Company formation in Dubai — a legally sound entity from day one
Formation is more than a license. It is an ownership structure, a shareholders' agreement and obligations that begin after setup. Specialist lawyers build all of it correctly from the start.
What is the difference between a license and legal formation?
The license lets you carry out the activity. Legal formation decides who owns the company, how it is run, and what happens in a dispute, when a partner leaves or when shares are sold.
Many founders get the license quickly, then discover a year later that the contract doesn't protect them. That's why we start with the structure, then the license.
What we handle in company formation
Choosing the legal form
A limited liability company, a free zone company, a branch or a sole establishment, depending on your goal.
The articles of association
Drafted by a lawyer to set out shares, powers and signing authority.
The shareholders' agreement
Clear rules for profits, decisions and a partner's exit.
The license and approvals
Identifying the right authority and completing the required approvals.
Post-formation obligations
Tax registration, the ultimate beneficial owner register, and license renewal.
Protecting your investment
We review every document before you sign it, and explain it to you in simple language.
The formation steps with us
- 1
Free consultation
We understand your project, your partners and your goal in the market.
- 2
Choosing the structure and path
Mainland, free zone or offshore, with an explanation of the risks.
- 3
A written quote
Every item and fee before any commitment.
- 4
Contracts and license
We draft the contracts and follow the authority until the license is issued.
- 5
Residency and bank
The residency files, bank account and tax registration.
Common formation forms
| Form | Best for | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Limited liability company | A commercial or service activity with one or more partners | The partner's liability is limited to their share |
| Free zone company | International trade and services | Usually full ownership |
| Sole establishment | One owner and a simple professional activity | The owner is liable with their personal assets |
| Foreign company branch | An existing company that wants to expand | Tied to the parent company |
The form available varies by activity and authority. We confirm it for you before we start.
Talk to a lawyer before you sign anything.
Thirty minutes with a formation adviser — we understand your venture and map the right path and the real cost. No obligation.
Common questions, clear answers.
Is company formation the same as company setup?
Yes, they are used interchangeably. We use "formation" because it covers the structure, contracts and license together.
How long does formation take?
From a few days to a few weeks, depending on the path, the activity and the approvals. We give you a clear timeline in the written quote.
Do I need a shareholders' agreement?
If you have a partner, yes: it sets out profits, decisions and a partner's exit, and prevents most disputes later.
How much does it start from?
Formation starts from an indicative AED 9,000 for offshore, 12,500 for a free zone and 15,000 for mainland, and the final quote is in writing before any commitment.
Thirty minutes with a formation adviser. No obligation.
Your first consultation is free.
Tell us about your idea — we reply within working hours with a clear roadmap.
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