information or to get in touch, please contact us.

2. What does it take to set up a business in Dubai?

To set up a business in Dubai you need to have a business license. There are three types of business licenses you can apply for - a mainland business license, a free zone business license, and an offshore business license.

Here’s what you need to acquire any of these licenses:

1. Approval from government authorities to initiate business setup
2. Verification of your legal and identity documents
3. Verification of your space business setup by the legal and commercial authorities

3. What documents do I need to start a company in Dubai?

To set up a company in Dubai, you need the following documents:

• Business license application form
• Business plan and identity details of your business
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
• Reference letters from banks
• Residence visa
• No Objection Certificate (NOC)

Please note, there may be slight variations on the documents you need depending on your Emirate.

4. Do I need to have a residence visa to start a business in the UAE?

Yes, unless you are starting an offshore business, a residence visa is required to start a business.

5. Why should I Invest in Dubai?

Dubai is a premiere business hub for budding entrepreneurs from all around the world. Benefits of investing in Dubai include tax benefits, relaxed terms on imports and exports, and a business-friendly infrastructure. Additionally, with great weather all-year-round and a diverse, exciting community, Dubai features one of the world’s most desired lifestyles.

6. Do I need a trade license in Dubai?

A trade license is mandatory for all individuals and companies that are involved in trading, commercial, import, export, and re-export activities in Dubai.

7. Which trade license do I need and can you help me secure one?

There are four types of trade licenses available: professional, commercial, industrial and tourism. The one you need is dependent on the location and nature of your business.

Our certified consultants at Emirates First are experts at obtaining trade licenses and will work with you to help you choose the one that’s best for your business.

8. What other services does Emirates First offer?

Emirates First offers many other great services including:

• Visa services including applications, documentation, and issuance support. Learn more
• Labour and immigration services, including assistance with administrative tasks. Learn more
• Attestation services for your certificates and documents. Learn more
• Translation services for English, Arabic, Urdu, Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil & Pashto. Learn more
• PRO services which save you lots of time by taking care of daily formalities that come with starting a business. Learn more

For more information, please follow this link.

9. Can I set up my company in a free zone?

Yes. Setting up a free zone company in the UAE can be very advantageous for foreign investors because it creates a favourable environment for them to operate in. Operating in a free zone includes benefits such as 100% foreign ownership with no requirements for a local sponsor, zero corporate taxes, and minimal import and export taxes.

There are over 40 free zones in the UAE that you can set up your business in and our experienced team will help you choose the one that’s most beneficial to you.

10. Does Emirates First have an app?

Yes. Our unique app allows you to access all of our services from the comfort of your phone. The Emirates First app is user friendly, with both English and Arabic services; efficient, with equally great usability across iPhones and Android products; and extremely easy-to-use.

You can download our app from the App Store or Google Play.