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Co-Founder & CEO movingo
Editor
Author
Iakov Kukushkin
Copywriter, Journalist
Jul 22, 2025
Business activity is growing steadily. The latest statistics show that the number of registered businesses increased by 16% in the first quarter of 2025 alone. A significant number of these new companies are LLCs — Limited Liability Companies. Due to recent changes in the law, LLCs are now one of the easiest types of business to set up in the UAE.
In this article, we'll be looking at why businesses choose LLCs, how to set one up, and what you need to know before you start.
In this article, we'll be looking at why businesses choose LLCs, how to set one up, and what you need to know before you start.
- What is a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Dubai?
- Benefits of starting an LLC in Dubai, UAE
- Requirements for LLC company formation in Dubai
- Documents you’ll need to start an LLC in Dubai, UAE
- How to open LLC company in Dubai, UAE: Step-by-step guide
- LLC company formation cost in Dubai, UAE
- Type of trade licenses for LLC in Dubai
- How can movingo help you with LLC company formation?
- LLC company formation FAQ
What is a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Dubai?
An LLC is a legal business structure in Dubai where each shareholder's liability is limited to their share of the company. This means that if the company incurs any debts or faces legal issues, your personal assets are protected.
Unlike companies in the Free Zones, LLC can operate throughout the territory of the Emirates, and its capabilities are much broader. LLCs are popular for businesses involved in trading, contracting, and manufacturing.
Unlike companies in the Free Zones, LLC can operate throughout the territory of the Emirates, and its capabilities are much broader. LLCs are popular for businesses involved in trading, contracting, and manufacturing.
Benefits of starting an LLC in Dubai, UAE
LLCs are some of the most popular business structures out there, and there are a few reasons why:
- Access to the local UAE market
- Flexible office location – anywhere in Dubai
- No limit on the number of visas (based on office size)
- Simplified process — includes using the “instant license” option
- Easy to open corporate bank accounts
- Wide business activity options
- You can trade directly with companies in the UAE and around the world
- Eligible for government contracts and tenders
Requirements for LLC company formation in Dubai
To set up an LLC in Dubai, you’ll need to meet these key requirements:
- Minimum of 2 shareholders (can go up to 50)
- Appoint 1 or more managers (up to 5 allowed)
- The government has recently changed the law to allow foreigners to own 100% of a company. The previous restriction (51/49 ownership split) is still in place for some strategic industries like defense, security, banking, finance, insurance, etc.
- Commercial space (Ejari tenancy contract)
- Business must be licensed by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
- Choose a trade name and get approval
- Prepare a Memorandum of Association (MoA)
If you're thinking of starting a company in Dubai, there are some things you should know beforehand. This article covers them in detail. If you have any questions, or just want to save yourself the hassle and let professionals handle it, give us a call. We can help you figure out what kind of company would be best for your needs, help you find a good location, and deal with all the paperwork for you.
Documents you’ll need to start an LLC in Dubai, UAE
- Passport copies of all shareholders and managers
- Every shareholder’s educational qualifications
- UAE residence visa, entry stamp, or Emirates ID
- No Objection Letter (NOC) from current sponsor (if applicable)
- Tenancy contract (Ejari)
- Initial approval certificate
- Trade name reservation certificate
- Memorandum of Association (MoA)
How to open LLC company in Dubai, UAE: Step-by-step guide
There are two options for starting you LLC company:
Easy way
1
Contact movingo to avoid the hassle and headache
We'll take care of all the legal paperwork, including licenses and permits. Just let us know what name you want for your business and we'll ensure it's legally valid. We'll also help you with any other necessary paperwork.
We'll take care of all the legal paperwork, including licenses and permits. Just let us know what name you want for your business and we'll ensure it's legally valid. We'll also help you with any other necessary paperwork.
2
Start your business journey
Hard way
- Choose your business activityDecide what type of business you want to start. Examples include trading, consulting, and construction.
- Select a trade nameChoose a unique company name. Avoid names that contain religious or offensive words.
- Apply for initial approvalThis confirms that the government does not object to your business idea.
- Prepare the MoA (Memorandum of Association)This legal document outlines shareholder roles, capital, and business scope.
- Rent an office spaceYou must have a physical office. The tenancy contract must be registered (Ejari).
- Submit documents and pay feesSubmit all paperwork to the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and pay license fees.
- Get your trade licenseAfter you are approved, you will receive your official license and be able to start operations.
LLC company formation cost in Dubai, UAE
Prices vary depending on business activity and office size, among other factors. The minimum set up cost start from AED 15,000 ($4,100).
Type of trade licenses for LLC in Dubai
To operate in the UAE legally, a business needs a trade license. This also applies to individuals and freelancers – anyone doing commercial work needs a license. So, which license is best for an LLC?
- Commercial license – Optimal for buying/selling goods (trading, retail, e-commerce)
- Professional license – Best for service-based businesses (consulting, design, IT)
- Industrial license – Works well for manufacturing and industrial activities
movingo can help you choose the right license based on your business plan. Just give it a try 😉
How can movingo help you with LLC company formation?
At movingo, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs start their dream businesses in Dubai, no matter what stage they're at. Here's how we can help:
- Handle all approvals and legal paperwork
- Handle Ejari for your office space
- Draft a strong Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Find the best jurisdiction for your company and avoid money losses
- Provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Offer ongoing support even after your business is set up
Starting something new can be tough. We understand because we've been in your shoes. However, it's much easier with a trusted partner, and that's why we're here to help.
movingo is an all-in-one platform for company formation, visas, and everyday legal services in the UAE. We're here to help you avoid any roadblocks along the way. Check this out:
LLC company formation FAQ
Just contact us, and we’ll take care of it
Yes, you can start an LLC in Dubai remotely with the help of a business setup service like us. However, some steps, such as signing the MoA or obtaining a visa, may require your presence
Prices typically start at AED 15,000 (about $4,100)
LLC (Limited Liability Company) is the legally recognized structure under UAE law. "Ltd" is a UK term and not commonly used in the UAE system
Full access to UAE and international markets, multiple visa options, limited liability protection, no personal income tax and more
Dubai LLCs may be subject to a 9% Corporate Tax if their net income exceeds 375,000 AED. If it's less than that, the tax rate is 0%
Yes, an LLC requires a physical office
They must adhere to the UAE's general business rules, Corporate Tax regulations, and other applicable laws
LLC registration is usually completed in 5 to 10 working days
There is no minimum amount of capital required by law
It just means you work for a Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Yes, but with some restrictions
Yes, foreigners can fully own an LLC except in some strategic industries.
Contact us and share your documents, and we will get them for you.
LLC must have at least 2 shareholders and can have up to 50
No, except for some strategic industries
What to read next
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