Setting up a business in the UAE is not the same as setting one up in the UK. Company formation in the Emirates is a process that requires a great deal of patience and understanding, fortunately however, once the paperwork is complete, doing business is straightforward.
Depending on the type of business your company conducts, you may need to apply for more than one type of licence or approval. For example, the BCB’s first client Mary Gober International (MGI) as a professional training firm and requires a permit from the KHDA (Dubai’s education regulator) to operate. Had MGI founded its business without this it would have run the risk of penalty fines or, worse, closure.
Any firm looking at UAE market-entry is strongly encouraged to verify the particular regulatory requirements of their business at the outset and there is actually a book (and website) which precisely prescribes what can be undertaken with each licence activity and what additional approvals are required.
This information is priceless: you may be surprised to hear that you can actually get a licence to undertake ‘Cheeseballs Manufacturing’ in Dubai, but rather more importantly you can quickly establish the approvals needed for your business.
Education & training needs KHDA approval; Dubai Municipality regulates construction; you must register with the Ministry of Economy if you have a Representative Office. The BCB will make sure you are set up according to the book!
(The Book)