# Business Incorporation Services in Dubai, UAE “You dare to start it — we are there to support it.” Company incorporation is the foundation of any business. In Dubai and across the UAE, setting up a company involves a series of formalities, including registration, licensing, PRO services, visas, renewals, approvals, office space arrangements, and bank account assistance. BCL Globiz supports businesses with tailored incorporation solutions based on their needs, scope, and long-term plans. The firm provides guidance throughout the company lifecycle, from initial structuring to ongoing renewals and related formalities. ## Business Structuring and Registration in Dubai Entities planning to set up operations in Dubai must register an appropriate legal structure, such as: - LLC - Sole Establishment - Branch or Liaison Office Before registration, it is important to determine the activities the business will carry out. Every entity in Dubai requires a license, and that license is linked to the approved business activity. Businesses generally choose between two operating jurisdictions: - Mainland - Free Zones ## Licensing and Approvals in Dubai Entities should first reserve a trade name with the relevant authorities. The trade name must be unique and should reflect the business activity. ### Trade Name Guidelines - Alphabets and numbers are allowed, but icons and special characters cannot be used. - Names starting with terms such as “Universal,” “Middle East,” or “International,” including Arabic translations of those terms, are not permitted. - The trade name may include the partner’s or owner’s first and last name, but it should not consist of the last name alone. ## Business Licenses in the UAE Every organization in the UAE must obtain the appropriate license for its operations and renew it periodically. The type of license depends on the nature of the economic activity. A single license may cover more than one business activity. Authorities have approved around 2,300 economic activities, and the latest laws permit 100% foreign ownership in Dubai for 1,061 activities. ### Most Significant License Types 1. **Commercial License** Required for entities engaged in trading goods and commodities in Dubai and the UAE. Commercial activities may include retail trading, transportation, broadcasting, real estate, communication, construction, and healthcare businesses. 2. **Industrial License** Required for industrial or manufacturing businesses that assemble or process goods using raw materials sourced locally or overseas. Additional approvals may be required from authorities such as the Ministry of Finance or the Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure. Industrial activities may include production of food, textiles, metals, equipment and engines, petroleum products, and paper. 3. **Professional License** Required for organizations providing professional services through specialists, consultants, craftsmen, or artisans. This license supports credibility and qualification in a specific field of expertise. Activities may include consultancy, publishing, repair services, security, and artisan services. BCL’s experience in the licensing process helps businesses secure approvals efficiently and reduce the risk of rejection. The firm also supports periodic license renewals. ## Labour Department Registration and Visa Support Organizations registered in the UAE require an Establishment Labour Card. This permits the company to hire employees, obtain work permits, and apply for work visas on behalf of employees. The card verifies the company’s registration with the Ministry of Labor and includes a registration number. BCL helps businesses obtain the labour card number with a focus on minimizing cost and processing time. In addition to registration, BCL assists with visa applications and immigration formalities for foreign investors, partners, and employees. ## Banking Support in Dubai A UAE company needs a bank account with a local, Islamic, or international bank to conduct its financial activities. Local banks may provide greater flexibility for SMEs and startup companies. After selecting the preferred bank, the business must finalize its activities, management structure, stakeholders, and business plan, then submit the application with complete supporting documents. BCL provides guidance and incorporation support tailored to the client’s business goals, with attention to security, privacy, and practical requirements. ## Office Space Support in Dubai A business operating in the UAE is required to maintain a physical presence in the country. The company may choose to buy property or rent office space, with each option involving its own procedures and formalities. Choosing a suitable workspace structure can help reduce capital expenditure. BCL supports businesses in identifying and arranging workspace options, including: - Co-working spaces - Dedicated offices - Flexi desks BCL also assists with business expansions and office movements as the company grows.