Dubai is emerging as an increasingly accessible jurisdiction for UK business registration, attracting not just large firms but a diverse range of entrepreneurs, including solo consultants, innovative startups, and growing SMEs. The process is more straightforward than many people expect. You don’t need to be a UAE resident, and in many cases, you don’t even need to visit the country.
Dubai offers 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, zero personal income tax, and fast-track license options that allow you to start trading in days.
Over 5,000 UK companies have already set up in the UAE. Many chose Dubai for its links to markets in the Gulf, Africa and Asia, as well as the straightforward licensing process and international reach.
This article explains how to register a company in Dubai from the UK. It covers the key steps, your licensing and structure options, and the legal and practical details UK residents need to know.
How to register a company in Dubai from the UK
The process for setting up a Dubai company from the UK is a well-trodden path. With the right guidance, most of it can be done remotely. Here’s how it works.
1. Choose your business activity
Start by deciding what your company will do. Every licensed activity must be listed. These details will affect which license you apply for and where you can set up.
2. Select a jurisdiction
You can register in one of three jurisdictions – mainland, free zone or offshore. Free zones appeal to many UK founders thanks to sector-based hubs and simpler setup. Mainland companies give you access to the local UAE market, though the process may involve extra steps or local involvement. Offshore structures are used for international operations without a local footprint.
3. Pick a legal structure
Your legal structure depends on whether you’re registering as an individual or a company, and how many shareholders are involved. For small businesses, the usual routes are Free Zone Establishment (FZE), Free Zone Company (FZC), or mainland LLC.
4. Reserve your company name
Choose a few business names and have them reviewed for availability and compliance. Avoid religious references or existing trademarks. Most names also need to be translated into Arabic for approval.
5. Submit your application
You’ll need to submit passport copies, proof of address and application forms. Some setups also require a basic business plan. If you’re opening a branch of your UK company, prepare corporate papers and a board resolution.
6. Appoint a manager or director
If you’re not applying for a UAE visa, appoint a local representative under a Power of Attorney. This person will sign on your behalf and meet any in-country requirements.
7. Get initial approvals
For some activities, you may need clearances from other authorities. Certain sectors, like healthcare, education or finance, may require approvals from specialist authorities before you can move forward.
8. Pay the setup fees
Once approved, you’ll receive a payment notice. After paying the fees, your trade license will be issued. Some jurisdictions offer bundled packages that include the license, business address and visas.
9. Open a corporate bank account
After your company is set up, you can apply for a UAE business account. Some banks will ask you to visit, while others may complete the process remotely if your documents are in order and you have a local point of contact.
10. Apply for visas (if needed)
Once your company is registered, you can usually apply for UAE residency visas for yourself, your family or employees. This depends on the license type and the number of visa quotas allocated to your business.
Some licenses, such as standard Free Zone or Mainland licenses, allow self-sponsorship and include one or more visa allocations by default. Others – like the E-Trader license issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) – do not permit self-sponsorship and are only available to existing Dubai residents. Certain freelance permits or low-cost flexi-desk packages may also exclude visa quotas entirely.
If your setup includes a visa, you’ll be able to open a personal bank account, sponsor dependents, and access services locally. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to upgrade your license, apply separately for a visa under another category, or appoint a manager with their own visa to act on your behalf.
Types of business licenses in Dubai
There are several types of business licenses in Dubai, and the one you need depends entirely on your company’s activities. Each license category is linked to specific activities and comes with its own rules, restrictions and setup costs.
Commercial license
This is for companies involved in buying and selling goods. That includes anything from retail stores and trading businesses to general trading, logistics or wholesale. If you’re importing or exporting goods, you’ll fall under this category.
Professional license
This covers service-based businesses such as consultancies, legal firms, IT service providers, training companies and technical experts. A professional license allows 100% foreign ownership in mainland Dubai when paired with a local service agent, since it’s issued based on the individual’s skills or qualifications.
Industrial license
This applies to manufacturing or industrial activities. You’ll need this if your company plans to produce or assemble products, process raw materials or engage in factory work. Approvals from external bodies like the Ministry of Industry may also be required.
Tourism license
Required for travel agencies, tour operators, hospitality companies and businesses offering tourism-related services. This license is regulated by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and may involve meeting specific insurance and staffing requirements.
E-commerce or portal license
This license is designed for online sellers and digital platforms. It allows businesses to trade goods or services over the internet. These licenses often come with fewer overheads and are popular among startups, although some types, like the e-Trader license, don’t permit residency visa applications.
Freelance permit
Freelancers working independently in media, technology or education can apply for this permit. It allows a single individual to operate legally under their own name. It’s especially common in free zones and doesn’t require a physical office space.
Offshore license
Used by companies that want a UAE legal entity for international operations but don’t need a physical presence in Dubai. Offshore companies can’t trade within the UAE or open a local office but can hold assets, open international bank accounts and own shares in other companies.
Each license must be tied to a legal structure, activity list and business location. Some also require further approvals from specialist departments. Choosing the right one at the outset will help avoid delays or compliance issues later.
Documents required to register a company in Dubai from the UK
You’ll need to submit a standard set of documents to register a company in Dubai. Requirements vary slightly depending on the business activity, structure and jurisdiction, but most setups will involve the following:
Passport copies: Clear, colour scans of the passports of all shareholders and directors.
Proof of address: A recent utility bill or bank statement showing the full residential address of each shareholder.
Passport photos: Digital, passport-sized photos of shareholders and authorised managers, meeting UAE format requirements.
Business activity details: A short description of what your company will do. Some activities may require a formal business plan.
Proposed trade name: You’ll need to submit a list of possible names. These must follow UAE naming rules and be approved before registration.
Initial approval certificate: Issued once your application has been reviewed and the activity approved. Needed before continuing with the setup.
Company documents (for branches or corporate shareholders): Includes the UK company’s Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum and Articles of Association, and a board resolution approving the Dubai setup.
Power of Attorney (if appointing a local representative): If you won’t be present to sign in person, you’ll need to authorise a representative through a notarised and attested Power of Attorney.
UBO declaration: A statement identifying the individual who ultimately owns or controls the company, required for compliance.
Having these ready in the correct format helps avoid delays. A formation advisor can guide you through the exact documentation needed for your setup.
Register your company in Dubai from the UK with Creative Zone
Setting up a business in another country can be complex. Creative Zone simplifies the process. Whether you’re registering remotely or relocating from the UK, our team can handle the setup from start to finish.
Creative Zone is one of the UAE’s longest-established business setup firms, trusted by over 50,000 entrepreneurs. We offer step-by-step support with everything from trade license applications and visa processing to bank account opening and office solutions. We also advise on the best structure based on your business activity and future plans.
If you’re ready to start or expand your company, pursuing business setup in Dubai with Creative Zone gives you access to expert advice and ongoing support. Get in touch today, and one of our consultants will guide you through the options.
