How to Start Business on the Right Foot in Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi is one of the best countries for setting up a business in the UAE. Besides being the UAE’s capital city, it is also the second most populous city. When a company or business setup in Abu Dhabi, you must look at the economic factors, the availability of space and the right consumers. Once you find a fit, you can start a business in Abu Dhabi.

The GDP of Abu Dhabi stands at $178 billion, and the per capita income for the population is $61,000. Hence, it is considered a high-income economy. Therefore, you have tremendous business potential in the city. Before you shape your plans, you must try to understand how to start a business in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi contributes about 10% of the world’s total oil supply. However, the country is not just limited to oil reserves. Several other industries are evolving in the city, and you can capitalize on the same.

You can explore the dynamic industries in the country and then work on setting up a company in Abu Dhabi. Before starting a business in Abu Dhabi, you must consider different factors as your initial investment, target audience etc.

Abu Dhabi also provides flexible financing options. Hence, once you understand the cost of starting a business in Abu Dhabi, you can reach out to banks and other financial institutes for a loan.

How to Start a Business in Abu Dhabi?

If you are wondering how to start a business in Abu Dhabi, we will take a step-by-step approach to understand the entire process. Let’s look at the steps involved in developing a business setup in Abu Dhabi.

• Decide the Business Activity

Before starting a business in Abu Dhabi, you must identify the company you want to perform in the city. The business registration process requirements depend on the activity’s nature. Hence, you need to decide on the business you want to conduct through your company.

Currently, a company in Abu Dhabi can take up any one form of business from the six business forms. These business forms include industrial, occupational, agricultural, professional, commercial and tourist related.

• The Company Type

There are different types of legal entities that you can incorporate in Abu Dhabi. You must comply with specific requirements based on the structure and company type. Some of the standard company types in Abu Dhabi are :

• • Partnership
  • Limited Liability Company
  • Public Joint Stock Company
  • Private Joint Stock Company
  • Foreign Company Branch

There are a few other types too. You must read through their requirements list before choosing a company type.

• Choosing A Name

Once you decide on the type of company, you need to propose a name for the company. You must get your name registered with the Department of Economic Development. You must ensure that the name does not hurt religious sentiments or violate society’s morals.

Also, you should refrain from using the names of Government authorities in the name. Also, the company’s name should give a fair idea about the nature of the business and the activities the company will perform in Abu Dhabi. Once you register the name and make the registration payment, you will receive a payment voucher for the transaction.

• Initial Approval

You will get a trade name certificate once your business name is approved. Now, you can apply for a business license. You must also seek the permission of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs during the incorporation process.

• MOA and Other Formalities

You must draft a Memorandum of Association of whether you are incorporating a limited partnership, an LLC, a PJSC, or a PRJSC. You must contact a notary public and get the document duly attested. Once you submit the MOA, you need to get approval from several government authorities like the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Justice, etc.

•  Business License

After completing all the steps, a business license will be issued to you. You need to visit the service centre of the Economic Department to collect the license. You need to submit all the necessary documents to get a business license. Once you get the license, you can start your business activities in Abu Dhabi.

In Conclusion

Setting up a business in Abu Dhabi is quite easy. Also, the market is at a stage where your business will undoubtedly grow. You must try to understand the steps involved in setting up a business in Abu Dhabi before you get involved with different formalities. Once you get a business license, you can start your regular business activities in Abu Dhabi.

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