6 Steps to set up Companies in Free Zones in the UAE
6 Steps to set up Companies in Free Zones in the UAE – The UAE economy is booming for several reasons, most notably the setting up companies in the free zones in the Emirates.
In addition to the flexible laws, and the smooth procedures provided by the state to businessmen and investors.
So, In this article, we will talk about 6 steps to set up companies in the free zones in the UAE, and legal group services in this field, to ensure you a successful and distinguished business.
What is free zone?
Free zones are defined as free trade zones, where various goods and services are traded. Free zones emerged to promote international business, by providing benefits and advantages to foreign companies to encourage foreign investment. There are more than 40 free zones across the UAE, which have evolved to meet different needs. And to be the best choice for import and export trade.
Set up companies in free zone in the UAE
Thinking about setting up your business in the UAE is the first step to ensuring the success of your corporate goals. Because the presence of the company in a region that facilitates the establishment and development of its business, such as the free zones in the Emirates, contributes to great success at all levels.
Why to set up companies in free zone in the UAE?
There are many reasons that could encourage you to set up your company in the free zone in UAE:
1- Easy procedures to set up your company
The process of setting up companies in the free zones in the UAE is straightforward and easy. It depends on two factors: your business and the free zone you choose.
You may need some basic documents like passport copies and commercial papers, and the whole process takes only a week or two.
2- Comfortable tax system
Many entrepreneurs choose to invest in free zones in the UAE, due to the ease of the tax system. In addition to benefiting from the 0% corporate and personal tax, your business is also currently exempt from VAT at a rate of up to 5%.
On the other hand, free zone companies are exempt from import and export tax and can trade without currency restrictions.
3- Ownership of foreign companies
Setting up a foreign company in the UAE requires partnering with a local entrepreneur. And this does not apply to set up companies in the free zones in the UAE.
Any foreign entrepreneur can set up his company with full ownership without the need for a partner.
4- Trade in the United Arab Emirates
Free zone companies are not allowed to trade directly with the local market in the UAE. It is possible to work with a designated distributor locally who can bring your goods and services to market for a set fee.
But you can set up your own free zone business, then open branch offices of the free zone company across the Emirates at a later time.
5- Support and help
Free zone authorities are working to provide various assistance during the set up of your company there.
Most free zones provide visa assistance for both shareholders and any dependents such as spouses or local employees.
Which helps in opening corporate bank accounts, and advises the best bank for your needs.
6- privacy protection
Free zones are particularly popular with privacy-conscious entrepreneurs, as there is no open proof of company ownership, and company information such as shareholder details is not disclosed to the public.
How to set up Companies in Free Zones in the UAE?
There are a set of steps that must be followed, to set up companies in the free zones in the UAE:
1- Determine the type of business
The first step to set up your company in the free zone in the UAE, is to choose the type of business.
It is possible to choose from hundreds of commercial activities, which is important in determining the cost of applying for a license and the free zone that best suits your business needs.
2- Choose your company’s name
Deciding on a company name can be a challenge anywhere in the world, but here in the UAE – with its own rules regarding naming conventions – it will be a necessary and delicate task.
You should refer to the relevant Free Zone Authority, or the relevant Department of Economic Development for the authorized trade names, in each emirate of the UAE.
3- Apply for a business license
The commercial license can be chosen according to the type of business you want to practice in the country.
The application process requires a completed application form and passport copies of the shareholders. Some Free Zones may also require you to submit a business plan.Therefore, it is better to hire a team of experts, to complete your work easily and professionally. As our team at Legal Group.
4- Choose offices and work facilities
Office space can be purchased or rented in the free zones, depending on the number of employees and the type of business of the company. Available spaces may vary from one free zone to another in the Emirates.
5- Obtaining initial approvals and licensing
According to The United Arab Emirates’
Government portal, There are a number of things you need to get the initial approvals:
- Completed application form
- Business plan
- Copy of existing trade licence/registration certificate (if you are an existing company, applicable for local company only)
- Coloured passport copies of the company’s shareholder/s and the appointed Manager/Director for the new company
- Specimen signature of the company’s shareholder/s and the appointed Manager/Director for the new company
- 2 years’ audited financial reports for corporate entity or certificate of reference from a personal bank of the individual shareholder
- NOC from current sponsor (for individuals)
- Unit title deed
- Letter of Intent
- Registry Identification Code Form (RIC) for Manager/Director (Original and notarised)
6- B. Registration
After obtaining initial approval and paying the necessary fees, you will need the following documents:
- Completed application for registration
- Board Resolution appointing Manager/Director (Notarised and attested)
- Power of Attorney given to Manager/Director (Notarised and attested)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (Notarised and attested)
- Specimen signature of Manager/Director (Notarised and attested)
- Passport-size photo of Manager/Director against white background
- Share capital information
6 Steps to set up Companies in Free Zones in the UAE
In conclusion, these were 6 steps to set up Companies in free zone in the UAE. Therefore, contact us at Legal Group to establish your company or factory in the UAE, within 48 hours only. We do all collection services and represent your organization in a responsible and professional manner.