Dubai has become a top choice for Indian entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses internationally. With over 30% of Dubai’s startup community made up of Indian companies and 15,000+ new Indian businesses joining the Dubai Chamber of Commerce in 2023, it’s clear that Indian business owners see great potential in the city.
Trade between India and the UAE is also booming, bilateral trade crossed $85 billion in 2022, and both countries are aiming to increase non-oil trade to $100 billion by 2030. This strong economic relationship makes it even easier for Indian entrepreneurs to set up businesses in Dubai.
So, why is Dubai such a popular business destination for Indian entrepreneurs? The answer is simple—zero personal income tax, 100% foreign ownership in Free Zones, and a strategic location that connects Asia, Europe, and Africa.
However, setting up a company in Dubai from India involves several steps, including choosing the right business structure, getting the necessary approvals, and submitting documents. Therefore, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to register a company in Dubai from India.
Why Start a Company in Dubai from India?
Here are some key reasons why to start a company in Dubai from India:
1. Strong India-UAE Trade Relations
The UAE is one of India’s largest trading partners. India and the UAE aim to increase non-oil trade to $100 billion by 2030, creating more business opportunities. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the UAE reduces trade barriers, making it easier to do business.
2. 100% Foreign Ownership & Business-Friendly Policies
Indian entrepreneurs can own 100% of their businesses in Dubai Free Zones. The UAE has zero personal income tax and low corporate tax (9% for businesses exceeding AED 375,000 annual profits). A simple and fast business registration process with minimal paperwork.
3. Access to a Large Expat & Consumer Market
Over 4.5 million Indians live in the UAE, creating a ready customer base for Indian businesses. Dubai’s diverse population, with residents from over 200 nationalities, provides opportunities for businesses to serve international customers.
4. No Currency Restrictions & Easy Repatriation of Profits
The UAE has no currency exchange controls, making it easier to transfer profits back to India. Indian entrepreneurs can freely repatriate 100% of their capital and profits without restrictions.
5. Strong Legal & Intellectual Property Protection
Dubai offers strict intellectual property (IP) laws, ensuring businesses' trademarks, patents, and copyrights are protected. The UAE's transparent and well-regulated business environment reduces risks related to fraud and disputes.
6. Ideal Place for Scaling & Expanding Your Business
Once established, your business can expand operations to other Middle Eastern, European, and African markets. The city’s strong digital infrastructure and e-commerce boom help businesses grow online without geographical limitations.
How to Register a Company in Dubai from India? Step-by-step
Setting up a business in Dubai from India is a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning and adherence to legal requirements.
Here's the simple step-by-step company registration process in Duba from India:
1. Define Your Business Activity
The first and most important step is to define your business activity based on your industry and business goals. Dubai allows over 2,000+ business activities, which are broadly categorized into:
- Commercial Activities (Import/export, general trading, and retail businesses)
- Professional Activities (IT services, marketing, consulting, education, etc)
- Industrial Activities (Manufacturing, logistics, and production-based businesses)
- Tourism Activities (Travel agencies, tour operators, and hotel businesses)
2. Select Your Business Structure
Dubai offers different types of business structures, and your choice will impact ownership, liability, and operational flexibility.A. Mainland Company (For businesses that want to operate anywhere in Dubai & UAE)
A Mainland company is licensed by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) and allows businesses to operate anywhere in the UAE and beyond. If you plan to serve clients within the UAE and need unlimited visa quotas, Mainland is the best choice.
Mainland Business Structures:- LLC (Limited Liability Company)
- Most common structure for trading & service businesses.
- Requires a minimum of 2 shareholders and a maximum of 50.
- Liability limited to each shareholder’s contribution.
- Can engage in commercial, industrial, and professional activities.
- Sole Proprietorship
- Owned by a single individual.
- Best for consultants, professionals, and freelancers.
- Full personal liability for business debts.
- Branch of a Foreign Company
- A foreign company can set up a 100% owned branch in Dubai Mainland.
- The branch can conduct activities identical to the parent company.
- Requires a Local Service Agent (LSA) but does not own any shares.
- Civil Company
- Suitable for lawyers, doctors, accountants, and professionals.
- 100% owned by professionals but may require a local service agent (LSA) for administrative purposes.
- Liability is not limited (owners are personally liable).
B. Free Zone Company (For 100% foreign ownership & tax benefits)
A Free Zone company operates within designated zones regulated by specific Free Zone authorities. Free Zones are ideal for import/export businesses, e-commerce, consulting, and tech startups.
Free Zone Business Structures:- FZE (Free Zone Establishment)
- Single shareholder company.
- Ideal for sole entrepreneurs & freelancers.
- LLC-Free Zone
- A Limited Liability Company operating in a Free Zone.
- Provides 100% ownership with liability protection.
- FZCO (Free Zone Company)
- Multiple shareholders allowed (2 or more).
- Suitable for partnerships and growing startups.
C. Offshore Company (For international business & asset protection)
An Offshore company is designed for businesses operating outside the UAE, offering tax benefits and confidentiality. They cannot conduct business inside the UAE. Offshore companies are ideal for investors, holding companies, and businesses engaged in international trade.
3. Register Your Business Name
Choose a unique company name that follows UAE’s naming regulations (no offensive words, no religious/political references). Get it approved by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant Free Zone authority.
Naming Guidelines:- No offensive or religious words.
- Must not resemble existing brands.
- No abbreviations if naming after a person (e.g., "Rajesh Trading LLC" instead of "R.T LLC").
- Must end with the correct legal entity (e.g., LLC, FZE, FZCO).
4. Identify Your Business Location
Your business location depends on your chosen jurisdiction (Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore). Options for Business Location:- Mainland: Requires a physical office or workspace.
- Free Zone: Offers flexi-desks, shared offices, or private offices.
- Offshore: No physical office is required.
5. Apply for a Business License
Once you finalize your business activity and location, apply for the necessary business license from the relevant authority. Processing time varies, but some Free Zones issue licenses within 24-48 hours.
Types of Business Licenses in Dubai:- Commercial License: For trading, general trading, and retail businesses.
- Professional License: For service-based businesses like IT, consulting, etc.
- Industrial License: For manufacturing and production businesses.
- Tourism License: For travel agencies, hotels, and tour operators.
6. Visa Arrangements for Investors and Employees
Once your company is registered, the next crucial step is obtaining visas for yourself, your employees, and potential dependents. Dubai offers investor visas, employee visas, and dependent visas, each with specific eligibility requirements.
This process involves several steps, including sponsorship applications, document submissions, and potentially undergoing medical examinations and background checks.
7. Emirates ID Acquisition
An Emirates ID is a mandatory identification card for all UAE residents. Once you receive your residence visa, apply for your Emirates ID through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP).
Requirements:- Passport copy
- Residence visa copy
- Business license copy
- Biometric fingerprint scan
8. Open a UAE Bank Account
To manage financial transactions, you need a corporate bank account in the UAE.
Popular Banks in Dubai for Business Accounts:- Emirates NBD
- Mashreq Bank
- First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)
- Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB)
9. Set Up an Accounting and Bookkeeping System
To comply with UAE’s VAT and Corporate Tax laws, businesses must maintain proper financial records.
Key Accounting & Tax Compliance Requirements:- VAT Registration (if annual turnover exceeds AED 375,000).
- Corporate Tax Compliance (for businesses earning over AED 375,000 per year).
- Financial Audits (mandatory for Free Zone and large businesses).
Partnering with a business setup expert like Shuraa Business Setup can further simplify the process, ensuring quick approvals and hassle-free registration.
Documents Required to Open a Company in Dubai from India
To open a company in Dubai from India, you generally require these essential documents while applying for a trade license from DED:- Photographs (passport size) of the company registration applicant
- Application form
- Visa Copies, if already in the UAE
- Passport copies of all the legal participants for verification
- A copy of the LSA’s Emirates ID, if applicable
- Proposed company name(s)
- MoA and LSA documents (notarized and attested)
- Tourist visa of the company registration applicant
- Ejari number for the verification of the rental space agreement / Business Centre sustainability contract
- External approvals (if applicable)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the sponsor (if applicable)
- Bank reference letter
What is the Cost of Registering a Company in Dubai from India?
Indian entrepreneurs can register a company in Dubai from India for as low as AED 12,500 to AED 30,000 for a license (₹2.85 lakh to ₹6.85 lakh approx.), depending on the business structure, activity, and location. Additional costs may include visa charges, notarization, government approvals, and bank account setup.
For cost-effective business registration, Dubai Free Zones offers affordable solutions with tax benefits and full ownership. To simplify the process and reduce costs, working with a business setup consultant like Shuraa Business Setup ensures a smooth and hassle-free registration.
Start Your Dubai Business with Shuraa India
Starting a business in Dubai from India comes with great benefits like full ownership, tax savings, and access to a global market. The process is straightforward, but handling paperwork, approvals, and legal requirements can be tricky without the right support.
That’s where Shuraa Business Setup comes in! With 25+ years of experience, we make company registration in Dubai simple and stress-free. From business licensing and documentation to PRO services, office space, bank account opening, and visa processing, we handle it all so you can focus on growing your business.
Ready to get started? Contact Shuraa India today for expert guidance and a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register a company in Dubai from India without visiting the UAE?
Yes, you can complete the registration process remotely with the help of a business setup consultant like Shuraa Business Setup. However, a visit may be required for some administrative purpose.
What types of businesses can I start in Dubai as an Indian entrepreneur?
You can start a wide range of businesses in Dubai, including trade, e-commerce, professional services, tech startups, and more. The type of license will depend on your business activity.
Can I own 100% of my company in Dubai?
Yes, 100% foreign ownership is allowed in the Free Zone and for many mainland business activities under new regulations.
How long does it take to register a company in Dubai from India?
The process usually takes 5 to 10 days, depending on the business activity and approvals required.
Do I need to pay corporate tax in Dubai?
Corporate tax applies only if your business earns more than AED 375,000 per year, with a 9% tax rate. Many Free Zones offer tax exemptions.
How much does it cost to register a company in Dubai from India?
The cost starts from AED 12,500 to AED 30,000 (₹2.85 lakh to ₹6.85 lakh), depending on the business type and location.
