Emirpass provides a 360-degree corporate services solution for setting up and running companies in Dubai and across the UAE. We help you select the right jurisdiction, obtain commercial or professional licenses, structure ownership, secure visas and banking, and maintain compliance, supported by a network of legal, tax, accounting and banking partners.
Business setup: from idea to licensed company
Setting up a business in the UAE is straightforward when the steps are clear and coordinated. Our role is to design and implement t he full structure for you.
Jurisdiction
Free zone, mainland or offshore - depending on your market focus, substance requirements, and level of operational flexibility.
Legal form
Free zone company (FZCO/FZE), LLC, branch, holding, trust, foundation or other structure, aligned with your ownership and governance needs.
License type
Commercial, professional, crypto and, where relevant, industrial or other specialized categories.
Activities scope
The right business activities so your license covers your real operations and future plans, not just the minimum.
Typical business setup steps we coordinate for you (free zone or mainland)
- Define business activities and target markets.
- Choose jurisdiction and legal form.
- Reserve and approve the trade name.
- Prepare applications and corporate documents.
- Obtain initial approvals from relevant authorities.
- Finalize lease/flexi-desk arrangements where required.
- Issue the trade license and corporate documents.
- Register for additional requirements (tax, ESR/UBO if applicable).
Commercial Licenses
trading, e-commerce, distribution
A commercial license is used for businesses that trade goods or certain types of services – such as general trading, import/export, wholesale, logistics, e-commerce and distribution.
Professional Licenses
consultants, experts and service providers
A professional license is intended for service-oriented businesses that rely on expertise and skills rather than trading physical goods – from consultants and engineers to creatives and niche professional services.
Our corporate services
Below is a high-level overview of the core services provided by Emirpass. Each engagement is tailored to your structure, industry and jurisdiction.
Company Formation
- Advisory on choosing between free zone, mainland, offshore and other vehicles.
- Incorporation of holding, operating and special-purpose entities.
- Redomiciliation, restructuring and re-alignment of existing groups.
- Coordination of cross-border aspects with your existing advisors where needed.
Visas & Immigration
- Residence visas for shareholders, employees and family members.
- Emirates ID, medicals and related procedures.
- Ongoing PRO support for renewals and status changes.
Banking & Financial Support
- Preparation and positioning of your case for corporate bank account opening.
- Coordination of documentation and communication with banks.
- Ongoing support where structural changes affect banking relationships.
Accounting, Tax & Auditing
- Structuring of accounting and reporting processes through partner firms.
- Coordination of corporate tax and VAT registration where required.
- Ongoing liaison with accountants and auditors so your filings remain timely and consistent.
Legal & Contractual Support
- Commercial contracts, NDAs, service agreements and local law documentation.
- Employment contracts aligned with UAE labour regulations.
- Policy documents and internal rulebooks for your UAE entity.
Government Relations & Permits
- Approvals from local authorities where specific activities require additional permits.
- Liaison with free zone, municipal and other government bodies on your behalf.
Licensing & Activity Structuring
- Design of license scope (commercial, professional and other categories).
- Selection and combination of permitted activities aligned with real operations.
- Support with additional approvals for regulated sectors through our partner network.
Corporate Governance & Secretarial Support
- Shareholder agreements, board and partner resolutions.
- Amendments to shareholding, directors, managers and company details.
- Maintenance of corporate records, registers and official filings.
Compliance: ESR, UBO, AML and Local Requirements
- Guidance on economic substance regulations and practical implementation.
- UBO identification and filings, including ongoing updates.
- Coordination of AML/KYC frameworks for relevant activities, in collaboration with specialized providers.
IP & Brand Protection
- Guidance on trademark strategy and protection in the UAE and, where relevant, other jurisdictions.
- Coordination of filings with partner IP firms.
Relocation, Property & Lifestyle
- Practical relocation support for owners and key staff.
- Coordination around office space, flexible workspaces and, where required, residential property introductions.
HR, Payroll & Benefits Coordination
- Basic HR and payroll frameworks tailored for UAE operations.
- Coordination of medical insurance and other mandatory benefits through approved providers.
