Brought to you by D99 Advisors – Your Trusted Setup Partner in the UAE
Thinking about starting a business in Dubai?
Great choice. Dubai is one of the most dynamic, opportunity-rich cities in the world to launch and grow a business. But between choosing the right structure, dealing with government approvals, and figuring out where to start—it can get overwhelming quickly.
That’s where D99 Advisors steps in. We simplify the entire process—from your first idea to your first invoice.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how company formation works in Dubai—and how we make it smooth, compliant, and stress-free.
✅ Step 1: Define Your Business Activity
Your business activity determines everything—your license, legal structure, and what you’re allowed to do in the UAE.
How D99 Advisors helps:
We help you choose the exact activity from the approved UAE list, and make sure it aligns with your goals, target market, and future growth plans.
🌍 Step 2: Mainland or Free Zone?
This is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make.
- Mainland: Work anywhere in the UAE, including with local clients
- Free Zone: Ideal for international trade, online business, or cost-effective setups with 100% foreign ownership
How D99 Advisors helps:
We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each—based on your budget, business model, and whether you plan to expand locally or globally.
📝 Step 3: Pick and Reserve Your Company Name
Choosing the right trade name is exciting—but there are strict naming rules in the UAE.
How D99 Advisors helps:
We handle name checks, ensure it complies with local naming laws, and get it officially reserved.
🏢 Step 4: Get Initial Approval
This is the UAE’s way of saying “Yes, we’re okay with your idea in principle.”
How D99 Advisors helps:
We prepare and submit your application with the relevant authority (Department of Economic Development or Free Zone), so your approval comes through quickly and without error.
📑 Step 5: Submit Legal Documents
Now it’s time to send in the paperwork. Requirements may vary depending on your business structure and chosen location.
D99 makes it easy by:
- Giving you a customized checklist
- Preparing your MOA (Memorandum of Association) or LSA agreements (if needed)
- Managing translations, attestations, and approvals
🪪 Step 6: Get Your Business License
Once everything is approved, your trade license is issued—officially making your business legal in Dubai!
D99 handles:
- Final submission
- Follow-ups with the licensing authority
- Immediate handover of your license once approved
🧑💼 Step 7: Apply for UAE Visas (if needed)
Planning to live in the UAE or sponsor staff? You’ll need to apply for visas linked to your new company.
D99 Advisors will:
- Set up your establishment card
- Submit visa applications
- Guide you through the medical test & Emirates ID process
- Help you manage future visa renewals
🏦 Step 8: Open Your Corporate Bank Account
Opening a bank account can be tricky without proper support—but it’s essential for running your company.
D99 assists with:
- Recommending banks that suit your business model
- Preparing the full set of required documents
- Coordinating appointments and follow-ups until your account is live
🤝 Why Set Up Your Company with D99 Advisors?
We know there are dozens of business setup firms out there—but we’re not just here to tick boxes.
At D99 Advisors, we bring:
- 💡 Honest, strategic advice (not just “quick setups”)
- 🧾 Transparent, end-to-end service—no hidden surprises
- 💬 One point of contact who actually knows your business
- 📍 In-depth knowledge of all UAE jurisdictions (Mainland, Free Zones, Offshore)
🔄 Ongoing support even after your company is formed (tax, compliance, advisory)