Yes, you can set up a company in Dubai while living abroad. Most of the work, from choosing activities and reserving a trade name to signing documents and issuing the licence, can be done remotely with a set-up partner. You will usually need to visit the UAE only for your residence visa medical, Emirates ID biometrics and, in most cases, your bank account meeting.
Can foreigners own 100% of a Dubai company?
For most activities, yes. Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2020, later consolidated in Federal Decree-Law No. 32 of 2021, allows full foreign ownership of mainland companies for the majority of activities. A limited list of “strategic impact” activities, such as defence, telecommunications, banking and insurance, keeps restrictions. Free zone companies have long allowed full foreign ownership.
Step 1: choose mainland or free zone
Your choice depends on where your customers are and what you sell. A mainland company can trade directly anywhere in the UAE and bid for government work. A free zone company is often quicker to set up remotely and suits consultancies, online businesses and international trade. Our earlier guide, “Mainland vs free zone in the UAE”, compares them in detail.
Step 2: pick your activities and legal form
The UAE has more than 2,000 licensable activities and you can usually combine several related ones. The activity decides which approvals you need and sometimes the type of office. Common legal forms are the limited liability company (LLC) on the mainland and the free zone company (FZ-LLC or FZCO, depending on the zone).
Step 3: reserve a trade name and get initial approval
The trade name must follow naming rules (no offensive words, religious references or names of well-known organisations) and include the legal-form suffix such as “LLC”. Initial approval confirms there is no government objection to your business. For mainland companies with foreign shareholders, the authorities also check the investors.
Step 4: sign the legal documents remotely
Mainland LLCs need a Memorandum of Association, attested by a notary. Many authorities now accept remote signing through video notarisation or e-signature, while others may ask for a signed and attested power of attorney from your country. Free zones usually use their own online signing systems.
Step 5: office and licence
Every company needs a registered address. On the mainland this means a lease registered with Ejari in Dubai; free zones offer flexi-desk and office packages. Once the address is in place and fees are paid, the licence is issued, usually electronically.
Step 6: establishment card and visa
After licensing, the company applies for an immigration establishment card, then an entry permit for you as investor or partner. You enter the UAE on that permit, then complete:
- Medical fitness test at an approved centre.
- Emirates ID biometrics.
- Residence visa stamping or e-visa issue.
This is normally the one trip you cannot avoid. See residency in the UAE for details.
Step 7: open a corporate bank account
UAE banks carry out their own checks and most will want to meet at least one shareholder or signatory. Plan your bank meeting for the same visit as your medical and biometrics. Have a clear business plan, proof of source of funds and expected transaction flows ready.
Step 8: register for tax
A new company must register for corporate tax within three months of incorporation, or it risks an AED 10,000 penalty. VAT registration is needed once taxable supplies pass AED 375,000. Our tax page explains both.
Documents checklist
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport copy for each shareholder and manager | At least 6 months’ validity recommended |
| Passport-size photo | White background |
| Proof of address | Recent utility bill or bank statement |
| Short business plan | Often requested by banks and some zones |
| CV or professional profile | For some activities |
| Corporate shareholder documents | If a company is a shareholder; attested certificate of incorporation, board resolution and articles |
Common pitfalls
- Choosing activities that do not match what you will actually do, which causes problems with banks later.
- Underestimating document attestation time for corporate shareholders.
- Booking flights before the entry permit is issued.
- Forgetting the corporate tax registration deadline.
What affects the timeline
There is no fixed timeline, because each authority and bank works to its own process. In our experience, the main factors are:
- Activity approvals. Regulated activities, such as education, health, food or financial services, need extra approvals from other government entities.
- Document readiness. Individual shareholders are usually quick; corporate shareholders need attested documents from their home country.
- Remote signing. Whether the authority accepts video notarisation or needs a power of attorney.
- Your travel date. The visa stage cannot be completed until you are in the UAE.
- Bank due diligence. Banks review each application individually and may ask follow-up questions.
Preparing documents in advance and agreeing your travel window early usually makes the biggest difference.
How Tajnes helps overseas founders
Tajnes manages the whole process remotely, coordinates your single visit for visa and banking, and supports you with PRO services afterwards. Pricing is open-book: government fees, third-party fees and our service fee are shown separately. Check costs with the cost calculator, view offers, or book a consultation. Timelines depend on the authorities and the bank.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to visit Dubai to set up a company?
Usually not for the licence. You will normally need to visit for your visa medical, Emirates ID biometrics and bank meeting.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a Dubai mainland company?
Yes, for most activities, under the amended Commercial Companies Law. A short list of strategic activities remains restricted.
How long does it take to set up a Dubai company from abroad?
It depends on the activity, approvals and documents. Free zone licences can be quick; visas and bank accounts add time. Authorities decide final timings.
Can I open a UAE bank account without visiting?
Some banks may allow this, but most expect to meet a shareholder or signatory in person.
Do I have to live in the UAE after setting up?
No, but a standard residence visa can lapse if you stay outside the UAE for more than six months.
When must my new company register for corporate tax?
Within three months of incorporation, as of October 2026, to avoid the AED 10,000 late registration penalty.
General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and fees change and authorities make all final decisions. T&Cs apply.
