Essential Legal Documents for Starting a Business in the UAE

Starting a business in the UAE requires meticulous preparation and understanding of the essential legal documents for a smooth setup process. NH Management outlines the key legal documents every entrepreneur should have to ensure compliance and successful business operations.

legal documents for business setup

List of Legal Documents for Business Setup

1. Articles of Incorporation

Establish the company’s existence and outline the basic structure and purpose of the business.  This includes the company name, business activities, capital structure, and details of shareholders. It is mandatory for all businesses, whether on the mainland or in a free zone.

2. Shareholder Agreements

Define the relationship between shareholders and their rights and obligations, including share ownership, voting rights, profit distribution, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Businesses with multiple shareholders must prevent conflicts and ensure smooth operations.

3. By laws (Memorandum and Articles of Association)

Provide detailed governance and operational guidelines for the company. Rules for managing the company, roles and responsibilities of directors, and procedures for meetings and decision-making. Ensure clarity in the company’s internal processes and compliance with UAE regulations.

4. Trade License

Legal permission to conduct business activities within the UAE. Business name, activity description, and regulatory approvals. Depending on the business location, the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority issued it.

5. Lease Agreement

Confirm the physical location of the business operations. Lease terms, rental amount, duration, and property details. Necessary for obtaining the trade license and proving business premises. In Dubai, the lease agreement is called an ejari.

6. Employment Contracts

Define the terms of employment for staff members. Job description, salary, benefits, working hours, and termination conditions. All employees are required to ensure compliance with UAE labour laws.

7. Power of Attorney

Grant legal authority to individuals to act on behalf of the company. Scope of authority, duration, and specific actions permitted. Useful for delegating responsibilities, especially for legal and financial matters.

8. Bank Account Setup Documents

Facilitate financial transactions and business operations. Company registration documents, trade license, and identification documents of shareholders and directors. Essential for managing the company’s finances and day-to-day transactions.

9. Intellectual Property Documents

Protect the company’s brand, inventions, and other intellectual property. Trademark registrations, patents, and copyrights. It is essential for safeguarding business assets and ensuring competitive advantage.

NH Management Facilitates Legal Documents for Business Setup UAE

NH Management aims to equip entrepreneurs with legal documentation to ensure a seamless business setup process in the UAE. We offer contract drafting and translation services to ensure foreign companies comply with local requirements. By partnering with corporate services providers like NH Management, businesses can establish a solid legal foundation, comply with local regulations, and focus on growth and success. 

We are keen to understand your requirements and help you prepare all the documents required for your entry into the UAE business landscape. To learn more, simply reach out to our business consultants at info@nhmanagement.com or +971 4 2221327.

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