Author: Hanoof Al Naama
Published: August 21, 2024
Category: Business Setup in Dubai
The business landscape of Dubai, UAE, is incredibly appealing to entrepreneurs from all over the world. For those exploring business ideas in Dubai or looking to establish a company, the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPCFZ) specialises in simplifying the process and can guide you through each step, ensuring a smooth and successful business setup in Dubai.
Whether you are a seasoned businessperson or a newcomer to the entrepreneurial world, SPCFZ can provide the expertise you need to navigate the complex landscape of business setup in Dubai. From helping you understand the professional license cost in Dubai to offering guidance on the business licenses you might need, SPCFZ ensures you have a comprehensive approach to your business setup.
If your business activities align with the Sharjah Free Zone activities, SPCFZ provides specialised support to optimise your business operations within this zone. Their services cover everything from applying for your business license in Dubai and other emirates to ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.
The following table provides a comprehensive overview of all documents required for your professional license application in Dubai:
| Document | Description | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Completed Application Form | Official application form for professional business license | First step in the application process; must be fully completed |
| Passport Copies | Copies of passports for all business partners and shareholders | Must be clear copies; passports must be valid for at least six months from application date |
| Passport-Sized Photographs | Recent photographs of all business partners and shareholders | Must adhere to UAE's official specifications regarding size, background colour, and other requirements |
| Proof of Residency | UAE residency documentation (if applicable) | UAE residents: copies of UAE residency visas and Emirates ID cards; Non-residents: entry stamps or visit visas (if previously visited UAE) |
| No Objection Certificate (NOC) | NOC from current employer (if applicable) | Required if any shareholders or partners are currently employed in the UAE |
| Business Plan | Comprehensive business plan document | Must outline professional activities, business objectives, target market, and financial projections |
| Proof of Professional Qualifications | Educational certificates and experience documentation | Required depending on the nature of professional activities; must provide proof of relevant qualifications and experience |
| Tenancy Contract | Valid tenancy contract or Ejari certificate | Must be for business premises; contract must be registered with the Sharjah Municipality |
| Memorandum of Association (MOA) | Partnership structure document (if applicable) | Required for partnerships; outlines partnership structure, roles and responsibilities, profit-sharing arrangements, and other critical details |
| Partnership Agreement | Detailed partnership terms document (if applicable) | Must clearly define each partner's duties, terms of partnership, and procedures for resolving disputes |
| Bank Reference Letter | Letter from personal or corporate bank | Must attest to financial standing and ability to manage a business |
| Attestation of Documents | Attested educational and professional certificates | Some documents (educational certificates, professional qualifications) may need attestation by relevant authorities in home country and UAE; check specific attestation requirements |
| Power of Attorney (POA) | Notarised POA (if using representative) | Required if appointing someone to act on your behalf during application process; authorises representative to sign documents and make decisions |
| Payment Receipt | Proof of payment for all applicable fees | Must include fees for initial approval, trade name reservation, and licensing |
You must submit copies of the passports of all business partners and shareholders. Ensure that these copies are clear and that the passports are valid for at least six months from the date of application.
Provide recent passport-sized photographs of all business partners and shareholders. These photographs should adhere to UAE's official specifications regarding size, background colour, and other requirements.
If you or any of the shareholders are UAE residents, you must provide copies of your UAE residency visas and Emirates ID cards. Non-residents do not need to provide this documentation but must submit entry stamps or visit visas if they have previously visited the UAE.
If any of the shareholders or partners are currently employed in the UAE, an NOC from their current employer is required.
A comprehensive business plan outlining your professional activities, business objectives, target market, and financial projections is essential.
Depending on the nature of your professional activities, you may need to provide proof of relevant qualifications and experience.
A valid tenancy contract or Ejari certificate for your business premises is required. This contract must be registered with the Sharjah Municipality.
Draft an MOA if you are setting up a partnership. The MOA outlines the partnership's structure, including each partner's roles and responsibilities, profit-sharing arrangements, and other critical details.
The Partnership Agreement should clearly define each partner's duties, the terms of the partnership, and procedures for resolving disputes.
A bank reference letter from your personal or corporate bank is often required and should attest to your financial standing and ability to manage a business.
Some documents, such as educational certificates and professional qualifications, may need to be attested by relevant authorities in your home country and the UAE. Ensure that you check the specific attestation requirements for your documents.
A notarised POA is required if you appoint someone to act on your behalf during the application process. This document authorises your representative to sign documents and make decisions on your behalf.
You must provide proof of payment for all applicable fees, including fees for initial approval, trade name reservation, and licensing.
Navigating Dubai's professional business license application process can be challenging, but SPCFZ is here to help. Here's how SPCFZ can help you set up your business in the UAE:
SPCFZ provides personalised advice on the documents required for your professional business license application, ensuring your documentation is complete and accurate.
SPCFZ helps prepare all necessary documents, including application forms, business plans, and partnership agreements.
SPC provides attestation services for educational certificates, professional qualifications, and essential documents, handling the entire process for you.
Use the SPCFZ Business Cost Calculator to estimate your professional business license application expenses. It helps you budget effectively for your business setup.
The SPCFZ Name Check feature helps you instantly find an ideal business name. Quickly verify availability and suitability to secure your Name Reservation Certificate with minimal effort.
Securing a professional license in Dubai is a detailed process that requires careful preparation and the submission of several critical documents. Ensuring you have all the necessary paperwork can significantly streamline your application process. Working with a local business setup consultant can also provide valuable guidance and support, helping you confidently navigate the licensing procedure's complexities.
Embark on your business journey today, equipped with the knowledge and resources to bring your business idea to life in one of the world's most vibrant business environments. Let SPCFZ assist you in simplifying the process, ensuring a smooth and successful application for your professional business license.
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPCFZ)