Setting up your UAE company from abroad: what happens when
Most of your company setup can happen before you land. Here's what you can do from home, what needs you in Dubai, and how to fit it into a short trip.
You don't need to move to Dubai to start a company here. Most of the work happens online, and the few steps that need you in person fit into a short trip.
What you can do from home
- Choose between Free Zone and Mainland (take the one-minute questionnaire)
- Pick your business activity and trade name
- Send your passport copy and photo on WhatsApp
- We file your licence application
What needs you in the UAE
For a residence visa, a few steps happen in person:
- The medical test
- Emirates ID biometrics (fingerprints and photo)
Your advisor books them and tells you where to go.
A typical trip
- Day 1: land, meet your advisor, sign what needs signing
- Day 2 to 3: medical test and biometrics
- Day 4 to 5: enjoy the city while we handle the follow-ups
After you fly home, your visa, Emirates ID and bank application keep moving, and your advisor keeps you posted.
Timings depend on the authority, your visa type and your nationality. Your advisor confirms your plan before you book flights.
Paying for it
You can split eligible setup costs into instalments with Tabby or Tamara, subject to their approval. Talk to an advisor to plan your trip.
