Opening a commercial register in Dubai is an essential step for anyone wishing to enter the business world in one of the most vibrant and prosperous commercial cities in the world. Thanks to its strategic location between the East and the West, Dubai provides an ideal business environment characterized by economic stability, innovation, and cultural diversity. The city offers a range of investment opportunities that attract entrepreneurs and investors from all over the world, making it an attractive destination for establishing businesses.
The process of opening a commercial register in Dubai is a crucial step in ensuring legal and reliable business activities. This process requires adherence to a set of legal and administrative procedures that ensure that businesses are organized in a manner that complies with local laws. From choosing the type of company, determining the business activity, collecting the required documents and submitting them to the competent authorities, to completing the registration requirements and obtaining the necessary licenses, these steps are essential to ensuring the establishment of a successful and stable company.
Paying attention to the details of this process is of utmost importance, as each step can directly impact the success of the business. Dubai provides an integrated support environment for investors, including assistance in preparing documents and guiding them through every step of the establishment process. The city also offers a range of free zones that provide additional benefits such as tax exemptions and full foreign ownership, making it easier for investors to achieve their business goals effectively.
In this article, we will review the basic steps to open a commercial register in Dubai, focusing on the necessary procedures and required documents, to provide a practical guide to help you start your business journey successfully in this dynamic market.

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ToggleRequirements for opening a commercial register in Dubai
Opening a commercial register in Dubai requires meeting a set of basic requirements and procedures to ensure your compliance with local laws and properly establishing your business. Here are the main requirements for opening a commercial register in Dubai:
1- Choosing the type of business activity: Determine the type of business activity you wish to practice, as the type of activity affects the permits and licenses required.
2- Determining the legal form of the company: Choose the appropriate legal form for the company, such as a limited liability company (LLC), a joint stock company, or a branch of a foreign company, depending on the type of activity and business plan.
3- Choosing a trade name: Choose an appropriate trade name for your company, taking into account that the name is not similar to the names of other companies and is in compliance with local laws.
4- Applying for a commercial license: Apply for a commercial license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai. The application includes submitting documents such as the articles of association, directors’ IDs, and passports.
5- Choosing an office location or commercial space: Select a suitable location for your office or commercial space, and provide a proven lease for this space.
6- Government Registration: Register the company with other relevant government entities, such as the Regulatory Authority for Business Activities.
7- Open a corporate bank account: Open a business bank account in the company’s name, which may require submitting company documents such as a license and lease.
8- Insurance and additional licenses: Depending on the type of business activity, you may need to obtain additional licenses or permits, such as health or environmental licenses.
9- Completing employment procedures: If you intend to employ employees, you will need to obtain work and residence visas for them.
10- VAT registration: If the business volume exceeds a certain threshold, you may need to register the company for VAT and obtain a tax number.
11- Legal advice: It is advisable to consult a legal advisor or a company formation services office to help you understand the requirements and facilitate the procedures.
Types of commercial registrations available in Dubai
In Dubai, there are several types of commercial registrations that individuals and companies can apply for and establish according to the business activities they wish to practice. Here are some common types of business registrations in Dubai:
Sole Proprietorship: Allows a single individual to establish and operate the business under his or her own name, and is solely responsible for the business and debts.
Limited Liability Company (LLC): LLC is the most common type of company in Dubai, where shareholders are liable for debts up to the value of their shares.
Private Company: Typically requires a specific number of shareholders and a more complex administrative organization than a sole proprietorship.
Public Company: Its shareholding is open to the public and its shares can be traded on the stock market.
Private Joint Stock Company: Typically requires a specific number of shareholders who are specified in the social contract.
Branch of a Foreign Company: A foreign company can establish a branch in Dubai to expand its business.
Civil Company: A group of individuals can establish a sole proprietorship to practice a specific business activity.
Documents Required to Open a Commercial Register in Dubai
To open a commercial register in Dubai, you need to submit a set of basic documents. Here is a list of the required documents:
Passport: A coloured copy of the passport of the owner or owners.
Residence Visa: A copy of the residence visa if you are a resident of the UAE.
No Objection Certificate: If you are opening the company in a free zone, you may need a No Objection Certificate from the relevant authority in that zone.
Power of Attorney: If someone else is acting on your behalf, a certified power of attorney must be submitted.
Personal Photographs: Recent personal photographs of the owner or owners.
Approval from local authorities: If the company will operate in a field that requires special approvals, such as health or educational activities.
Lease Contract: A copy of the lease contract for the company’s headquarters or proof of ownership of the property.
Business Plan: Some free zones may require a business plan outlining the planned activities.
Previous Licenses: If you are operating in a field that requires previous licenses, copies of those licenses must be submitted.
At the end of our article on opening a commercial register in Dubai, we find that the process of establishing a business in this global city offers great opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs thanks to its dynamic business environment and facilitated procedures. Dubai, being one of the most prominent economic centers in the world, offers unprecedented advantages to investors from all over the world, making it an ideal destination for establishing businesses.
The steps to open a commercial register in Dubai include determining the business activity, choosing a trade name, and preparing the necessary documents such as passports and articles of association. Applying for a license from the Department of Economic Development is a crucial step, as this includes submitting the application and paying the prescribed fees. It is worth noting that Dubai offers multiple options, including free zones, where foreigners can own 100% of the company, in addition to the possibility of establishing companies within the city with a local partner if necessary.
One of the main advantages of opening a commercial register in Dubai is the encouraging tax system that includes tax exemptions for companies, which enhances the competitiveness of businesses. Dubai’s modern infrastructure, excellent logistics services, and stable economic environment also provide strong support for businesses.
To ensure the success of the process of opening a commercial register in Dubai, it is advisable to seek the help of legal consultants and company formation service offices to provide appropriate guidance and ensure full compliance with the legal procedures and requirements. Ultimately, your commitment to the correct procedures and taking advantage of the advantages available in Dubai can put you on the right track towards building a successful and sustainable business. Dubai continues to be a major investment destination, and establishing your business here can be a strategic step towards achieving success and growth.
Top Frequently Asked Questions about Opening a Commercial Register in Dubai
Can foreigners own 100% of a company in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can own 100% of the shares of a company in Dubai’s free zones. In non-free zone companies, a local partner is often required to hold 51% of the shares.
What are the fees required to establish a commercial register in Dubai?
The fees include registration and licensing costs, office rent, legal consultancy fees, and bank account opening costs. These fees can vary depending on the type of company and its activity.
How long does it take to obtain a commercial register in Dubai?
Opening a commercial register in Dubai usually takes from a few weeks to a month, depending on the speed of submitting the documents and meeting all the requirements.
Do businesses need a special license in Dubai?
Yes, depending on the type of business activity, businesses may need special licenses or additional permits. For example, businesses in certain fields such as health or food may require special licenses.
Does work visas need to be obtained for founders or employees?
Yes, if you plan to hire employees, you will need to obtain work and residence visas for them. You may also need visas for founders and investors.