Legalization in the UAE
Legalization in the UAE: How to get Emirates ID and open a company
Cost of services: from 1500 €
Legalization of business in the UAE is one of the most attractive options for entrepreneurs who want to optimize taxes and gain access to a fast-growing market. One of the first steps to opening a company is obtaining an Emirates ID, which is mandatory for all residents. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the process of obtaining an Emirates ID and all the key steps required to legalize and successfully open a company in the UAE.
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What is Emirates ID and how to get it?
Emirates ID is the primary identification document for UAE residents. It is used for all legal and financial transactions, such as opening a bank account, renting a property, and registering a company. To obtain an Emirates ID, you need to go through several steps:
- Medical examination: To obtain a residence visa, which is mandatory for Emirates ID, you must undergo a medical examination. This stage includes testing for infectious diseases and can be performed in accredited UAE clinics.
- Filing an application: After passing the medical examination, you must apply for an Emirates ID through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA). The application can be submitted online or at one of the ICA centres.
- Taking biometric data: To complete the process, you will need to undergo fingerprint scanning and photographing. This is a mandatory step for all applicants.
Once all stages are successfully completed, the Emirates ID will be ready within a few weeks. Obtaining this document is an important step to continue the legalization process.
Emirates ID is a key document for all legal transactions in the UAE, including opening companies and bank accounts.
Opening a Company in the UAE: Step by Step
Opening a company in the UAE requires several mandatory procedures. Depending on the type of business and the chosen zone (free zone or mainland zone), the requirements may vary. Here are the main steps to legalize a business:
- Selecting a company type: The first step is to determine the type of company you want to register. This can be a free zone company (with full foreign ownership) or a mainland company (in some cases a local partner is required).
- Obtaining a license: To operate in the UAE, you must obtain a business license. The license can be commercial, professional or industrial, depending on the activities of your company.
- Opening a bank account: Once you have your Emirates ID and business license, the next step is to open a corporate bank account to conduct financial transactions and accept payments.
- Company registration: After choosing the type of company, obtaining a license and opening an account, you can register the company with the relevant authorities and start its activities in the UAE.
Each of these stages requires careful execution and legal support. The UAE offers favorable conditions for foreign investors, but it is important to correctly prepare all the documents to avoid delays and legal complications.
Taxes and benefits for companies in the UAE
The UAE is known for its favorable tax conditions. In 2024, a corporate tax of 9% on income over AED 375 was introduced for mainland companies. However, for companies registered in free zones, there is a complete exemption from income tax, subject to certain conditions.
Companies in the UAE are also required to take into account the following:
- VAT: Tax The value added tax in the UAE is 5% and is mandatory for companies with a turnover of over AED 375 per year.VAT: Value Added Tax in the UAE is 5% and is mandatory for companies with a turnover of over AED 375 per year.
- Exemption from corporate tax: Companies registered in free zones can benefit from zero corporate tax, provided they engage in qualifying activities and meet the economic substance requirements.
- Program for small companies: Small businesses with revenues of up to Dh3 million can qualify for income tax exemption under the Small Business Relief programme, which runs until 2026.
Proper organization of business in the UAE allows you to make the most of tax benefits and reduce operating costs. Our experts will help you at all stages of registration and legalization of a company in the UAE.