Abu Dhabi, as the capital of the United Arab Emirates, has become a hot commercial fertile ground in the eyes of global investors with its unique geographical location, steady economic growth and attractive business policies. Registering a company in this land of opportunity, choosing the right type of company and meeting the appropriate conditions is the key to success. Next, we will take an in-depth look at the types and conditions of incorporation in Abu Dhabi to guide your business journey.
limited Liability Company (LLC):
this is a common type of company and applies to most businesses. It may consist of one or more shareholders whose liability is limited to the amount of their contribution. This format is suitable for foreign investors, especially SMEs, who wish to do business in the UAE.
2. Free Zone Company:
abu Dhabi has a number of free trade zones, such as the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and the Musa Fah (Musaffah) Industrial Zone. Companies registered in the free zone can enjoy certain tax and operating benefits, usually allowing 100 percent foreign ownership, without the need for local partners, suitable for enterprises focused on import and export, science and technology or innovation industries.
3. Company limited by shares:
it is suitable for large enterprises, which can issue shares publicly and absorb public investment. The capital of the company is divided into equal shares and the liability of shareholders is limited to the amount of their capital contribution.
4. Branch:
A foreign company may establish a branch in Abu Dhabi as a branch of its parent company to engage in specific business activities. The operation of the branch is under the jurisdiction of the parent company, and the foreign investor can have 100 per cent ownership of the branch.
5. Sole proprietorships, general partnerships and limited partnerships:
these forms are suitable for individuals or small business entities and usually require cooperation with a local partner.
6. Subsidiary:
A subsidiary is an independent legal entity, a foreign company may set up a subsidiary in Abu Dhabi, and a private or public limited liability company is a common type of subsidiary.
1. Company Name:
the name must be legal, unique, and unoccupied, and must not contain the name or logo of a religion, government agency, or outside agency.
The name must not violate public order or public morals and must not be duplicated with a registered company name.
The company name must be approved by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED) and registered as a trademark with the Ministry of Economy.
2. Registered capital:
registered capital requirements vary by company type, and the amount is determined based on the company type and business needs.
3. Shareholders and Directors:
A limited liability company must have at least one shareholder and one director, with no nationality or residence requirements.
Natural person shareholders are required to provide passport scans and proof of address, and company shareholders are required to provide articles of association and business license.
For some types of companies (such as limited liability companies), it may be necessary to have a certain percentage of local shareholders.
4. Articles of Association:
articles of association need to be formulated to clarify the company's organizational structure, management methods, business scope, shareholders' rights and interests.
5. Registered Address:
all companies must have a physical office address in Abu Dhabi, which can be an office, a business center or an office in a free trade zone.
The lease agreement is required to meet the requirements of the local Economic Development Department and the Municipal Planning Department and is submitted to the relevant authorities for approval.
6. Other information:
depending on the type of company and the nature of the business, additional information may be required, such as industry licenses, joint venture agreements or local service agency agreements.
Copies of passports of shareholders and directors, proof of residential address, business plans, etc. are also common registration materials.
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Zhuoxin Consulting relies on its Chinese service network and Dubai executive team to provide professional one-stop business services without communication barriers for Chinese companies to enter the Middle East market. Its business covers company establishment and maintenance, accounting and taxation, bank account opening, PRO services and business services.
Zhuoxin Consulting has high-quality business resources and maintains close cooperation with many free zones, bankers and tax departments in the UAE to escort your expansion in the Middle East market.