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FAQ

FAQs

Starting a company in Dubai involves understanding various rules, procedures, and documentation based on your business structure – whether it’s a mainland or free zone company. At VAS Global, we’ve compiled some of the most commonly asked questions to help you navigate the process confidently.

Mainland Company Setup in Dubai

What is meant by the Mainland Company in Dubai?
A mainland company is a licensed business entity registered under the Department of Economic Development (DED) of a respective Emirate. It allows entrepreneurs to conduct business both locally and internationally without restrictions.
What are the rules for selecting a trade name for my company?
The trade name should not include words that contradict Arabic or Islamic traditions.
Words referring to God or Islam are not allowed.
The name must not contain the word “Dubai.”
It should accurately describe the nature of the business activity.
The approved trade name must be translated into Arabic for registration purposes.
What steps are involved in establishing a Limited Liability Company (LLC)?
To set up an LLC, you must reserve a trade name, obtain initial approvals, draft a Memorandum of Association, and submit the lease contract and other required documents to the DED for final licensing.
Do investors need to pay any personal taxes on a Mainland Company in Dubai?
No, investors operating under an investor or partner visa are not required to pay personal income tax in the UAE. However, companies must comply with corporate and VAT regulations as applicable.
Do I need to have an office to start a business?
Yes, physical office space is mandatory for obtaining a mainland license. Various office packages are available depending on your budget and business requirements. Reputed Business consultancies in Dubai like VAS Global can assist you in estimating office setup costs.

Investor and Partner Visa FAQs

How soon can I relocate after my investor visa is approved?
Once your investor visa is approved by UAE Immigration, you can relocate immediately to the UAE and begin business operations.
What documents are required for a Partner’s Visa?
The process involves three stages — entry, medical, and stamping.

For Entry Permit: Passport copy, trade license, MoA, service agent or partnership contract, photographs, and immigration card.

For Medical: Passport and visa copy, photographs, and application form.

For Visa Stamping: Medical certificate, Emirates ID form, insurance copy, original passport, and company documents.
Is it necessary to reside in the UAE under an Investor or Partner Visa?
For mainland or LLC companies, yes — a resident or partner visa is required. For free zone companies, investors can retain 100% ownership without residing in the UAE, though a local manager must hold a residence visa.

Free Zone Company Setup FAQs

What are the benefits of setting up a company in a UAE Free Zone?
100% foreign ownership
No personal or corporate tax (50-year exemption)
Full repatriation of profits and capital
Exemption from import/export duties
Advanced infrastructure and business support facilities
How long does it take to establish a Free Zone Company?
With assistance from VAS Global, company formation in a UAE free zone typically takes between 5 to 10 working days, depending on documentation and approvals.
Can a Free Zone company do business within the UAE mainland?
Generally, free zone companies are not permitted to trade directly within the mainland. However, certain professional services may be allowed through approved local agents.
Can I transfer my company from one Free Zone to another?
No, a company cannot be transferred directly between free zones. You must liquidate your existing company and establish a new entity in the desired free zone, or open a branch office instead.
Is it mandatory to have a physical office in a Free Zone?
Yes, most free zones require companies to have an office space. Options include shared desks, flexi-desks, or private offices based on your chosen package.
Can I add or change my business activities after registration?
Yes, you can modify or add business activities later, provided they align with the free zone’s approved list of permissible activities.
What documents are required to operate an online or website-based business?
You’ll need a valid business trade license, the owner’s passport and visa copies, and an Emirates ID to provide online services legally.
Are Free Zone companies exempt from import and export customs duties?
Yes, free zone entities are fully exempted from import and export customs duties, provided transactions occur outside the mainland.
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