The Visa cost for an investor/ employee in Sharjah based Free Zones range from Approx. 3,500 to 4000 AED. The 100% foreign ownership, no income tax and corporate tax, full profit repatriation, favorable business environment, etc., makes Dubai a perfect choice for business investment and establishing a company.

There are many cheapest residence visa options available across the Free Zones of UAE. There are a few special offers where one residence visa cost is waived off too. Taking the cheapest residence visa in UAE will help investors to keep the overall business setup cost low.

Types of UAE Residence Visa for Expatriates

There are many ways in Dubai to obtain a residence Visa. Following are few resident visa options that ex-pats can avail of themselves in the UAE.

1. Free Zone Business License

The easiest way to get a residence visa in UAE is by starting a small business by obtaining a single visa quota business license from anyone Free Zone in UAE.

The Free Zones in UAE offer virtual business licenses to investors with Flexi-desk, and co-working spaces for conducting their desired business activity through obtaining the business license.

The Free Zones in UAE are a vital part of economic growth. It is a secured business jurisdiction and offers UAE residence for company owners, and employees under a company registered in the respective Free Zone as well as provides all required infrastructure facilities for the business to thrive.

2. Mainland Company License

For investors aiming to venture into the mainland of UAE and actively expand their local business, a mainland company license is the right choice. Start a Limited Liability Company in the mainland of Dubai, take an investor visa, and sponsor employees and thrive the business.

Mainland business has many advantages for investors. With 100% ownership for expatriates, easy bank account opening, lower rental expenses, flexibility to expand, etc., LLC Company formation is one of the investor’s favorite choices.

3. Freelance Permit

For young entrepreneurs who want to start their business for the first time or try out the UAE market before going full-fledged by opening a company, getting a Freelance Permit is an ideal choice. It is a type of self-employment visa as the Freelancer is all on his own when it comes to conducting business activities.

There are few Free Zones in UAE that offer Freelance Permits for various business activities. The Freelance Permit will be issued for a person and it won’t be a company. The Self Employment Visa will be available from the respective Free Zone for the entrepreneur. The Self Employment Visa will be for two years (renewable) sponsored by the respective Free Zone.

Using the Freelance Permit, the person can take up projects for the specified business activity in the permit. They can also apply for a UAE residence visa and sponsor dependents for 2 years which is renewable.

Some Free Zones in the UAE offer affordable Freelance Permits that freelancers can apply easily.

Freelance Permits from SHAMS free zone start at AED 5,740. Similarly, there are other Free Zones such as Ajman Free Zone, Umm Al Quwain Free Zone, etc., that offer Freelance Permits at an affordable free for entrepreneurs.

4. Golden Visa

UAE has announced full-fledged long-term visas for expatriates to continue their tenure and contribute to the economy by being in the UAE.

It is also aimed at retaining the best talent in the UAE and generating more business opportunities and business growth. The Long-term residence Visa is not tied up to an employee as the sponsor and the individual will have a 5 to 10-year visa in UAE that is subject to renewal.

The Golden Visa will enable significant foreign investment from global investors who are aiming to make Dubai their home for the long term and will boost the economic outlook.

The strategic industries of UAE such as tourism, real estate, commercial, etc., will get talented employees, more foreign investment, and achieve business growth through long-term golden visas.

5. Green Visa

To further strengthen the economy, create more job opportunities, and retain global talent in UAE, the Government has introduced the Green Visa. There are a lot of benefits in terms of visa rules such as:

• Staying in UAE without a job for 3 to 6 months
• Self-employed people can sponsor themselves and family without the need of an employer
• Sponsor parents and children up to the age of 25, and more.

The recent amendments in the UAE residence laws are for encouraging the expatriates to stay in the UAE and contribute more to the economy. UAE has launched numerous residence visas and other supportive programs for expatriates to easily live, work, and study in UAE along with the family.

6. Property Investment

The real estate market in UAE is very mature with numerous projects read to occupy in various prime locations of UAE.

UAE has a wide range of properties available ranging from affordable to luxury penthouses. With the long-term residence visa and property visas tied up to the property purchase in UAE, the real estate market in UAE is witnessing a major growth prospect.

As per latest update, any one who have purchased a property worth AED 2 million in Loan, Mortgage, or EMI can now apply for Golden Visa. There is no minimum down payment requirement of AED 1 million, the investor will receive a 10-year visa and be able to sponsor dependents too.

The investor must get an NOC from the Developer or the Bank and submit along with the few documents for processing their Golden Visa. Expert Business Consultants such as AURION will guide you through the process seamlessly.

To know more read: Property Visa in UAE

7. Employment Visa

Getting employed in the UAE will entitle you to a UAE resident visa under the sponsorship of the employer. For a first-time visitor to UAE getting on employment, the pathway is ideal to get UAE market experience and later venture into setting up a company for themselves.

Along with the above-stated residence visa, under the new development plan and promoting ex-pat living in UAE, there are retirement visa, special work permits for teenagers, residence visa extensions for widowers for up to 1 year, employment visas holding up to 6months, and more.

The Job Loss Insurance scheme is a new scheme launched by the UAE Government to support the employees incase of a job loss. It is an insurance scheme where a very nominal premium is paid by the employee monthly to the insurance scheme, and they can avail of the benefits during an instance of job loss.

What is UID Number?

The unified Number (UID) is a 6-digit code that can be found on the entry stamp on the last page of the passport or on the visa sticker. Without a UID Number, one cannot complete the application for Emirates ID.

A UID number is a 9-15 digit unique number that gets assigned to a visitor or tourist or resident. The UID numbers are issued by the General Directory of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA). UID remains the same even if you change your visa or status from tourist to resident.

It is a permanent unified identity number. UID is located on the visa page right above the file number. Many expats are not aware of the codes and numbers on their residence visa page

How to Check UID Number Online?

UID numbers can be verified online by visiting the GDRFA website. From the home page click on e-Services and click on ‘Find my UID’.

Provide the passport number, nationality, date of birth, and other information required, and click on the submit button. The webpage will provide you with the UID Number.

In case you are unable to obtain the UID Number online, visit the GDRFA main center in Al Jaflilya, Bur Dubai, or Dubai International Airport Terminal 3. They can issue the UID number for you after reviewing the request.

How to Merge UID Numbers?

There could be instances where one applicant will be having multiple UID numbers. It is mostly caused due to system errors but could affect your resident visa processing.

Hence, in such cases, the multiple UIDs must be merged into a single UID Number by raising the request for the merging. It will clear the immigration records and only one UID will be active for the applicant.

Follow the below steps to merge the UID numbers

• Visit the immigration office in UAE – GDRFA – Al Jafliya, Bur Dubai
• Submit the required documents – Passport copy, entry visa copy ( if any)
• Old, expired, or canceled visa page in passport and copies – for reference purposes
• After submitting the documents for review, the authorities at GDRFA will provide you with the updated UID number that you can use for your new residence visa application, Emirates ID, etc.

So in conclusion, UAE is becoming a family-friendly and expat-friendly location with ample facilities and infrastructure to power businesses of any scale and retain global talent within UAE and boost growth prospects.

To know more about UAE Residence visas and the process of applying, talk to our expert business consultants right away!

The post How to Apply for Residence Visa in UAE – Types of UAE Residence Visa Explained appeared first on AURION.

The market capitalization for Crypto Currency in UAE for 2020 was Approx. USD 265 Billion. The Cryptocurrency market is in a growth phase with the rise in Bitcoin transactions worldwide and new Cryptocurrencies entering the market.

Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Dogecoin, Etherum, Tether, Polkadot, etc, are becoming actively popular in the UAE. Also, online Cryptocurrency trading exchanges enable Bitcoin trading for individuals.

What is a Cryptocurrency License?

To legalize the cryptocurrency business in the UAE, the investor must obtain a commercial license. All the Crypto trading, monitoring, buying, etc., will be regulated by the Crypto license in UAE.

Currently, the cryptocurrency license in UAE is issued by the Following Free Trade Zones:

• DMCC – Dubai Multi-Commodities Centre
• DAFZA –  Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority
• ADGM – Abu Dhabi Global Market
• Sharjah Research Technology & Innovation

Operation of Crypto exchanges in UAE

To operate a crypto exchange in UAE there is a set of regulation and compliance requirements. Also in most cases, the application for a crypto exchange goes through strict scrutiny from the Securities & Commodities Authority, ADGM, and the respective Free Zone authorities.

Opening and operating a Crypto exchange in Dubai is a new thing. It is expected to be a game-changer for the crypto license companies and investors in the UAE.

Taxation of Cryptocurrency Trading Companies

There is no income tax or corporate tax in UAE. Hence there is no tax for crypto trading Companies in Dubai. UAE has Value Added Tax at a very low rate (5%.)

Entrepreneurs can easily set up a crypto trading company in the UAE that is not taxable. However, the regular transactions using cryptocurrency in UAE will be subject to the 5 % VAT.

Procedures to Follow for Obtaining a Crypto Currency License in Dubai

The following steps are to be followed to obtain the Cryptocurrency license in Dubai:

• Submit the cryptocurrency license application form to the respective Free Zones
• Submit the required documents of the shareholders – passport copy, photographs
• A brief business plan and share capital to successfully run the company
• Choose the suitable office space based on the requirement and prepare the tenancy agreement
• Make the required payment for the Crypto License and Office Rent

Post the approval by the respective Free Zone authorities, the Crypto trading license will be issued for the company. The investor can then apply for a UAE residence visa and proceed to the opening of a corporate bank account in the UAE.

Crypto License Governing Bodies in UAE

UAE aims to provide an integrated ecosystem for the cryptocurrency trading and blockchain sector and adapt to the latest technology trends driving economic growth.

The Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) along with DMCC has worked out a regulatory framework for businesses in the line of cryptocurrency trading, listing, management, etc.

The Dubai Airport Free Zone also will follow similar guidelines and register cryptocurrency trading licenses for the investors.

Crypto License Guidelines from Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone

Similarly, the FSRA (Financial Services Regulatory Authority) and ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market Free Zone) publish certain guidelines on cryptocurrency trading and business licenses.

The regulations of Crypto Assets Activities in ADGM is the most extensive regulatory framework available in UAE and there is no other law governing cryptocurrency in UAE currently.

However, with the prominence of cryptocurrency trading, the UAE Government is all set to introduce a detailed regulatory framework for cryptocurrency license issuance and Crypto trading.

DMCC Launches New Crypto Centre in Dubai

DMCC has launched a Crypto Centre, a comprehensive ecosystem for businesses operating in the crypto trading and blockchain sectors.

It is aimed to be a hub for the development and application of crypto and blockchain technologies. The center will provide support to all types of companies to develop solutions related to blockchain and crypto technology.

DMCC Crypto Center – The Crypto and Blockchain Hub of UAE

The new center will provide co-working spaces to crypto entrepreneurs and SMEs to test and develop their blockchain and crypto solutions.

The Centre also has a crypto advisory practice led by CV labs, the entity behind the Switzerland Government-backed Crypto Valley. Also, a series of incubators and accelerator programs are lined up for the start-ups who intend to receive funding for their crypto projects.

The DMCC’s new Crypto Centre will be center stage for Dubai’s future blockchain initiatives. Dubai has emerged as a global hotspot and technology leader in the blockchain and related applications. With the addition of the DMCC Crypto Center, the blockchain and crypto ecosystem in the UAE is expanding to new heights.

To know more about Crypto License in UAE & Cryptocurrency business in Dubai. Talk to our expert Business Consultants right away!

Contact Us: Aurion Business Consultants

The post CryptoCurrency License in UAE – How to start a Cryptocurrency Business in Dubai? appeared first on AURION.

UAE tops the list of ‘Ease of Doing Business in the Middle East region and offers a variety of low-cost company license packages for investors to choose from. The Business Amendment Laws in UAE aims at providing entrepreneurs a friendly ecosystem to easily do business in the country.

The article covers a list of the latest business amendment laws in UAE that an entrepreneur must know for conducting smooth business operations. To avoid fines and do business legally, there are certain business laws the investor have to adhere.

Following are few of the Business Law Amendments in UAE that every entrepreneur must know for operating a business in the country.

Business Laws Amendments for Entrepreneurs in UAE

To streamline and create transparency in the business world over the years UAE has introduced a series of transformational business law amendments.

Safeguarding the interest of investors is the topmost priority in UAE and the changes are reflecting positive sentiments in the market of UAE being the safest and most robust business center in the world.

List of Recent Business Amendments for Entrepreneurs

Here is a list of a few business amendments that every entrepreneur in the UAE must be aware of and comply with.

These amendments are aimed at promoting economic activities more effectively and helping global investors to easily set up companies and scale up their establishments quicker in the region.

1. Stimulus Packages and Incentives

The Stimulus Package and Incentives were provided to businesses in the UAE during the pandemic period. When globally there was a slowdown in trade, employment, and business growth, the Stimulus Package from the UAE Central Bank and the Government saved ailing companies in the region.

Stimulus Package and Investor Confidence

The issuance of the stimulus package in the UAE has raised investor confidence and the new company registrations in UAE are at an all-time high.

The Dubai Government launched an AED 1.5 billion economic stimulus package for supporting the business affected by the pandemic.

From rent relief to interest-free loans and payment deferrals, the UAE government is in-game with boosting the business scenario in the region.

2. Foreign Direct Investment on Key Sectors

With 100% foreign ownership in onshore companies in the mainland of UAE to reducing the minimum share capital to set up a mainland company in UAE for foreign investors. The 100% expatriate ownership in mainland came in as a major business law amendment in UAE.

UAE is offering several options for opening a business in the region for foreign investors. It is focusing on building a transparent and robust business ecosystem for the investor to do business in the region.

The Free Zones in UAE are a major driving force to foreign direct investment in the form of opening new companies in the UAE and strengthening the economic activities.

3. Economic Substance Regulation

The Economic Substance Regulation is a policy launched in UAE to ensure the companies operating in UAE comply with the international tax laws. The ESR is also another major Business Law Amendment that all companies under the ‘Relevant Activities’ must adhere to the ESR Filing and Regulations.

ESR states that any business entity in the UAE onshore and Free Zone companies and other business forms that carry out any of the ‘Relevant Activities; listed in the regulatory framework must maintain an adequate ‘economic presence’ in the UAE.

ESR Regulations are aimed at creating transparency in the market and a strategic move towards Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and illegal organizations.

4. Ultimate Beneficiary Owners

Ultimate Beneficiary Owner (UBO) is a natural person who owns more than 25% of a company shares registered in UAE. UBO Registration is another latest business law amendment that all companies operating in UAE must adhere with to avoid any compliance issues.

All details of the shareholders are now to be included along with the ESR Documentation. It is aimed at creating transparency and reduce illegal transactions.

Hence the declaration of Ultimate Beneficial Owner helps in establishing an effective regulatory mechanism and procedure for stating the ownership details of the company operating in UAE with the Ministry of Finance.

5. Know Your Customer (KYC) Norms for Opening Corporate Bank Account

UAE has a well-secured network of international and local banks UAE. Recently with the impact of the Pandemic, business lending and day-to-day transactions have had a significant impact across every bank globally.

Banks in UAE are highly supportive of the business sector with business incentives such as loan deferrals, banking charge waive-offs, attractive financial solutions, easy bank accounting openings, and more.

There is strict KYC Compliance in all UAE Banks for opening a corporate bank account. They require a bank statement (from the previous bank), a robust business model, and an investor profile to review.

6. VAT Registration and Filing

The Value Added Tax in UAE applies to all consumer and commercial transactions in the region at a rate of 5 %. There are certain criteria for registering the VAT. Companies must be aware of the VAT rules in UAE for smooth operations of their business.

The Federal Tax Authority is the governing body for overseeing VAT compliance, regulations, and the VAT regime in the UAE. For small businesses, entrepreneurs, and freelancers it is not mandatory to file until they have not reached the VAT Threshold.

VAT Registration Compliance to Follow

VAT registration is mandatory for companies that have an annual turnover of AED 375,000. Companies that get VAT-registered benefits can opt for voluntary registration for VAT even though the annual turnover is less than AED 375,000.

Those companies registered for VAT must submit the VAT Returns periodically. Also, file for any VAT refund for business supplies, maintain the VAT record, and pay the due to FTA accordingly.

To know more, read: VAT Registration in UAE

Legal Documents every Entrepreneur must be having in UAE

A new business in UAE must have a strong legal structure and disciplined operations to successfully scale up and achieve sustainability. The company while registering in UAE will receive the Trade License where the mention of the list of business activities chosen will be present.

Also, the Trade License will have the shareholder information, date of company incorporation and expiry date. Another important document is the Memorandum and Article of Association. It states the terms and conditions and rules relevant to the company operations.

Having all the company documents in place enable the business to protect their investment and intellectual property of the business.

An investor or a company must always have their establishment card valid for applying the employee visas as required.

Employee and Company Documents that Must be Available Handy

The next key document is the Non-Disclosure Agreement, employee contracts, and offer letters to keep the employees, and supplier relationship strong.

Then comes the requirement of documentation like the company trade secrets such as trademark registration certificates for the marketing assets, Intellectual Property rights for new products/applications, etc.

Hence, in a nutshell, there are numerous business law amendments in UAE that the investor must closely follow.

All the latest amendments in the Ultimate Beneficiary Ownership, Economic Substance Regulation, VAT Registration, and is having a significant effect on the current businesses that are operating in the country.

To know more about the process and documents required for company formation in UAE, talk to our expert Business Consultants right away!

Contact Us: Aurion Business Consultants

The post Latest Business Amendment Laws in UAE for Entrepreneurs to Follow appeared first on AURION.

Hence, Trademark Registration has an important role to play in the modern marketing scenario.

How Trademark Registration in UAE Will Benefit Organizations?

Trademarks are essential assets to help grow their business. It helps in working hard to maintain the reputation and maintain the level of quality in the services and products.

1. Trademarks as a Communication Tool

Having a trademark registered Brand Logo communicates the brand story of reputation, emotional attributes, and reliability to the customers.

Customers like to hear the story from a brand to get associated with the products and services offered by a specific brand.

Trade Mark Registration – Crucial Component for Effective Marketing

Marketing channels are a medium to share the brand story to the customers using assets like the brand logo, brand color, images, and videos, etc.

All the marketing assets designed to be standardized and uniform for a brand to increase the recall value. If any competitors or other brands use the same assets or similar-looking ones, the effect of marketing will diminish.

Trademark registration is the solution to it. It helps in safeguarding a brand’s marketing efforts and reach the audience more effectively.

2. Customer can identify you easily

It is an easy way for customers to identify the brand. The organization can stand out from the competitors using the unique branding elements.

It is one of the efficient commercial communication tools to gain customer attention, gain trust, and make your business profitable.

3. Social media Branding

Branding is a key aspect for a company to establish its significant presence in the Digital world. With the intense competition in social media platforms, search engines, and other internet sources, brands to stay different through the branding assets put to use.

Having a standardized branding asset that is a trademark registered will help gain trust among the online visitors who might be your first-time visitors and would not be knowing much about the brand yet.

4. Valuable Asset

The value of Trademark Registered Assets will appreciate over time as the company goes and branding elements become widely used in marketing.

It helps in growing business into new industry verticals and ventures into newer geographies with easily gaming customer confidence and strong branding rights.

5. Employee Retention

Trademark Registration also enables the organization in providing a sense of security and positivity to its employees.

Also the reliability and quality of products and services make them feel motivated to work and be part of a reputed organization than a normal company.

6. Trademark Registration Validity

The validity of a Trademark Registration is for 10 years and is renewable by paint a fee. Depending on the geography where the trademark is registered under it has the scope being in use globally or locally.

Trademark Registration Certificate in UAE is issued by the Ministry of Economy and is governed by the Federal Law No.37 of 1992 Trademarks.

To know more details about the Process, Documents Required, Fees, etc., read: Trademark Registration

7. Enhance Investor Confidence

Investors will assess the trademarks under the brand before signing up with you and will have an enhanced value for the organization. Trademark registration increases security and helps in gain trust during any merging, franchising, or partnership, etc.

Having a company name trademarked for years has its reputation. Building a brand takes a lot of effort and trademarking help in securing the assets.

8. Protection from Counterfeits

Legal protection from Trademark Registration is helpful during an infringement or violation. As a company that has its assets trademark registered, they can file a legal notice against the counterfeit brand. The exclusive rights for your brand assets vests with you.

Why Registering a Trademark in UAE is Crucial?

The business ecosystem in UAE is very robust with a growing number of companies getting registered every year. According to the Ministry of Economy, a total of 300,000 licenses were issued in Dubai by the end of June 2020.

There is intense competition in every industry vertical here in UAE. Hence the business or products developed by you always have a risk of being copied.

Now, to stand out among competitors in UAE, there are rigorous marketing efforts required for brands.

Trademark Registration is an effective way to gain customer likes. There is a perceived trust associated with trademark registration in UAE. It helps to improve the quality and reliability of the brand.

Key Highlight of Trademark Registration

In the UAE customers give quality and customer satisfaction he tops priorities in every purchase. Registering a Trademark for your brand protects the marketing assets from get counterfeited or being used by others without permission.

It helps to legally cover the brand from the risk of losing credibility with customers after somebody uses your brand name, products & services without consent. As branding is very crucial in modern marketing. A lot of effort and investment go to marketing a brand.

Hence, additional investment into getting your brand asset secured is the most essential budgeting every organization must consider. The long-term positive effects of getting a trademark for your brand are way beyond the fee paid for the trademark registration.

To know more about Trademark Registration, connect with our expert Business Consultants right away!

Contact us: Aurion Business Consultants

The post 8 Reasons Why Trademarks Are Important to Your Business appeared first on AURION.

Also, for certain apartment types, there is always a demand in UAE. Additionally, the properties in the hospitality sector is an investment area that is considered a profitable in Dubai. Generally, the Rental returns are assured in Dubai despite the downtime and falling property prices globally.

Start a Real Estate Company in Dubai

Real Estate companies in Dubai have certain procedures and requirements to follow. These are entities that involve the buying, selling, and renting of apartments, villas, townhouses, commercial buildings, etc., in UAE.

Depending on the shareholder pattern the company structure for the real estate company in Dubai must be chosen accordingly.

There is a growing demand for real estate properties in Dubai and there are many active real estate projects that are nearing completion. The real estate landscape in Dubai is currently in a boom period.

The 1 bedroom and Studio Apartments will be always in demand across UAE as most of the employed expat community in UAE stay in such apartment types. While their family will be in their home town. Hence, there is immense potential for a Real estate company setup in Dubai.

Real Estate Agency – Suitable Company Structures in Dubai

There is a boom in the real estate business as the market is on an upturn. So, a real estate company setup in Dubai is beneficial for the business owner. Depending on the number of shareholders and business authority, there are multiple company types available in UAE.

A real estate company can be set up as any of the below company structures:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Limited Liability Company
• Civil Company
• Free Zone Establishment

For real estate brokerage, the company or individual must obtain a certificate from the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) under the Dubai Land Department. The Real Estate License and the agent registration number is issued after attending a course from RERA.

Real estate company setup in Dubai involves a series of steps that the investor must follow. It is best advisable to seek the assistance of an expert Business Consultant for setting up a real estate company in Dubai.

How to Get a Real Estate License in Dubai?

Real Estate is a prospective business category in the UAE. It is a key industry that contributes to the economy of the UAE. Getting a business license is a mandatory requirement for a real estate company setup in Dubai.

There are various business activities in the broad real estate sector. Depending on the investor’s preference and business background, they must choose the right business activity for starting a real estate company in Dubai.

Property Management License in Dubai is one of the most popular business license categories in the real estate sector. The Property Management License in Dubai can be applied from Dubai Economy or any of the Free Trade Zones in Dubai.

Property Management License covers a wide range of business activities ranging from:

• Contracting with Clean-up, Maintenance, Security Companies
• Administration Requirements Provider for Real Estate Space
• Real Estate Broker Arrangements, and more.

UAE Commercial Law and RERA the regulatory arm of the Dubai land Department aims to offer complete security to the investor when it comes to real estate related transactions in Dubai.

Similarly, a real Estate Brokerage is a preferred business license by investors who wish to conduct real estate transactions in UAE. The real Estate Brokerage Business involves a large number of transactions.

It can be formed as 100% foreign ownership in the Mainland as per the new amendment. However, to reduce the risk of ex-pat investors absconding with huge sums and misusing the license, a UAE national can be added as a shareholder or as a local service agent.

Procedures Involved in Obtaining a Real Estate Business License in Dubai

There are many procedures involved in real estate company setup. Among that, obtaining a real estate business license in Dubai is the most important step. Furthermore, adding the shareholders and appointing managers are an important step in the real estate company setup in Dubai.

For expatriates and Foreign Investors, a professional business license can also be obtained from a Free Zone and can easily set up a 100% owned company without any hassles.

Get associated with an expert business consultant in UAE to register your property management. real estate business.

Types of Real Estate Business Activities in Dubai

There are various types of real estate business activities in Dubai, The real estate brokerage is a popular one among them.

The Real estate brokerage in UAE has two different groups – Real Estate Leasing, and Real Estate Buying & Selling Brokerage. The role of Real Estate Brokerage is working as a link between landlords and tenants regarding property lease against the amount.

The buying and selling brokerage involves real estate property purchases between the owners and buyers.

Procedures of a Registration of a Real Estate Company in Dubai

A real estate company in Dubai can be registered by following the below procedures. In the mainland of Dubai, the real estate company setup is governed by the Dubai Economy, Dubai Land Department, and the RERA.

Business owners can follow the below steps to register their real estate company in Dubai and obtain the Real Estate business license from the respective trade licensing authority.

1. Confirm a Trade Name

Choose the tradename and get the name approved by the Dubai Economy. It is the first step in company formation.

2. Initial Approval Request

Submit the required application form, supporting document – investor passport copy, photograph, etc., and get the initial approval from the authorities.

3. Approval from Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA)

For opening a real estate company, the investor/director/manager must appear for the RERA Course and pass the test.

Once the approval certificate from RERA is obtained, the official contract and other agreements can be prepared accordingly.

4. Legal Documentation

Once the initial approval is received and the RERA Certificate is obtained, the investor can choose the required office space and the tenancy contract can be prepared.

In the case of an LLC Company Structure ( Companies with more than one shareholder), the memorandum of association is to be prepared by the investor.

Also,  the partnership agreement for the LLC Company must be made ready.

5. License from DED

All investor documents along with the MOA, RERA Approval, tenancy contract, etc., must be submitted to DED to obtain the real estate license from the authority.

The cost of a real estate business license from DED is approx. 25000 for services license.

6. Registration with RERA

Register the company with RERA to obtain the RERA Registration Certificate. Submit all the required documents to secure the Registration Certificate.

Documents to be submitted:

The following documents are required to be submitted to RERA for the Approval of the Real Estate Business Company operations in Dubai.

• RERA Application Form
• DED Business License Copy
• Payment Receipt
• RERA Course Certificate
• Tenancy control/Ejari Copy
• Location Map

7. Registration with DNRD and Ministry of Labor

To hire employees and sponsor the visas, the company has to be registered with DNRD and the Ministry of Labor.

8. Obtaining Brokers Card

The Real Estate Agent employed by the company must be a holder of the brokers’ card issued by RERA.

Cost of Starting a Real Estate Company in UAE

The cost of Real Estate Company Setup in Dubai depends on the business jurisdiction chosen.

To set up a Real Estate business establishment in UAE, the investor has to shell out Approx. AED 25,000 as the business setup cost for a mainland company.

There are various company structures in the  Free Zone and Mainland. There are single shareholder Free Zone Company, multiple shareholder Free Zone Company, LLC Company – DED mainland.

Real Estate Business License is categorized under the Professional License type in UAE. The cost of setting up a real estate brokerage in the Free Zones of UAE is a cost-effective means to easily start an establishment in UAE.

An investor can opt for a fully furnished ready-made office for their real estate company and avail a host of business benefits offered by the Free Zones of UAE.

To know more about opening a real estate company in UAE, talk to our expert business consultants right away!

The post Real Estate Company Setup in Dubai – Things to Know for the Foreign Investor appeared first on AURION.

Starting from choosing the right company structure to obtaining the trade license, there are few steps that investors must be knowing to have a hassle-free company setup in UAE.

Investors in UAE – Things to Know before setting up a company

Knowing the right steps will help entrepreneurs save significant start-up costs. Also, to successfully run the business operations, the investor must ensure the company registration is done the right way complying with the business laws and authority guidelines.

Things to Know for the Investors before setting up their business establishment in the UAE.

Company Structure

There are a few company structures for setting up a business in the UAE. The company structure varies depending on the business jurisdiction – Free Zone, Mainland & Offshore.

1. Limited Liability Company

Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the most popular company structure in the Mainland of UAE. It No longer requires appointing a UAE National Sponsor for the company (51% share ownership) and the rest by the foreign owner.

Now, expatriate investors can own 100% shares in a mainland LLC Company as per the latest Commercial Companies Law.

There are only few strategic industry sectors and special business activities such as chemical products, petroleum products, banking services, etc., where local partner requirement is still a requirement.

Again, depending on the share capital deposit and approval requirements, the full ownership can be retained by the expatriate investor.

2. Sole Proprietorship

Another type is Sole Proprietorship where the investor will be the Single Owner of the establishment. A professional License has to be taken for this and is a favorable option for consultants, advocates, doctors, to start a small establishment themselves.

3. Civil Works Company

Civil Works Company in the mainland is another common company type that requires a professional license. It requires appointing a Local Service Agent for liaising with the government authorities for administrative and visa works.

4. Public Joint Stock Company

There are other types of Company Structures like Public Joint Stock Company, General Partnership, Simple Limited Partnership, Private Shareholding Joint Stock, and Branch of a Foreign Company.

5. Free Zones in UAE

Moving to the Free Zones there are mainly two Company structures that are Free Zone Establishment – Single Shareholder Company, and the Free Zone Company – Formed by more than 2 and up to 50 shareholders.

Some Free Zones in UAE has the provision of registering an FZ-LLC company structure for the investors, it is a 100% foreign-owned company eligible to enjoy all the benefits offered by the Free Zone

Documents Required for Company Setup in UAE

Most of the companies registered in the Free Zones and the mainland requires very minimal documentation. Few business activities require additional approvals and site inspections.

Often Commercial and Industrial Licenses require site/warehouse inspections and clearance from the government departments for ensuring the safety standards are in place.

Special Approvals and Business History for Corporate Bank Account Opening

Also, there are certain selected industry sectors like Finance, Transports, Oil & Gas, Healthcare, Education, etc., that require pre-approval.

Most of the business activities to be registered requires minimal documentation – investor passport and photograph.

However, during applying for the corporate bank account, the KYC norms would require to furnish previous business history, investor profile, previous company details (if any).

LLC Company in UAE – Documents Required

For LLC Company setup the following documents are required:

• Shareholder Agreement with the UAE National Sponsor
• Side Agreement to protect the rights of the foreign owner as well as UAE National Sponsor
• No-Objective Certificate (if already having UAE Residence Visa)
• Passport Copy & Photograph of Investor
• Board Resolution stating appointing of director/manager to newly formed LLC Company

LLC Company is an establishment in the mainland and can easily expand to locations within the UAE by forming branches of LLC Company. It is an ideal company structure for general trading companies intending to tap the local UAE market.

Steps for Company Steps in UAE

Now comes the understanding of the steps in the company setup process in the UAE. Be it a Free Zone company or an LLC one, the steps are the same. For Free Zones there is no requirement for the local Service agent.

Following are the Steps involved in Company setup in UAE

1. Choose the trade name and get the name approved. Follow the guidelines while choosing the trade name as the brand is built on the trade name
2. Finalize the company structure and the business activity (Aurion will assist you in choosing it right)
3. Choose the right business jurisdiction- Free Zone, mainland, or offshore
4. Submit the required documents, get the clearances and pay the fees
5. Choose the right office space and prepare the tenancy contract
6. Obtain the business license and start operating the business from day 1
7. Apply for a UAE Residence visa and proceed to open a corporate bank account.

Company setup in UAE is relatively straightforward, however, the process could get lengthy if not done the right way.

Hence, it is advisable to take the assistance of experienced Business Consultants like Aurion Business Consultants to set up your company in the most comfortable way.

To know more about Company Formation in UAE, talk to our expert Business Consultants right away!

Contact: Aurion Business Consultants

The post Company Setup in UAE – What do new entrepreneurs/investors need to know? [ A Detailed Guide] appeared first on AURION.

Why is the UAE the Right Choice for Setting Up a Logistics Company?

The strategic location of UAE coupled with Government support and initiatives towards promoting trade locally and internationally has transformed the region into a trade hub of the world.

UAE is an international transit hub and an intermediary stop point for international trade across the world. It has a robust logistics support system, warehouse facilities, a dedicated zone for handling large cargos, and many more.

How to Start a Logistics Company in UAE?

UAE is home to a bunch of international trading companies as well as numerous local entrepreneurs in the field of Logistics and trade operations. As a new business venture in the trade and logistics segment, the company must be bringing in innovation or an advanced business model to strive through the intense competition in the segment.

However, despite the competition, there is a vast opportunity in the field of logistics and distribution. Often large companies in the logistics segment only work with higher quantity and premium service fee, low cost providers might lack in customer service and technology-driven strategic implementations.

Entrepreneurs with a fair knowledge of the UAE market segment and customer preference will succeed in launching their business venture easily in UAE

Ideal Free Zones for opening a Logistics Company in UAE

Each Free Zone in UAE has distinct benefits and based on investor requirements the right Free Zone Business Setup Package is to be chosen. Aurion will assist you in picking the right choice for your business by assessing your precise business requirements.

Note: The list of Free Zones included below is not an exhaustive list, there are more than 45 Free Zones in UAE and most of the Free Zones offer business License for the activities under the Logistics sector.

The below list of Free Zones is curated based on the business benefits for the investors of a logistics company by setting up their business in the below Free Zones.

1. Dubai Airport Free Zone

Dubai Airport Free Zone is the world’s top Free Zone offering attractive company formation packages to the global investors. Dubai Airport Free Zone is the ideal choice for setting up a logistics company due to the enormous business benefits offered by the Free Zone.

Dubai Airport Free Zone – Key Highlights

The proximity to one of the world’s busiest airport makes it easy for trading and logistics companies to handle the Air Cargo Shipments at reduced transportation cost and handling fees.

The Free Zone offers custom-build warehousing facilities and light manufacturing & assembling units starting from 350Sq.m onwards with an office space and 30 employee visas.

The 0% import duty on all imports to Free Zone, Zero Taxation policies, and 100% foreign ownership are the highlights for foreign companies considering this Free Zone as the final choice.

Also, the easy company setup, UAE residence visa processing, bank account opening, and the prestigious Dubai Address is the additional benefits for the entrepreneurs.

2. Sharjah Airport International Free Zone

The Sharjah Airport International Free Zone is a reputed Free Zone in the emirates of Sharjah. The proximity to the Sharjah International Airport and the Khalid Sea Port makes this Free Zone the right Launchpad for logistics and trading companies aiming at local, GCC, and International Markets.

The company formation in SAIF Zone is relatively easy with minimum paperwork. The Free Zone also offers custom-build warehouses, land of warehouse/manufacturing units, as well as customized office spaces.

To know more about the warehouse specifications in the Sharjah Airport Free Zone, enquire with our experts!

3. Dubai South Free Zone

Dubai South Free Zone is the fastest growing Free Trade Zone and a preferred logistics hub in Dubai.

Dubai South specifically caters to logistics and trading companies by offering state of the art warehouses of customizable sizes to suit a wide range of requirements from the entrepreneurs.

With easy access to the Jebel Ali Port through a special logistics corridor and the Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), the Free Zone is transforming the logistics and distribution network in UAE.

How to Setup a Logistics Company in Dubai South?

The Dubai South Free Zone offers numerous business setup packages for investors by following simple steps. Taking the assistance of expert Business Consultants will make the company registration process hassle-free.

Steps in Setting Up a Logistics Company in Dubai South Free Zone

• Prepare the application form for the initial approval
• Choose the right trade name and get the approval
• Choose the right business setup package (License type, office space, office type) – Aurion will assist you here in choosing the right company setup package)
• Prepare the documentation (shareholder resolution, passport copy, business plan) and submit the relevant documents for the company registration
• Pay the required fee and obtain the business license post-approval of the documents
• Also, obtain the company documents such as the incorporation certificate, special approvals (if any)
• Proceed to apply the UAE Residence Visa and Bank Account opening

So, in a nutshell, UAE is the perfect location for establishing a logistics company and easily scale up by tapping into the growing business opportunities in the region.

Here are few more choices of Free Zones for Setting up a Logistics Company in UAE, watch the full video!

There are numerous small and big trading companies and a growing consumer base in UAE. Logistics and distribution companies are the means to connect these suppliers/manufacturers with the end-consumer.

Those companies that provide exceptional service will get positive customer feedback and will be able to scale up easily with a growing number of order fulfilments.

To know more about Starting a Logistics Company in UAE, talk to our Expert Team right away!

Read more about “Tips for Setting up a Trading, Logistics, or Supply Chain Company in Dubai” and Import export licenses in UAE.

The post How to open a Logistics Company in UAE? appeared first on AURION.