Preparing the right paperwork for Dubai mainland is an essential step for a smooth registration process. Each document serves a specific purpose in meeting official requirements. This short information highlights the basic documents that are usually asked for during business setup in mainland, helping keep the process organised and on track.
Application form:
The official company registration application form must be completed with accurate information, including the proposed trade name, activity description, and shareholder details. Any discrepancies in this form may delay approval.
Trade name reservation certificate:
Before proceeding with the full licence application, a trade name reservation must be secured. This certificate confirms that the chosen name is registered with the authorities and is not duplicated.
Initial approval certificate:
The initial approval certificate is issued after the application form and trade name are reviewed. It grants preliminary clearance to proceed with further steps, such as office leasing and additional approvals.
Memorandum of association (MOA):
The memorandum of association outlines the ownership structure, share allocation, and business activities. It must be notarised and signed by all shareholders to be valid.
A physical office address is also mandatory for mainland companies. A tenancy contract registered with Ejari is necessary to link the business to a specific location in the government’s system.
Passport copies of shareholders and managers:
Valid passport copies of all shareholders and designated managers must be provided. These should be clear, with all personal details and photographs visible.
Emirates id copy and residency visa (for residents):
For shareholders or managers who are UAE residents, copies of their Emirates ID and residency visa must be included. For non-residents, only passport copies are necessary initially.
External approvals for specific activities:
Certain activities involve additional clearances from other government entities, such as health authorities, municipalities, or specialised departments. These approvals must be obtained before the trade licence is issued. For shareholders or managers already employed in the UAE, a no objection certificate from the current employer may be necessary. This confirms that they are permitted to engage in the new business activity.
Maintaining an organised record of these documents supports a faster and more efficient registration process, allowing the company to commence operations once the licence is granted.