Most attraction for Investors in UAE is Safe investment environment and the UAE is a safe place to live and invest. And Dubai is the one of the biggest business hubs for international trade in the world. Dubai provides integrated infrastructure and sustainable environment for business.
In the UAE, every individual emirate, Free Zone and the Federal Government has its own rules and regulations for the setting up of companies and operating businesses. There are many options open to Foreign Companies and Individuals who are looking to register their company in UAE. Carrying out a business in UAE without the necessary licenses and permits is considered illegal and can call for huge penalties and fines.
Some of the most common types of arrangements/entities are:
Foreign Investment Companies
Limited Liability Company (LLC) –Mainland Company
Branch or Representative Office of a foreign company
Commercial Agency or Distributor arrangements
Professional Service Company
Free Zone Company
Offshore Company
2. Legal Support to Company Sale & Purchase
Sometimes, instead of incorporating a company from scratch, entrepreneurs prefer to buy already existing business that includes a set of assets.
Now market offers to purchase a large number of ready-made companies from various sectors of the economy. However, with the growth of supply and demand, more and more scammers appear who sell shell companies or falsify financial indicators. Therefore, it is best to approach a specialist in order to purchase a company.
When purchasing, it is necessary to correctly evaluate the business and arrange sale and purchase transaction with the owner, taking into account all legal requirements.
Business owners, for one reason or another, may want to sell it. Assessment of an enterprise, preparation for sale, negotiations with buyers are complex and time-consuming tasks. Therefore, we offer assistance in sales of business – a comprehensive service for full support of the deal.
3. Liquidation of Companies
Compliance with the statutory procedures for the liquidation of a business entity is no less important than the procedure for its establishment.
PVEEZ Legal helps business entities undergo the liquidation procedure. Due to our expertise we can run liquidation of a business entity with maximum efficiency and minimum fuss.
- Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Dubai?
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Yes. Since the 2021 reforms, most mainland commercial and industrial activities allow 100% foreign ownership without a local sponsor. Free zone companies have always allowed full foreign ownership. A small number of strategic activities remain restricted, so we check your specific activity.
- What is the difference between a mainland and a free zone company?
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A mainland company, licensed by the Dubai DET, can trade across the UAE. A free zone company is licensed by its zone and can trade within the zone and internationally, but generally needs a distributor, a mainland branch or a permit to sell directly to mainland customers. The tax position also differs.
- What changed in the UAE Commercial Companies Law in 2025?
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Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2025 amended the law to allow multiple share classes in mainland LLCs, in-kind capital contributions, drag-along and tag-along rights and private placements by private joint stock companies. It also confirmed that the law applies to onshore activity by free zone branches and added a mechanism for transferring a company's registration between authorities.
- What documents do I need to set up a company in Dubai?
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Typically passports and Emirates IDs or visas for the shareholders and managers, a proposed trade name, a business activity description, a tenancy contract (for mainland), and a Memorandum of Association. Requirements vary by structure, activity and authority, and we confirm the exact list for your case.
- How can I safely buy an existing company in the UAE?
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Carry out legal due diligence before paying. Verify ownership, the licence and its activities, contracts, liabilities, litigation, tax filings and the financial figures. Beware of shell companies and falsified accounts. A properly drafted sale and purchase agreement, with warranties and indemnities, protects you.
