Setting up a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Dubai is one of the most reliable and rewarding ways to start a business in the UAE mainland. Dubai offers a stable economic environment, strategic global connectivity, and flexible regulations, making the LLC structure ideal for long-term business growth.
What Is an LLC in Dubai?
A Limited Liability Company is a legal business structure where the shareholders’ liability is limited to the value of their shares. The LLC model is widely preferred for its flexibility and suitability across trading, services, manufacturing, contracting, and various commercial activities.
Key features of an LLC include:
- 1 to 50 shareholders
- Full trading rights anywhere in the UAE
- Ability to hire unlimited staff
- Eligibility for investor and employee visas
- Strong legal and financial protection
Benefits of LLC Formation in Dubai
✔ Limited Liability Protection
Your personal assets remain protected. You are only responsible for your investment in the company.
✔ 100% Foreign Ownership (For Many Activities)
The UAE now allows full foreign ownership for most business activities, eliminating the need for a local partner in many cases.
✔ Operate Across the Entire UAE
Mainland LLCs are allowed to trade, offer services, and contract with both government and private sectors anywhere in the country.
✔ Wide Choice of Business Activities
Dubai offers hundreds of approved activities across commercial, service-based, and industrial categories.
✔ High Market Credibility
Dubai mainland companies enjoy strong trust from banks, suppliers, customers, and international partners.
Step-by-Step Process to Set Up an LLC in Dubai
1. Choose Your Business Activity
Select the exact activity your company will perform. This determines your license type and any additional approvals needed.
2. Reserve Your Trade Name
Pick a professional and unique trade name that follows UAE naming guidelines.
3. Secure Office Space (Ejari)
Lease an office or flexi-desk in Dubai mainland. The tenancy contract must be registered under Ejari.
4. Obtain Initial Approval
Submit your basic documents to receive the initial “no objection” approval to proceed with registration.
5. Draft and Notarise the MOA
The Memorandum of Association outlines company structure, share distribution, and shareholder rights. It must be notarised.
6. Submit Final Documents and Pay Fees
Provide all required documents, tenancy contract, and MOA to receive your business license.
7. Apply for Visas and Corporate Bank Account
After license issuance, you can apply for investor visas, employee visas, and open a business bank account.
Documents Required
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- UAE entry stamp or visa copy
- Emirates ID (if applicable)
- Trade name reservation certificate
- Initial approval document
- Ejari tenancy contract
- Notarised Memorandum of Association
- Any external approvals based on activity
Cost and Timeline
Estimated cost: AED 18,000 to AED 30,000+
Timeline: 3–7 working days once all documents are ready
Actual costs vary depending on the number of visas, office location, and business activity.
Why Choose an LLC in Dubai?
- Flexible business structure
- Strong market reputation
- Ability to sponsor employees and family
- Full access to UAE mainland market
- Long-term stability and growth potential
An LLC remains the best business setup option for entrepreneurs planning to build a sustainable and scalable company in Dubai.
I
