Business Registration in Dubai: The Ultimate Navigational Guide for Entrepreneurs
Dreaming of establishing your business in one of the world’s most dynamic commercial hubs? Dubai’s gleaming skyscrapers aren’t just architectural marvels—they represent a thriving ecosystem where businesses flourish with strategic advantages unavailable elsewhere. But navigating the registration process can feel overwhelming without the right guidance.
Let’s cut through the complexity and map out your journey to successful business registration in Dubai—where opportunity meets strategic advantage.
Why Choose Dubai for Your Business Venture?
Before diving into the registration process, it’s worth understanding why Dubai continues to attract entrepreneurs and corporations from around the globe. The city has strategically positioned itself as a business paradise, offering advantages that few jurisdictions can match:
- Zero corporate and personal income tax (with the introduction of 9% corporate tax for mainland companies from June 2023 for profits exceeding AED 375,000)
- 100% foreign ownership across most business activities
- Strategic geographic location connecting East and West markets
- Political stability in a region often characterized by uncertainty
- World-class infrastructure and connectivity
- Currency stability with the AED pegged to the US dollar
- Diverse economy reducing dependence on oil revenues
As Sarah Lindquist, Director of International Business Development at Boston Consulting Group, notes: “Dubai has successfully created an ecosystem where regulatory efficiency meets business-friendly policies. For international companies seeking a foothold in emerging markets, it offers unparalleled advantages that have transformed it from a regional hub to a global business nexus.”
Understanding the Three Key Jurisdictions in Dubai
One of the first strategic decisions you’ll make when registering a business in Dubai is selecting the right jurisdiction. Each offers distinct advantages and limitations that directly impact your operations:
Feature | Mainland | Free Zone | Offshore |
---|---|---|---|
Local Market Access | Full access to UAE market | Limited; requires service agent | No local trading permitted |
Foreign Ownership | 100% allowed (post-2021 reforms) | 100% allowed | 100% allowed |
Tax Benefits | 9% corporate tax (on profits >AED 375,000) | Tax exemptions for 50+ years | Zero tax |
Visa Allocation | Based on office space/investment | Limited package-based allocation | Limited or none |
Best For | Local market operations | Regional headquarters, specific industries | Asset holding, international trading |
Mainland Companies: Freedom to Trade Anywhere
Mainland companies (sometimes called “onshore”) operate under licenses issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED). The standout advantage? Unrestricted trading throughout the UAE and internationally.
For Ahmad Rashid, who established a construction materials trading company in Dubai’s mainland in 2019, this flexibility proved crucial: “We initially considered a free zone setup for cost savings, but our business model required direct access to government tenders and projects across all emirates. The mainland license, while requiring more initial investment, has allowed us to secure contracts worth over AED 15 million in just our second year.”
Free Zone Companies: Industry-Specific Advantages
Dubai hosts over 30 specialized free zones, each catering to specific industries with tailored benefits. From Dubai Media City for creative businesses to Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) for commodity traders, these zones offer 100% foreign ownership, zero import-export duties, and simplified procedures.
The catch? Free zone companies face limitations when trading directly in the UAE mainland market, often requiring a local distributor or service agent.
Offshore Companies: Asset Protection and Privacy
Offshore companies provide a vehicle for international trade, asset protection, and investments without physical presence in the UAE. Popular offshore jurisdictions include Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) Offshore and RAKICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre).
While offering significant privacy benefits and zero taxation, offshore companies cannot conduct business within the UAE or maintain physical offices.
The 7 Essential Steps to Register a Company in Dubai
Regardless of your chosen jurisdiction, business registration in Dubai follows a structured process. Let’s break it down into manageable steps:
Step 1: Choose Your License Type
Your business activities determine which license you’ll need:
- Commercial License: For trading activities, retail, and general commerce
- Professional License: For service providers, consultants, and professionals
- Industrial License: For manufacturing and production activities
- Tourism License: For travel agencies, hotels, and tourism-related businesses
Pro tip: Many entrepreneurs don’t realize that adding activities later can trigger a reassessment of your entire license structure. It’s often more cost-effective to include anticipated future activities during initial registration.
Step 2: Select Your Business Activities
Dubai’s economic departments maintain a comprehensive list of over 2,000 business activities. Your license will specify exactly which activities your business is authorized to conduct. Choosing incorrectly can lead to operational restrictions or compliance issues.
For mainland companies, activities are classified according to the International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC). Free zones often have their own classification systems tailored to their focus industries.
Step 3: Choose Your Legal Structure
The most common legal structures for Dubai businesses include:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): The most popular structure for mainland companies
- Free Zone Company (FZC/FZCO): Entity specific to free zones
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): Single-shareholder entity in free zones
- Branch Office: Extension of an existing company without separate legal identity
- Representative Office: Limited to marketing activities for the parent company
Step 4: Register Your Trade Name
Your company name must comply with UAE naming conventions:
- Names cannot be offensive or blasphemous
- If using a personal name, it must be a full name (e.g., “Mohammed Al Mansoori Engineering” not just “Mohammed Engineering”)
- Names must reflect the company’s activities
- Restricted words require additional approvals (e.g., “Gulf,” “Global,” “Bank”)
Once approved, your trade name is reserved for 6 months while you complete the registration process.
Step 5: Select Your Office Location
Every Dubai business requires a physical address, though virtual office options exist in some jurisdictions. Your options include:
- Commercial office space in business districts or mixed-use buildings
- Free zone offices within your chosen free zone
- Business centres offering flexible workspace solutions
- Virtual offices (limited availability, primarily in certain free zones)
Location costs vary dramatically—from approximately AED 15,000 annually for virtual offices to AED 100,000+ for prime physical locations. Budget accordingly!
Step 6: Obtain Your Trade License
With your business activity, legal structure, name, and location secured, you’ll submit your application along with required documents:
- Completed application forms
- Shareholders’ passport copies and Emirates ID (for residents)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current UAE sponsor (for residents)
- Business plan (required by some free zones)
- Bank reference letters (for certain high-value businesses)
- Lease agreement for your business premises
Processing times vary: 3-5 working days for free zones, 7-14 days for mainland licenses.
Step 7: Complete Post-License Requirements
Your journey doesn’t end with license issuance. Additional steps include:
- Opening a corporate bank account
- Applying for relevant visas (investor, employee, dependent visas)
- Obtaining necessary industry-specific approvals
- Registering for VAT (mandatory for businesses with turnover exceeding AED 375,000)
- Setting up mandatory WPS (Wage Protection System) for employee salary payments
Different Types of Business Licenses
Understanding license types in detail helps ensure you select the appropriate option for your business activities:
Commercial License
The most common license type, covering import, export, and trading activities. Suitable for retailers, distributors, and general merchants. This license allows you to trade in specific products listed on your license.
A commercial license works well for businesses like:
- Retail stores
- Import/export companies
- Electronic goods traders
- Clothing and fashion retailers
- Food and grocery distributors
Industrial License
For manufacturing, assembly, and production activities. This license typically requires larger space and may need additional approvals from environmental authorities depending on the nature of production.
Industrial licenses are necessary for:
- Food processing facilities
- Furniture manufacturers
- Automotive parts production
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Construction materials production
Professional License
Covering service-based businesses and professional practices. This license is ideal for consultants, service providers, and professional practitioners.
Professional licenses suit:
- Management consulting firms
- IT services companies
- Legal practices
- Accounting and auditing firms
- Marketing and advertising agencies
- Engineering consultancies
- Medical clinics and healthcare services
- Educational and training institutes
Tourism License
Specifically for businesses operating in the tourism and hospitality sector. This license is regulated by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and requires compliance with specific tourism industry standards.
Tourism licenses are required for:
- Travel agencies and tour operators
- Hotels and hospitality establishments
- Event management companies
- Tourist transportation services
- Adventure tourism operators
Cost of Company Registration in Dubai
Understanding the complete cost structure is essential for realistic budgeting. Here’s a visualization of approximate costs across different jurisdictions:
Average Initial Setup Costs (in AED)
Mainland
AED 30,000-50,000
Premium FZ
AED 25,000-40,000
Standard FZ
AED 15,000-25,000
Offshore
AED 12,000-18,000
*Excludes office rent, visa costs, and banking fees. Prices may vary based on specific requirements.
Annual Recurring Costs
Beyond initial setup, you’ll need to budget for ongoing operational expenses:
Cost Category | Mainland | Free Zone | Offshore |
---|---|---|---|
License Renewal | AED 15,000-25,000 | AED 12,000-20,000 | AED 8,000-12,000 |
Office Rent (Annual) | AED 25,000-150,000+ | AED 18,000-80,000+ | N/A (Virtual) |
Visa Renewals (per person) | AED 3,500-5,000 | AED 3,000-4,500 | Limited availability |
Accounting & Compliance | AED 8,000-15,000 | AED 6,000-12,000 | AED 4,000-8,000 |
Remember that these initial costs represent just the beginning. Annual renewal fees typically range from 60-80% of the initial setup costs. Additional expenses include:
- Office rent: AED 15,000-200,000+ annually
- Visa costs: AED 3,000-5,000 per person
- Bank account setup: Often free, but minimum balance requirements apply (AED 25,000-50,000)
- Industry-specific approvals: Varying costs for sectors like food, healthcare, education
Banking in Dubai: Opening Your Corporate Account
One of the most critical—and often challenging—aspects of Dubai business setup is opening a corporate bank account. UAE banks have implemented stringent due diligence procedures, making this process more complex than many entrepreneurs anticipate.
Required Documentation for Bank Account Opening
- Company documents: Trade license, Memorandum of Association, Certificate of Incorporation
- Personal documents: Passport copies, Emirates ID, visa copies for all signatories
- Business proof: Lease agreement, utility bills, business plan
- Financial references: Bank statements from home country, salary certificates
- Source of funds documentation: Proof of initial capital source
Major Banks for Business Accounts
Bank | Minimum Balance | Processing Time | Strengths |
---|---|---|---|
Emirates NBD | AED 25,000-50,000 | 2-4 weeks | Largest UAE bank, comprehensive services |
ADCB | AED 30,000-100,000 | 3-6 weeks | Strong international network |
FAB | AED 25,000-75,000 | 2-5 weeks | Largest bank in MENA region |
HSBC | AED 100,000+ | 4-8 weeks | Global reach, premium services |
Mashreq Bank | AED 25,000-50,000 | 2-4 weeks | SME-focused, faster processing |
Visa Types and Residency Options
Dubai offers various visa categories depending on your business structure and personal circumstances:
Investor Visa
Available to business owners and partners with significant investment in UAE companies. This visa typically provides 2-3 years of residency with the possibility of renewal.
Requirements:
- Ownership stake in a UAE company
- Minimum investment varies by emirate and business type
- Clean criminal record
- Health insurance coverage
Employee Visa
For individuals employed by UAE companies, including your own business. The visa duration typically matches the employment contract term (usually 2-3 years).
Golden Visa
A long-term residency program (5-10 years) for investors, entrepreneurs, and specialists in priority sectors.
Categories include:
- Investors with real estate worth AED 2 million+
- Entrepreneurs with innovative projects
- Specialized talents in priority sectors
- Outstanding students and graduates
Popular Free Zones for Business Setup
Each Dubai free zone caters to specific industries and offers unique advantages:
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
The world’s flagship free zone for commodities trade, precious metals, and diamonds. Located in Jumeirah Lakes Towers with premium office facilities.
Best for: Trading companies, precious metals dealers, commodity businesses
Key benefits: Zero taxes, 100% repatriation, prime location
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
The region’s leading financial hub with its own legal system and regulatory framework.
Best for: Financial services, fintech, asset management
Key benefits: Common law jurisdiction, financial services licensing
Dubai Internet City (DIC)
The Middle East’s largest ICT hub, home to major technology companies.
Best for: IT companies, software development, digital agencies
Key benefits: Tech ecosystem, networking opportunities
Dubai Media City (DMC)
Regional hub for media, marketing, and creative industries.
Best for: Media companies, advertising agencies, production houses
Key benefits: Creative community, modern facilities
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
One of the world’s largest free zones, ideal for manufacturing and logistics.
Best for: Manufacturing, logistics, heavy industries
Key benefits: Large industrial spaces, port connectivity
Tax Implications and Compliance
Understanding the UAE’s evolving tax landscape is crucial for business planning:
Corporate Income Tax
Introduced in June 2023, UAE corporate tax applies to:
- Mainland companies on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (9% rate)
- Most free zone companies remain exempt (0% rate)
- Large multinational enterprises may face additional requirements
Value Added Tax (VAT)
VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services, with mandatory registration for businesses with annual turnover exceeding AED 375,000.
VAT considerations:
- Monthly or quarterly filing requirements
- Digital record-keeping obligations
- Input tax recovery on business expenses
- Export zero-rating opportunities
Excise Tax
Applied to specific products including tobacco, carbonated drinks, and energy drinks at rates between 50-100%.
Real-World Case Study: Tech Startup Registration Journey
When UK-based software developer Marcus Chen decided to expand his fintech solution to the Middle East market in 2022, he faced the classic dilemma: mainland or free zone?
“Initially, Dubai Internet City seemed the obvious choice given our tech focus,” Marcus explains. “But after analyzing our client base—primarily banks and financial institutions—we realized that direct mainland access was critical for our business model.”
Marcus opted for a mainland professional license, which presented unexpected challenges:
- His business activities required approval from both the Department of Economic Development and the UAE Central Bank, extending the timeline by three weeks
- The need for a larger physical office than anticipated (minimum 200 sq ft) increased the budget by AED 30,000
- Opening a corporate bank account took nearly eight weeks due to enhanced due diligence for fintech companies
The total setup process took 12 weeks and cost approximately AED 65,000, excluding office rent.
“The investment has paid off tremendously,” Marcus notes. “Within our first year, we secured contracts with three major UAE banks that would have been practically impossible to access as a free zone company. My advice: plan for longer timelines and higher costs than you initially expect, but don’t let that deter you from the enormous opportunity Dubai presents.”
Success Stories: Real-World Examples
Case Study 1: E-commerce Expansion
When German entrepreneur Lisa Weber decided to expand her successful European e-commerce platform to the Middle East market in 2023, she faced the choice between mainland and free zone setup.
“Initially, Dubai CommerCity free zone seemed perfect for our e-commerce focus,” Lisa explains. “However, after detailed analysis, we realized our business model required direct B2B sales to UAE retailers, which would be restricted under free zone regulations.”
Lisa chose a mainland commercial license, which allowed:
- Direct sales to UAE customers without restrictions
- Partnerships with local logistics providers
- Participation in government e-commerce initiatives
“The total setup took 8 weeks and cost AED 48,000 including office setup. Within our first year, we achieved AED 2.8 million in revenue, with 65% from direct UAE sales that wouldn’t have been possible with a free zone structure.”
Case Study 2: Fintech Innovation
Singapore-based fintech startup BlockPay chose DIFC for their Middle East expansion, attracted by the specialized financial services framework and common law jurisdiction.
Founder David Chen notes: “DIFC’s regulatory sandbox allowed us to test our blockchain payment solution with local banks before full market launch. The setup cost was higher—AED 85,000 including regulatory fees—but the specialized ecosystem proved invaluable.”
Key success factors included:
- Access to DIFC’s fintech accelerator program
- Direct relationships with regional banks
- Regulatory clarity for innovative financial products
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Even with careful planning, entrepreneurs often encounter specific obstacles during Dubai business registration:
Challenge 1: Activity Classification Confusion
With over 2,000 business activities, selecting the correct classifications can be bewildering. Incorrect selections can limit your operational scope or trigger requirements for additional approvals.
Solution: Rather than guessing, consult with a license specialist who can translate your business model into appropriate activity codes. Consider both current and near-future activities to avoid amendment costs later.
Challenge 2: Banking Bottlenecks
Many entrepreneurs underestimate the difficulty of opening corporate bank accounts in the UAE, where enhanced due diligence procedures can extend the process to 2-3 months.
Solution: Begin the banking conversation early, prepare comprehensive documentation of company ownership and business activities, and consider working with a business setup consultant with established banking relationships.
Challenge 3: Visa Processing Complexities
The rules governing residency visas constantly evolve, with recent changes affecting qualification criteria and quota allocations.
Solution: Verify your visa eligibility and quota during the planning phase, particularly if relocating family members. Ensure your medical insurance meets visa requirements, and budget for security deposits where applicable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learning from others’ experiences can save significant time and money:
Underestimating Banking Requirements
Many entrepreneurs focus on company registration while overlooking banking complexities. Start banking conversations early and prepare comprehensive documentation.
Incorrect Activity Selection
Choosing inappropriate business activities can limit operations or trigger unexpected regulatory requirements. Work with specialists to ensure comprehensive activity coverage.
Inadequate Budget Planning
Focus only on setup costs without considering first-year operational expenses including renewals, compliance, and unexpected fees.
Ignoring Compliance Requirements
UAE authorities have strict compliance expectations. Failing to meet filing deadlines or maintain proper records can result in penalties or license suspension.
Future Outlook: Dubai’s Business Environment
Dubai continues evolving its business ecosystem with several key developments:
Digital Transformation Initiatives
The Dubai government is implementing comprehensive digitization of business services, including:
- Fully digital company registration processes
- Blockchain-based document verification
- AI-powered business support services
- Integrated government service platforms
Sustainability Focus
With Dubai’s Net Zero 2050 commitment, new opportunities are emerging in:
- Clean energy technologies
- Sustainable logistics and transportation
- Green building and construction
- Circular economy initiatives
Innovation Ecosystem
Dubai is investing heavily in becoming a global innovation hub through:
- Expanded R&D incentives
- University-industry collaboration programs
- Startup incubators and accelerators
- Innovation districts and clusters
Your Strategic Roadmap to Dubai Business Success
Having guided you through the essentials of Dubai business registration, let’s synthesize what truly matters for entrepreneurial success in this dynamic market:
- Begin with strategic alignment – Match your jurisdiction and license type to your actual business model, not just cost considerations
- Budget realistically – Account for first-year AND ongoing costs, including license renewals and compliance requirements
- Leverage professional support – The cost of expert guidance often pays for itself by avoiding costly regulatory missteps
- Anticipate market entry timing – Build a buffer of 1-3 months between registration completion and planned operational launch
- Connect with ecosystem players – Dubai’s business community offers invaluable support networks, industry groups, and incubators
Your Next Steps: Action Plan for Dubai Business Setup
Ready to begin your Dubai business journey? Follow this strategic roadmap:
Phase 1: Research and Planning (2-4 weeks)
- Market analysis: Validate your business concept in the UAE market
- Jurisdiction selection: Choose between mainland, free zone, or offshore based on your business model
- Competition research: Identify existing players and market gaps
- Budget planning: Calculate setup costs, operational expenses, and working capital requirements
Phase 2: Pre-Setup Preparation (2-3 weeks)
- Document preparation: Gather and attest all required documents
- Name reservation: Submit trade name applications
- Office search: Identify and secure business premises
- Banking research: Establish relationships with potential banking partners
Phase 3: Registration Process (3-8 weeks)
- License application: Submit complete registration documentation
- Approval process: Work with authorities to address any queries
- License issuance: Receive your trade license and official documents
- Bank account opening: Complete corporate banking setup
Phase 4: Post-Setup Operations (Ongoing)
- Visa processing: Secure residency visas for key personnel
- Compliance setup: Establish accounting, VAT registration, and reporting systems
- Business launch: Begin operations and market entry activities
- Networking: Join relevant business associations and chambers of commerce
Professional Support: When to Seek Expert Help
While Dubai’s business setup process is increasingly streamlined, complex cases often benefit from professional guidance:
When Professional Help is Essential
- Regulated industries (financial services, healthcare, education)
- Complex shareholding structures
- Multi-jurisdiction operations
- Significant capital requirements
- Specialized licensing needs
Choosing the Right Service Provider
Look for providers offering:
- Transparent fee structures
- Industry-specific experience
- Local regulatory knowledge
- Post-setup support services
- Strong banking relationships
Remember that business registration is merely the foundation—your launching pad into one of the world’s most dynamic markets. The real work begins after your license is issued, as you navigate cultural nuances, build local partnerships, and adapt your offering to regional demands.
As Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, often emphasizes: “In Dubai, we don’t wait for things to happen. We make them happen.”
Are you ready to make your business vision happen in Dubai? The opportunity awaits those prepared to navigate the path with strategic foresight and determined execution.
Conclusion: Your Gateway to Global Success
Dubai’s transformation from regional trading post to global business hub represents one of the most remarkable economic success stories of the modern era. For entrepreneurs willing to navigate the setup process strategically, the emirate offers unparalleled opportunities to access emerging markets, benefit from business-friendly regulations, and build truly international operations.
The key to success lies not just in completing the registration process, but in understanding how to leverage Dubai’s unique advantages for sustainable growth. Whether you’re a tech startup seeking regional expansion, a trading company targeting new markets, or a service provider exploring international opportunities, Dubai’s ecosystem provides the infrastructure, connectivity, and regulatory framework to support your ambitions.
Remember that business registration is just the beginning of your Dubai journey. The real value emerges as you build relationships, understand local market dynamics, and adapt your offering to regional preferences. The entrepreneurs who succeed in Dubai are those who view the emirate not just as a business destination, but as a strategic platform for global growth.
As you embark on this journey, keep in mind the words of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum: “The future belongs to those who can imagine it, design it, and execute it. Dubai provides the platform—the vision and execution remain yours.”
Your business success story in Dubai awaits. The question isn’t whether opportunity exists—it’s whether you’re prepared to seize it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the entire business registration process typically take in Dubai?
The timeline varies significantly based on jurisdiction and business activities. For straightforward free zone companies with standard activities, the process can be completed in 5-10 working days. Mainland companies typically require 2-4 weeks, while companies requiring special approvals (e.g., healthcare, education, financial services) may take 1-3 months. This timeline excludes the bank account opening process, which can add another 3-8 weeks depending on your nationality, business type, and chosen bank.
Can I register a Dubai company without physically visiting the UAE?
Yes, remote registration is possible for most company types, particularly free zone and offshore entities. The process typically requires document attestation in your home country, Powers of Attorney, and working with a local service provider who can represent you during the process. Some free zones have streamlined this further with fully digital processes. However, for mainland companies, while much can be done remotely, at least one visit is often necessary for final steps and bank account opening. Additionally, if you plan to secure UAE residency through your business, you’ll need to visit for medical testing and biometrics.
What are the minimum capital requirements for different types of Dubai companies?
Capital requirements have evolved significantly in recent years. For mainland LLCs, while the UAE Commercial Companies Law mentions AED 300,000 as standard capital, in practice, the Department of Economic Development often approves companies with “sufficient capital” for their activities, sometimes as low as AED 10,000. For free zone companies, requirements vary by zone—premium zones like DIFC require AED 500,000+, while others accept AED 50,000 or less. Offshore companies typically have no minimum capital requirement. Importantly, for many company types, you don’t need to actually deposit this capital in a bank account (except for regulated activities like financial services), but it must be declared in your company documents.
What are the ongoing compliance requirements for Dubai companies?
Dubai companies must meet several ongoing compliance obligations including annual license renewals, filing annual returns with relevant authorities, maintaining proper accounting records, VAT registration and filing (if applicable), renewing visas for employees, and ensuring compliance with labor law requirements including WPS (Wage Protection System) for salary payments. Free zone companies may have additional reporting requirements specific to their zone, while mainland companies must comply with DED regulations and may need to file corporate tax returns starting from the 2023 tax year.
Can I change my business activities or add new ones after company registration?
Yes, you can modify your business activities through a license amendment process. However, this often involves additional costs and may require approval from various authorities depending on the new activities. Some changes might trigger a reassessment of your entire license structure or require moving to a different jurisdiction. It’s generally more cost-effective to include anticipated future activities during initial registration rather than adding them later.
Additional Resources and Contacts
Government Authorities
- Department of Economic Development (DED): www.dubaided.gov.ae
- Dubai Chamber of Commerce: www.dubaichamber.com
- Federal Tax Authority: www.tax.gov.ae
- Central Bank of UAE: www.centralbank.ae
- Dubai Municipality: www.dm.gov.ae
- Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA): www.khda.gov.ae
Major Free Zones
- DMCC: www.dmcc.ae
- DIFC: www.difc.ae
- Dubai Internet City: www.dic.ae
- JAFZA: www.jafza.ae
- Dubai Media City: www.dmc.ae
- Dubai CommerCity: www.dubaicommericity.ae
Business Support Organizations
- Dubai SME: www.dubaisme.ae
- Dubai Future Foundation: www.dubaifuture.ae
- Area 2071: www.area2071.ae
- Hub71: www.hub71.com
- Dubai Startup Hub: www.dubaistartughub.com
Banking and Financial Services
- Emirates NBD: www.emiratesnbd.com
- First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB): www.bankfab.com
- Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB): www.adcb.com
- Mashreq Bank: www.mashreqbank.com
- HSBC UAE: www.hsbc.ae