Setting up a business in the UAE is an exciting journey, and the process, while straightforward, involves a series of essential steps. Whether you’re planning to establish a company in one of the Free Zones or need to navigate through a variety of regulatory requirements.
Affiniax Partners is here to guide you through each phase of the process. From document preparation to securing your residence visa, we’ve got you covered with a seamless, efficient process!
Step 1: Document Preparation
The first stage of your business setup journey begins with ensuring your documents are thoroughly organized and complete.
Step 2: Submission to the Free Zone
With your documents prepared, the next step is identifying the activity or activities for your new business. This is the cornerstone of your company formation, ensuring alignment with your business objectives. Affiniax Partners will guide you in identifying if any external approvals are necessary for your selected activity. Securing these approvals is crucial for regulatory compliance enabling your business to operate safely and legally.
After finalizing your business activities, the next step involves selecting a trade name. Free Zones typically require three name options, prioritizing the first for availability. In some cases, Free Zones may mandate that the trade name reflects the nature of your business activity.
Step 3: Ownership Structure and Shareholding
The Free Zone will determine this by verifying the shareholding details of your company. If you’re an individual shareholder, a passport (along with your visa and Emirates ID if applicable) will suffice.
For corporate shareholders, however, fully attested corporate documents is required along with the passport of the UBO.
Step 4: Number of Employees
We will guide you to define the number of visas required and ensure your company complies with all relevant regulations.
Step 5: The KYC Process
Once all the documents and details are submitted, the Free Zone will begin their KYC process. This is an essential review to ensure your business is fully compliant. Not only will the Free Zone perform an internal review of the submitted documents, but they may also coordinate externally with other authorities, such as the CID and DET, to verify your application.
Step 6: License Issuance and Registration Completion
Once the KYC process is successfully completed and the authorities give their approval, your business license will be issued. If you’ve opted for visas, the Free Zone will also process an Establishment Card within three days of the license issuance.
This card links your company to the immigration department, allowing you to proceed with residence visa applications for your employees.
Step 7: UAE Residence Visa Application – You’re Officially in Business
The visa application process includes a medical examination and biometric scanning.
Once all steps are completed, the visa and Emirates ID will be issued. Your residence visa will be valid for two years, while your company documents are valid for one year.
Affiniax Partners is your trusted consultant for seamless business setup and company formation in the UAE. Contact us at talent@affiniax.com to get started.
