Timeline for Setting Up a Company in Dubai

The entire company formation process in Dubai can be divided into three key phases:

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Week 1 – Company formation:

• Completion of initial onboarding (personal data form)
• Copy of passport
• Ideally, an entry stamp from your last visit to the UAE (if applicable)
• Professional CV
• Passport-size photo
• Signing of incorporation documents

This stage can be completed remotely — your physical presence in the UAE is not required.

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Week 2 – Visa Processing:

• Submission of your entry visa application

This step also does not require your physical presence in the UAE.

Week 3 – Finalisation:

• Your personal presence in Dubai
• Visa stamping and medical screening
• Application for bank account opening

By the end of the third week, you’ll have your visa issued.

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Estimated Costs of Incorporation and Operation

When budgeting, consider the following recurring and one-time costs:

‍Annual Operating Costs:

• Government fees: €4,000 – €8,000
• Accounting: from €400/month
• Bank fees: from €50 – €200/month
• Corporate administration: €2,750/year from the second year onward

Estimated total annual cost: €12,150 – €16,500

Practical Aspects of Company Formation

When establishing a company in Dubai, it is essential to:

• Choose the right legal structure (Mainland vs. Free Zone)
• Accurately define the business activity
• Select the right bank for your business needs
• Prepare all required documents in advance
• Plan for your personal visit to obtain residency and Emirates ID

The system is highly streamlined — a “one-stop-shop” approach where all key steps are handled in a single location.

Residency Visa & Emirates ID

Company formation includes obtaining:

• Investor (residency) visa
• Emirates ID – a vital document for living and doing business in the UAE
• Optional family sponsorship for dependents

With your Emirates ID, you can:

• Register a local mobile number
• Open a UAE bank account
• Conduct all legal and commercial activities in the Emirates
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Need Help Setting Up Your Company in Dubai?
Our experts will guide you through the entire process – from choosing the right business structure to opening your corporate bank account.
Reach out to us for a free initial consultation.

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