Opening a commercial register in Dubai for Saudis is an important strategic step for Saudis seeking to expand their business or start new projects in one of the most vibrant and advanced cities in the world. Dubai, with its supportive business environment and multiple business advantages, offers vast opportunities for foreign and local investors alike. With its ideal geographical location between East and West, and its continuous development in infrastructure and technologies, Dubai is emerging as a major destination for international business.
For Saudis, opening a commercial register in Dubai is an opportunity to benefit from the encouraging government policies and tax exemptions provided by free zones, as well as providing an ideal business environment that supports innovation and growth. Starting with choosing the appropriate type of business entity, whether it is a limited liability company (LLC), a branch of a Saudi company, or even investing in free zones, Saudi investors must understand the requirements and procedures necessary to ensure smooth establishment and compliance with local laws.
The basic steps to open a commercial register in Dubai include submitting an application to the Department of Economic Development, choosing the appropriate business name, and submitting the required documents such as proof of identity and business plans. It also requires obtaining the necessary licenses and complying with business registration requirements. These steps are necessary to ensure that the business is started in a legal and orderly manner.
The process of opening a commercial register in Dubai requires full knowledge of the regulations and requirements, and with the help of specialized local consultants, Saudis can achieve success in this dynamic market. Thanks to the encouraging business environment, Dubai provides an ideal platform for growth and expansion of businesses, making it an ideal destination for ambitious investors from Saudi Arabia.

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Opening a commercial registry in Dubai for Saudis is an important strategic step to expand in a market full of economic opportunities. Dubai is considered one of the most prominent business destinations in the world, and its market is characterized by a high level of development and advanced infrastructure, making it an ideal place for Saudi investors. To open a commercial register in Dubai, you must follow some basic steps:
- Determine the type of company: Saudi investors must determine the type of company they wish to establish. You can choose between different types of business entities such as limited liability companies (LLC), joint stock companies, or wholly owned companies in free zones.
- Preparing a feasibility study: Conducting a comprehensive feasibility study helps in analyzing the market, identifying opportunities and challenges, and presenting a clear business plan. This includes studying competition, analyzing demand, and determining a marketing strategy.
- Site selection: Choosing the appropriate location depends on the type of business activity. Investors can choose between locations in free zones that offer benefits such as tax exemptions, or locations within Dubai that offer diverse business opportunities.
- Registration and obtaining a license: Submit an application to obtain a commercial license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the competent authority in free zones. This requires submitting basic documents such as the lease contract, identity documents, and business plan.
- Opening a bank account: Opening a business bank account in a local bank is necessary to manage funds and facilitate financial operations.
- Visa Insurance: Investors and team members may require business visas. Visas can be applied for through the competent authorities after obtaining the commercial license.
- Compliance with Local Laws: Comply with all local laws and regulations, including trademark registration, meeting tax requirements, and employee registration.
Documents required to submit an application to open a commercial register
When anyone, including Saudis, applies to open a commercial registry in Dubai , there are usually a set of documents required. The required documents may vary depending on the type of company the applicant wishes to establish and in which area of Dubai he intends to open the commercial register. Here is a general list of documents that may be required when submitting an application to open a commercial register in Dubai:
- Copy of Passport: The applicant needs to submit a valid copy of his passport.
- Personal photos: The applicant may be asked to submit recent personal photos.
- Letter of introduction from the bank: The applicant needs to submit a letter of introduction from the bank proving the source of funds used in business activities.
- Real estate deeds: If a property is being used as a company headquarters, real estate deeds may be needed proving ownership or lease of the place.
- Commercial license application form: The commercial license application form must be filled out with personal information and details of the proposed company.
- Business Plan: A detailed business plan must be submitted that explains the company’s goals and future plans.
- Partnership contract (if a joint venture): If there are partners in the company, a partnership contract setting out their shares and liabilities will usually be required.
- Other legal documents: The legal company being established may require the submission of additional documents according to the type of company and activity.
Fees required to register the commercial registry in Dubai
The fees required to register the commercial registry in Dubai vary based on the type of company, type of license, and business activity. In general, fees include:
- License fees: A fee is paid for issuing a commercial license, which varies depending on the type of business activity and location, whether it is in the free zones or in mainland Dubai.
- Registration Fee: Includes the company’s initial registration fee, which covers the costs of submitting the application and processing documents.
- Lease fee: This includes the rental fee for the office or headquarters in which the company will be located, and is an essential part of the registration cost.
- Registration fees in government departments: You may need to pay additional fees to register the company with various government departments, such as the Department of Economic Development or the competent authorities in free zones.
- Special License Fees: If a business requires special licenses or additional permits, there may be fees associated with issuing these licenses.
- Trademark Registration Fees: If a company wishes to register its trademark, an additional fee has to be paid for this purpose.
- Additional Services Fees: Fees include fees for any additional services such as legal advice or translator services.
Conditions for renewing the commercial registration in Dubai
Renewing the commercial registration in Dubai is an important process to ensure that business activity continues legally and in compliance with local regulations. Renewal requirements and conditions vary depending on the type of company and location, but there are basic conditions that all companies must adhere to:
- Fees must be paid: Commercial registration renewal fees must be paid, which vary based on the type of company and commercial activity. This includes the renewal fee itself and any additional fees that may be required.
- Submitting the required documents: Specific documents must be submitted to renew the commercial register, such as a recent copy of the commercial license, the current lease contract, and any other documents related to the company such as special license certificates.
- Updating information: Renewal requires updating any information that may have changed since the last renewal, such as a change in company address, addition or deletion of partners, or modification in business activity.
- Compliance with local laws: You must ensure that the company is compliant with all local laws and regulations, including paying taxes and updating business records, in accordance with local requirements.
- Proof of continuing activity: Proof that the company is still operating and continuing its activity may be required, such as providing financial reports or documentation of business activities.
- Registration in government departments: If there are changes in the commercial activity or nature of the work, new approvals or licenses must be obtained from the relevant government agencies.
- Insurance and Other Licenses: In some cases, a business’s insurances or licenses may be required to be renewed as part of the renewal process.

At the conclusion of our article about opening a commercial register in Dubai for Saudis , we find that Dubai offers an ideal environment for Saudi investors wishing to expand their business beyond their geographical borders. Thanks to the smooth procedures and government support provided, Saudis can take advantage of the great opportunities the city offers to create and develop their businesses.
A good start in the process of opening a commercial register in Dubai requires careful preparation and strategic planning. Saudi investors must first conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to analyze the market and understand the business requirements. It is necessary to determine the type of company they wish to establish, whether it is a limited liability company (LLC) or a wholly owned company in a free zone, as each type has different requirements and procedures.
The next step involves submitting an application to obtain the appropriate commercial license from the Department of Economic Development or the competent authorities in the free zones. Make sure all required documents are completed, such as the lease agreement, identity documents, and business plans, to ensure the approval process is expedited.
Moreover, Dubai offers attractive benefits such as tax exemptions and licensing facilities, which contribute to reducing costs and increasing profitability. It is recommended to cooperate with an experienced Itqan company to facilitate procedures and deal with legal and administrative challenges.
The most important frequently asked questions about opening a commercial register in Dubai for Saudis
Can Saudis own and manage companies in Dubai?
Yes, Saudis can own and manage companies in Dubai in accordance with local laws and regulations.
What taxes must Saudis pay when establishing a company in Dubai?
In Dubai, there are no corporate income taxes in the majority of sectors, but there may be special taxes on some sectors.
Can Saudis own a company entirely in Dubai?
Yes, Saudis can fully own companies in Dubai if the company is registered in free zones. In non-free zones, the Saudis may need a local partner who owns 51% of the shares.
Are there special advantages for Saudis when opening a company in Dubai?
Yes, Saudis can benefit from the advantages that Dubai offers such as tax exemptions in free zones, a supportive business environment, and the presence of advanced infrastructure.
What legal procedures must Saudis follow when opening a company in Dubai?
Legal procedures include preparing incorporation documents, complying with local laws related to the business, paying due fees, and registering the trademark if necessary.