Establishing a company in Dubai represents an important strategic step for Saudis looking to expand their businesses and investments in the Middle East. Dubai is characterized by a dynamic business environment and a distinct strategic location, making it one of the best destinations for establishing new companies. Dubai offers Saudi businessmen great potential in terms of advanced infrastructure and flexible legislation that supports foreign investment. In this article, we will review the basic steps and requirements necessary to establish a company in Dubai , in addition to the benefits that can accrue to Saudi businessmen from their investment in this thriving market.

Establishing a company in Dubai for Saudis
Establishing a company in Dubai for Saudis
Choosing the type of company in terms of choosing the appropriate type of company, such as a sole proprietorship, a limited liability company, or a joint stock company. To establish a company in Dubai , follow these steps:
- Choosing a company name: The name must be unique and comply with local laws.
- Determine the commercial activity: Determine the company’s activity and obtain a permit for it from the relevant authorities.
- Determining the location: Choosing a suitable location for the company’s headquarters, whether inside or outside Al-Hurria.
- Obtaining the necessary licenses: Obtaining the necessary licenses and permits from local authorities, such as a work license and building permit if necessary.
- Identification of partners and shareholders: If the company is a joint-stock company, the partners must be identified and their information provided to the local authorities.
- Preparing the necessary contracts: preparing the incorporation contracts, terms and conditions that regulate the company’s work and determining the rights and obligations of the partners.
- Registration in the Commercial Registry: Submit the required documents and register in the Dubai Commercial Registry.
- Opening a bank account: Opening a bank account in the name of the company to manage financial matters.
- Obtaining a work permit: If there are foreign employees, the necessary work permits must be obtained.
- Ensuring tax compliance: Ensuring compliance with local and international taxes, if necessary.
- Specialized consultation: Cooperation with the advisors of Itqan Consulting Company for establishing companies and investing in Dubai to ensure full compliance with laws and legislation.
These steps constitute the basic framework for establishing a company in Dubai for Saudis, and may require additional steps depending on the type of company and activities chosen.
Types of companies that Saudis can establish in Dubai
Here is a table showing the types of companies that Saudis can establish in Dubai:
Type of Company | a description |
---|---|
Sole proprietorship | A company managed by one person and that person is responsible for all financial obligations. |
Shareholding company | A company in which several people (partners) can contribute to its capital, and profits and losses are distributed among them according to their shares. |
Private joint stock company (limited liability) | A company in which the liability of the partners (shareholders) is limited to the value of their shares in the capital. |
Subsidiary (branch) | A branch of a company located in Saudi Arabia that is established in Dubai and is affiliated with the Saudi parent company. |
Joint company | A company established between a Saudi partner and an Emirati partner, each of whom enjoys half the responsibility. |
This table provides an overview of the main types of companies that Saudis can establish in Dubai. Requirements and procedures vary based on the type of company and local laws.
Conditions for establishing a company in Dubai for Saudis
Type of company: The appropriate type of company, such as a sole proprietorship, joint stock company, or limited liability company, must be determined according to the company’s planned activities. To establish a company in Dubai as a Saudi, here are some basic conditions that must be taken into account:
- Trade name: The trade name must be unique and comply with local laws, and this is verified upon registration.
- Commercial activity: The commercial activity that the company will undertake must be determined, and the necessary licenses and permits must be obtained for that.
- Main location: A suitable location must be determined for the company’s headquarters, whether inside or outside Dubai Freedom, and this must be done in accordance with local laws.
- Minimum Capital: There may be minimum capital requirements depending on the type of company chosen, and this capital must be secured before registration.
- Local partnership: In some cases, national companies (that are not in the Hurriyat) may require a local partner to have a certain percentage, but there are Hurriyats that allow Saudis to own 100% without a local partner.
- Licenses and Permits: The necessary commercial licenses and permits must be obtained from local authorities, such as a business license and municipal and building permits if necessary.
- Tax compliance: You must ensure compliance with local and international taxes, and register in tax records if necessary.
- Contracts and legal documents: The necessary legal documents must be prepared and submitted, such as the articles of incorporation and terms and conditions that govern the company’s operation.
- Final Registration: Registration in the Dubai Commercial Registry is required, which includes submitting all required documents and paying the necessary fees.
These conditions represent a general framework for establishing a company in Dubai as a Saudi, and the detailed requirements vary based on the type of company and planned activities. It is necessary to consult Etqan to ensure full compliance with local laws and regulations.
The cost of establishing a company in Dubai for Saudis
The cost of establishing a company in Dubai varies based on several factors, such as the type of company, location, and additional services that the investor may need. Generally, specific prices cannot be mentioned here based on pricing policies that vary between accounting and consulting firms and legal service providers in Dubai. However, the costs of establishing a company in Dubai usually include the following:
- Company registration fees: Includes company registration fees in the commercial registry and payment of government fees related to incorporation.
- Legal services fees: If a legal consulting firm is contracted to assist in preparing legal documents and registration.
- Work permit costs: If work permits are required for foreign employees.
- Virtual office or business office costs: If a virtual office or business office is needed in the absence of a physical office.
- Accounting services costs: If accounting services are hired to manage the company’s records and financial reports.
To obtain accurate and transparent costs, it is recommended to contact service providers in Dubai, such as accounting and legal consulting firms, to obtain a comprehensive cost quote that reflects your company’s specific needs.
The importance of establishing a company in Dubai for Saudis
Access to a developed international market, as Dubai is considered a gateway for business in the Middle East and North Africa region, which provides Saudi companies with the opportunity to access wide international markets. Establishing a company in Dubai for Saudis carries several benefits and importance, including:
- Advanced infrastructure: Dubai has an advanced infrastructure that includes modern transportation, communications and financial services facilities, facilitating global shipping and distribution operations.
- Flexible and supportive business environment: Dubai is characterized by flexible economic policies and investment-friendly laws, with flexibility in procedures for establishing and operating companies.
- A global financial and commercial center: Dubai is considered a global financial and commercial center thanks to the presence of a free market, free zones, and various commercial complexes, which gives companies the opportunity to grow and expand.
- Favorable investment policies: There are a number of government policies and initiatives that support foreign and local investments in Dubai, which increases the attractiveness of the market for investors.
- Cultural and linguistic diversity: Dubai has great cultural and linguistic diversity, which makes it easy to deal with clients and partners from different cultures and nationalities.
- Distinctive strategic location: Dubai is located at the intersection of major air and sea routes, making it a trade and transportation center in the region.
In addition, establishing a company in Dubai gives Saudis the opportunity to expand into new markets and achieve long-term growth and sustainability.

The importance of establishing a company in Dubai for Saudis
Documents required to establish a company in Dubai for Saudis
To establish a company in Dubai as a Saudi, the required papers usually include the following documents:
- Registration Application Form: The company registration application form must be filled out and submitted to the Dubai Commercial Registry.
- Copy of passport: for all Saudi shareholders, directors and partners.
- Certified document for partners and shareholders: You need a document proving their identity and signing the articles of incorporation.
- Details of partners and directors: include full personal information, contact details and current address.
- Business Plan: A document detailing the chosen business activity, a plan of action and expected investments.
- Articles of Association: A document that specifies the terms of the company’s incorporation, including activities, percentage of participation, and distribution of profits and losses.
- No objection certificate: for Saudi partners from government agencies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
- Activity permits and licenses: Permits and licenses from the relevant authorities in Dubai according to the type and scope of activity.
- Capital Deposit Certificate: The required capital deposit certificate must be submitted for the chosen company type.
- Employment contracts: If there are foreign employees, employment contracts and work permits may be required.
These documents are essential for establishing a company in Dubai as a Saudi, and you must ensure that all local requirements and licenses are met before applying. It is recommended to cooperate with Itqan consultants to ensure full compliance with local laws and regulations.
In conclusion of the article about establishing a company in Dubai for Saudis, it can be said that choosing Dubai as a business location is an important strategic step for Saudi investors. Dubai provides advanced infrastructure, favorable economic policies, and a supportive investment environment, making it an ideal destination for growth and expansion in regional and global markets. In addition, Dubai offers great opportunities to engage with a wide cultural and linguistic diversity, which enhances networking opportunities with business partners from different backgrounds.
Frequently asked questions about establishing a company in Dubai for Saudis
How can Saudis protect their intellectual property in Dubai?
Intellectual property can be protected through registration and registration at the International Intellectual Property Office (WIPO) and reviewing local laws to obtain the necessary protection.
Can Saudi companies move capital or profits freely to and from Dubai?
Yes, Saudi companies can freely transfer capital and profits to and from Dubai, in accordance with local financial laws and regulations.
How can work permits be obtained for Saudi employees in a Dubai company?
Applications for work permits must be submitted through the Dubai Labor Department, providing the required documents and adhering to the specified conditions.
Licenses and permits required to start work in Dubai:
- Work permit for foreign employees if required.
- Commercial and professional activity licenses from local authorities.
- Building and environmental permits if necessary for the chosen activity.