Launching a company in the UAE has never been more straightforward or attractive. With over 115,000 new business licenses issued across the seven emirates in 2024 (a 19% increase YoY), the UAE business setup landscape continues to lead the Middle East for speed, transparency, and investor-friendly policies.
At the heart of every successful incorporation is the Certificate of Incorporation UAE — the official document that legally brings your company into existence. This comprehensive 2025 guide explains exactly what it is, the latest requirements, step-by-step process, costs, and how to get yours issued in as little as 48 hours.
What Exactly is the Certificate of Incorporation in the UAE?
The Certificate of Incorporation UAE (sometimes called Establishment Certificate, Memorandum of Association, or Commercial Registration Certificate) is the foundational legal document issued by the relevant UAE authority (DED, free zone, or federal entity) that confirms:
- Your company legally exists
- Date of incorporation
- Shareholders and share allocation
- Registered business activity
- Legal form (LLC, FZ-LLC, etc.)
It is mandatory for opening a corporate bank account, applying for visas, signing leases, and proving ownership.
Mainland vs Free Zone: Where Will Your Certificate Be Issued?
Factor | Mainland (DED) | Free Zone |
Issuing Authority | Department of Economy & Tourism | Individual free zone authority |
100% Foreign Ownership | Yes (1,000+ activities) | Yes (all activities) |
Local Market Access | Unlimited | Only via local distributor |
Certificate Name | Certificate of Incorporation + Trade License | License + MOA (serves as Certificate) |
Renewal | Annual | Annual |
Full Step-by-Step Process for UAE Business Setup & Obtaining the Certificate (2025)
- Decide Jurisdiction & Activity Choose mainland or one of 45+ free zones.
- Reserve Trade Name Instant online approval via DubaiNow, or free zone portals.
- Submit Initial Application Upload passport copies and activity details.
- Prepare & Sign Legal Documents Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA/AOA) — now 100% digital in most free zones.
- Secure Office Solution Physical Ejari (mainland) or flexi-desk/virtual office (free zones).
- Pay Fees Instant e-payment gateways.
- Receive Digital Certificate of Incorporation + License Delivered via email/SMS within minutes to 7 days depending on authority.
- Apply for Establishment Card & Visas Required for residency processing.
Complete List of Documents Required for Certificate of Incorporation UAE
For Individual Shareholders
- Passport copy (valid minimum 6 months)
- Recent passport-sized photos (white background)
- UAE visa page + Emirates ID (if resident)
- No-Objection Certificate from current sponsor (only if on employment visa and taking active role)
- Proof of residential address
For Corporate Shareholders
- Parent company Certificate of Incorporation (notarized & attested)
- Board resolution authorizing UAE setup
- Power of Attorney for the appointed manager
- MOA/AOA of parent company
- All documents legalized by UAE embassy + MOFAIC (unless GCC-issued)
Additional Documents (Activity/Jurisdiction Specific)
- Business plan (some free zones & banks)
- Lease agreement or Ejari
- Local Service Agent agreement (only for certain mainland professional licenses)
Timeline & Costs in 2025
Jurisdiction | Time to Certificate | First-Year Cost (AED) |
IFZA, Meydan, SPC Free Zone | 1–3 days | 12,900 – 18,500 |
DMCC / JAFZA | 5–10 days | 35,000 – 65,000 |
Dubai Mainland LLC | 5–14 days | 25,000 – 48,000 |
Abu Dhabi (ADDED mainland) | 3–7 days | 18,000 – 40,000 |
RAKEZ | 2–5 days | 6,999 – 16,000 |
Top 6 Authorities Issuing Certificate of Incorporation in UAE (2025)
- Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) – Mainland Dubai
- IFZA – Fastest & most affordable in Dubai
- Meydan Free Zone – 100% remote process
- DMCC – Gold, diamonds, crypto, general trading
- Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) – Growing rapidly
- RAK Economic Zone (RAKEZ) – Cheapest industrial & commercial licenses
Legal Requirements & Critical 2025 Updates
- Federal Decree-Law No. 32/2021 (new Companies Law) – fully implemented
- 100% foreign ownership extended to almost all mainland activities
- Mandatory Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) declaration within 60 days of incorporation
- Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) filing for “Relevant Activities”
- Corporate tax 9% only on mainland profits above AED 375,000
Ready to Secure Your Certificate of Incorporation UAE?
Avoid costly mistakes, document rejections, or delays. Peak Group’s licensed consultants have guided thousands of entrepreneurs through seamless UAE business setup journeys across all emirates and free zones.
We handle everything from start to finish — trade name reservation, MOA drafting and notarisation, Certificate of Incorporation issuance, corporate bank account opening, investor and employee visas, plus VAT registration — Get Free Consultation
Get your Certificate of Incorporation UAE issued faster than you ever thought possible. Call +971 50 707 8555 or email dursamin@peakconsultancy.com to book your FREE 2025 consultation with Peak Group today!
Let’s turn your UAE business vision into reality — faster, smoother, and completely stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the Certificate of Incorporation the same as the trade license?
No. The trade license authorizes you to conduct business activities, while the Certificate of Incorporation confirms that your company legally exists. Both documents are normally issued together. In most cases, these documents are issued by free zone authorities.
2. Can I get the Certificate of Incorporation 100% remotely in 2025?
Yes. Most UAE free zones — including IFZA, Meydan, SPC Free Zone, RAKEZ, SHAMS, and Ajman Free Zone — now offer fully remote company registration without the need to visit the UAE.
3. How long is the UAE Certificate of Incorporation valid?
It is typically valid for one year and is renewed automatically when you renew your trade license.
4. Can I open a bank account with just the digital Certificate of Incorporation?
Yes. Major banks such as Emirates NBD, Mashreq, ADCB, FAB, and RAKBANK accept digital certificates for initiating the account opening process.
5. What is the minimum share capital requirement in 2025?
Free zones: Can start from AED 25,000.
Mainland: Typically AED 50,000–300,000, depending on the business activity.
Some sectors may require higher capital under regulatory authorities.
6. Do I still need a local sponsor in 2025?
Only for a few restricted sectors, such as:
• Oil & gas
• Banking & finance
• Security & defense
For most business activities, 100% foreign ownership is allowed.
7. What happens if I don’t register for UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Owner)?
Failure to register can lead to:
• Fines of up to AED 100,000
• License suspension
• Possible restrictions on banking and government services