What documents do I need to set up a UAE company?

The core document checklist

Most standard company setups start from the same short list. For each individual shareholder and the appointed manager, you'll typically need:

• Passport copy — clear and valid for at least six more months.
• Passport-size photograph — usually a recent one against a plain background.
• Completed application form — the incorporation form for your chosen authority.
• Proof of address — a utility bill or similar may be requested in some cases.
• NOC or CV — some activities or zones ask for a short CV, and if you already hold a UAE visa a No Objection Certificate may be needed.

If a shareholder is a company

When one of the owners is another company rather than an individual — a corporate shareholder — the paperwork steps up. You'll usually need that company's trade licence, its Memorandum and Articles of Association, and a board resolution approving the new UAE entity.

These corporate documents often need to be attested or notarised, and if they were issued abroad they may need legalisation for use in the UAE. It's worth confirming the exact requirement early, as attestation can take time.

When you'll need more

Certain regulated activities — such as financial, medical or legal services — require external approvals from the relevant authority, and those bring extra documents. Documents issued outside the UAE may also need attestation or legalisation before they're accepted. Because the list shifts with your activity and jurisdiction, Bizvisor gives you the exact checklist for your case up front, so nothing is missing when you file.