Establishing a company in Dubai from abroad might seem daunting, but with the right expertise, it becomes strategic, seamless, and highly rewarding. At Spectrum, we provide remote, end-to-end support tailored to entrepreneurs in the USA and UK—handling everything from licensing to compliance, banking, and beyond.
Why Dubai, and Why Spectrum?
Dubai offers an incredibly pro-business environment: 100% foreign ownership in Free Zones, zero corporate and personal income tax in most cases, full profit and capital repatriation, and world-class infrastructure. With its geographical and economic gateway between East and West, it’s a logical step for global businesses.
With Spectrum at your side, you gain remote end-to-end support—including entity selection, document handling, licensing, banking, visa facilitation, and compliance—which makes incorporation virtually effortless even from halfway across the globe.
Step-by-Step: Incorporating from the USA/UK
1. Choose Your Jurisdiction & Business Structure
• Free Zones: Ideal for 100% foreign ownership and global operations, especially via tech, media, or trade hubs. They offer licensing and office options (e.g., flexi-desk, co-working)
• Mainland: If you’re targeting the local UAE market, Mainland licenses (now allowing 100% ownership in most sectors) are the way to go.
Spectrum assists in selecting the right structure based on your business activity and long-term strategy.
2. Reserve Trade Name & Submit Documentation
From overseas, you can submit key documents electronically:
• Passport copies of shareholders
• Proposed trade name
• Business activity outline
• Proof of address or business plan, depending on jurisdiction
Spectrum handles name approval, licensing paperwork, and liaises with authorities on your behalf.
3. Secure Your License Remotely
Whether opting for Free Zone or Mainland:
• Licenses can be processed remotely, often within days in Free Zones.
• Mainland setups may require slightly longer but are fully manageable via Spectrum’s support infrastructure.
4. Address, Banking & Visa Logistics
• Office Setup: Free Zones allow virtual offices or flexi-desks; Mainland may require physical office setups depending on license type.
• Bank Account: Spectrum connects you with UAE banks that accept remote applications for commercial accounts—smooth, efficient, and fast.
• Visa & Emirates ID: While physical presence is required for medical screening and biometric steps, Spectrum coordinates appointments and ensures smooth visa processing.
5. Corporate Tax Registration & Compliance
After incorporation, UAE law requires corporate tax registration and adherence to VAT thresholds, Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) and Economic Substance (ESR) reporting, especially for certain activities.
6. Ongoing Support
Spectrum’s support doesn’t stop at setup—we offer concierge, HR, legal, accounting, marketing, permit renewals, and more, ensuring your venture thrives long-term.
1. Can I set up a UAE company entirely from the USA or UK?
Yes. Everything up to visa issuance and Emirates ID can be handled remotely. Spectrum guides you through each stage—including name reservation, licensing, and bank account setup—leaving only physical steps like biometrics for your visit.
2. Do I need a UAE resident or partner?
Not in Free Zones—100% foreign ownership is fully permitted. Mainland companies now allow full ownership in most sectors thanks to recent legal updates. Legacy cases still have exceptions, but Spectrum helps you select the right path.
3. How long does the process take?
From initial document submission to license issuance typically takes 1–2 weeks, particularly in Free Zones. Mainland setups may take longer due to additional approvals.
4. What are the costs involved for overseas incorporation?
Base license packages start at approximately AED 12,500 for Free Zones and AED 23,500 for Mainland setups. Additional costs include visa fees, office (if required), and banking—Spectrum supports cost-effective planning.
5. What ongoing compliance should I expect?
After setup, you must handle:
• License renewal (annual)
• VAT or corporate tax (if applicable)
• UBO & ESR reporting
• Bookkeeping and audit (if required)
Spectrum provides full compliance management to keep your company in good standing.
