In recent years, the UAE has become a popular choice for Indian entrepreneurs who want to expand their business internationally. The country offers everything an entrepreneur needs – strategic location, tax-friendly policies, and business-friendly regulations, which make it easier for Indian businesses to reach global markets.
Dubai, in particular, is a top destination because of its world-class infrastructure, zero personal income tax, and simplified company registration process. Many sectors now allow 100% foreign ownership, making it easier than ever for Indian investors to start their business. The UAE and India share strong trade relations, and many initiatives make it convenient for Indian entrepreneurs to set up and grow their business here. From Dubai, businesses can easily access markets across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Here we’ll guide you step by step on how to register a company in the UAE from India.
Why Indian Entrepreneurs Choose the UAE
The UAE has become a top destination for Indian business owners looking for growth, opportunities, and a supportive environment.
1. Tax-Friendly Business Environment
The UAE offers zero personal income tax and low corporate taxes in many sectors. This means higher profits for your business and more flexibility to reinvest in growth.
2. 100% Foreign Ownership in Many Sectors
Indian investors no longer need a local partner in many Free Zones and in most mainland sectors, allowing full control over their business operations.
3. Good Location for Global Trade
Located at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, the UAE is ideal for businesses looking to export products or services internationally. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have world-class ports and airports that make global trade seamless.
4. Business-Friendly Regulations and Quick Setup
The UAE government has simplified company registration procedures, approvals, and licensing, making it easier to start a business from India with minimal bureaucracy.
5. Strong India-UAE Trade Relations
India is one of the UAE’s top trading partners. Many Free Zones and business initiatives specifically cater to Indian investors, creating a supportive ecosystem.
6. High Quality of Life and Safety
Besides business benefits, the UAE provides excellent infrastructure, healthcare, schools, and a safe environment for business owners and their families.
Types of Business Structures in UAE
Here’s a closer look at the main business structures:
1. Mainland Company
Mainland companies are licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of a specific emirate. They can operate anywhere in the UAE and trade directly with the local market.
Ownership: Full foreign ownership is allowed in many sectors, but some require a local partner.
2. Free Zone Company
Free Zone companies operate within designated economic zones, each catering to specific industries like tech, media, logistics, or finance. These zones are designed to attract foreign investors with special incentives.
Ownership: 100% foreign ownership is allowed.
3. Offshore Company
Offshore companies are registered in the UAE but are not allowed to conduct business locally. They are mainly used for holding assets, international trade, or protecting investments. Popular jurisdictions include JAFZA Offshore and RAK Offshore.
Ownership: 100% foreign ownership.
4. Sole Proprietorship
A business owned by a single individual. This structure is often used for professional services or consultancy work.
Ownership: Fully owned by one person.
5. Limited Liability Company (LLC)
An LLC is a common structure for mainland companies, offering flexibility while protecting owners from personal liability. It is suitable for small to medium businesses operating in the UAE market.
Ownership: Minimum of 2 shareholders and maximum 50; foreign ownership depends on the business activity and sector.
The right structure depends on your business activity, goals, and whether you plan to trade locally or internationally. Free Zones are often chosen for simplicity and 100% ownership, while Mainland companies are ideal for businesses targeting the UAE market.
Legal Requirements & Eligibility Criteria for Indian Investors
Before starting a business in the UAE from India, it’s important to understand the legal requirements and eligibility criteria. Meeting these ensures a smooth registration process and compliance with UAE laws.
Minimum Age Requirement:
Investors must be at least 18 years old to legally register a company in the UAE.
Valid Passport and Identification:
A valid passport is required for all shareholders and managers. Passport copies must often be notarized or attested for UAE authorities.
Visa and Residency Requirements:
- Free Zone Companies: Indian investors can obtain a residence visa through their Free Zone company. The number of visas depends on the office space rented and the Free Zone’s regulations.
- Mainland Companies: Investors can also obtain a residence visa through their Mainland company. The number of visas depends on the office size and business activity.
- Offshore Companies: Offshore companies do not grant the right to apply for a UAE residency visa for the company owner or employees.
Bank Account Requirement:
Opening a UAE corporate bank account is necessary for company operations. Banks may require proof of business activity, passport copies, and a detailed business plan.
Legal Documents Required:
Indian investors will need:
- A valid trade license
- Passport copies of shareholders and managers
- Proof of residential address in India
- NOC from current sponsor (if employed in UAE)
- Bank reference letters or financial statements (for certain activities)
- Business plan or feasibility study (if required by the authority)
Notarised & Attested Documents:
Certain documents (like power of attorney or board resolutions for corporate shareholders) originating from India must be attested by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India and the UAE Embassy in New Delhi/Mumbai.
How to Register a Company in the UAE from India?
Business setup in the UAE from India is easier than many imagine, especially if you follow a structured approach. Here’s a detailed guide:
Step 1: Define Business Activity & Legal Form
Select your exact business activities (e.g., IT Consultancy, General Trading, E-commerce). This determines the license type (Commercial, Professional, or Industrial). Based on the activity, choose a legal structure (e.g., LLC, Sole Proprietorship, FZ-LLC).
Step 2: Choose Jurisdiction (Mainland or Free Zone)
Decide where to establish the company based on your target market (Mainland, Freezone, and Offshore). A Free Zone setup is often quicker and simpler for the initial launch, while a Mainland setup offers unrestricted local trade.
Step 3: Reserve Trade Name
Submit 3-5 potential company names for approval. The name must comply with strict UAE naming conventions (not offensive, not registered before, and reflecting the business activity).
Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval
Submit an application to the relevant authority to get approval to start your business. This approval confirms that the UAE government has no objection to you setting up a company in the chosen jurisdiction.
Step 5: Finalise Office Space
Mainland: Lease a physical office/warehouse and obtain an Ejari (attested tenancy contract).
Free Zone: Secure a space, which may be a Flexi-Desk, co-working space, or dedicated office, based on your package.
Your office space size dictates the maximum number of Investor and Employee Visas your company can apply for.
Sep 6: Draft & Sign Legal Agreements
Prepare and sign the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA) for your company. If setting up a professional Mainland company, a Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement must be signed and notarised.
Step 7: Obtain the Trade License
Pay the final government fees and licensing charges. Once paid, the authority issues the official Trade License, Certificate of Incorporation, MoA, and Share Certificates.
Step 8: Apply for Investor Visa & Emirates ID
Apply for an entry permit, complete medical fitness tests, and submit biometrics. Once approved, the Investor Visa is stamped in the passport, and the Emirates ID is issued.
Step 9: Open a Corporate Bank Account
Submit the Trade License, MoA, Passport, and Visa documents to a UAE bank.
Note: All shareholders/signatories usually need to be physically present in the UAE for this step.
Due to strict compliance checks, this can be the longest step. Prepare bank reference letters from your bank in India in advance.
Note: Working with an experienced business setup consultant like AE Setup can make the process smoother by handling document preparation, approvals, translations, attestations, and coordination from India.
Cost of Company Registration in Dubai from India in 2026
Here is a breakdown of the estimated first-year costs for an Indian entrepreneur in 2026:
Free Zone Company Setup (Most Affordable Entry Point):
| Cost Component | Estimated Annual Fee (AED) | Estimated Annual Fee (₹ Lakh) |
| Basic License Package | AED 12,000 – AED 25,000 | ₹2.7 – ₹5.7 Lakh |
| Office Space (Flexi-Desk/Shared) | AED 5,000 – AED 15,000 | ₹1.1 – ₹3.4 Lakh |
| One Investor Visa (1-2 years) | AED 3,500 – AED 6,500 | ₹0.8 – ₹1.5 Lakh |
| Establishment Card | AED 1,000 – AED 2,000 | ₹0.2 – ₹0.45 Lakh |
| Estimated Total (First Year, 1 Visa) | AED 21,500 – AED 48,500 | ₹4.9 – ₹11.0 Lakh |
Dubai Mainland Company Setup (Higher Cost, Full Market Access):
| Cost Component | Estimated Annual Fee (AED) | Estimated Annual Fee (₹ Lakh) |
| Trade License Fee | AED 15,000 – AED 30,000 | ₹3.4 – ₹6.8 Lakh |
| Office Space (Ejari Required) | AED 20,000 – AED 50,000+ | ₹4.5 – ₹11.4 Lakh+ |
| One Investor Visa (2-3 years) | AED 5,000 – AED 8,000 | ₹1.1 – ₹1.8 Lakh |
| Other Mandatory Fees | AED 5,000 – AED 10,000 | ₹1.1 – ₹2.3 Lakh |
| Estimated Total (First Year, 1 Visa) | AED 45,000 – AED 98,000+ | ₹10.2 – ₹22.3 Lakh+ |
Note: These figures are estimates for a simple business structure. Costs for specialised activities (e.g., financial services, education, or manufacturing) may vary. It is essential to get a fixed, all-inclusive quote from your chosen Free Zone Authority or a professional business setup consultant like AE Setup.
Start Your UAE Business from India with Ease
Starting a business in the UAE from India is a great way to grow your venture, enjoy tax benefits, and access global markets. However, from picking the right business type and jurisdiction to getting licenses, visas, and opening a bank account, every step is important for a smooth setup.
With All Emirates Setup (AE Setup), Indian entrepreneurs get expert support at every stage. Thanks to our strong ties with the UAE authorities, we help you get faster approvals and guide you on the best jurisdiction, licensing, visas, taxation, and banking options. We handle the complete registration process, so you can focus on growing your business without worrying about paperwork or delays.
With AE Setup by your side, setting up your UAE business from India becomes easy, fast, and stress-free. Get in touch today at info@aesetup.com.
