Contents
The list of documents depends on the zone and the type of activity, but the core set is similar across most jurisdictions. Gathering it in advance will noticeably shorten the timeline.
If the founder is an individual
- Copy of a valid passport
- Passport-style photo
- Proof of residential address: a utility bill or bank statement
- Contact details: email and phone number
- The zone's application form and a completed licence application
Some zones also ask for a bank reference letter or a short business plan.
If the founder is a company
- Certificate of incorporation and articles of association
- Register of shareholders and directors
- Resolution to establish a subsidiary in the UAE
- Power of attorney for the signatory
- Beneficial owner information
Documents of a foreign company usually require notarisation, an apostille or consular legalisation, and translation into English or Arabic.
What to check before filing
- Passport validity: many zones require a remaining validity margin
- Consistent spelling of the name across all documents
- Currency of the proof of address: most often no older than three months
- The business activity and the corresponding licence code
Common mistakes
- Submitting documents with different spellings of the name
- Expired attestations
- Choosing the wrong business activity, which then has to be changed
- Missing beneficial owner information
After registration you will need to open a bank account, and the documents are often reused. A package prepared in advance saves time at both stages. For help choosing a jurisdiction, read How to Choose a Free Zone.