- Define Your Business Activities Clearly outline what your holding company will own and manage (equity in subsidiaries, real estate, IP, investments). This determines your license category and legal requirements.
- Choose the Right Jurisdiction Decide between mainland (Department of Economy and Tourism) or a free zone (e.g., DMCC, DIFC, ADGM) based on market access, ownership flexibility, and tax considerations.
- Select Legal Structure Most holding companies are set up as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Private Limited Company. Your choice affects liability, governance, and compliance obligations.
- Reserve Trade Name & Obtain Initial Approvals Pick a unique trade name that complies with UAE regulations, then apply for initial approval from DED (mainland) or the relevant free zone authority.
- Draft and Sign the Memorandum of Association (MOA) Formalize shareholders’ stakes, governance rules, and capital structure in the MOA and related agreements.
- Apply for Your Trade License Submit your license application under the “Activities of Holding Companies” category, pay fees, and fulfill any additional regulatory requirements.
- Open a Corporate Bank Account Provide your company’s license, ownership chart, and MOA to open an account capable of handling inter-company transactions and capital transfers.
- Obtain Visas & Maintain Compliance Apply for shareholder and employee visas if needed, then ensure annual filings, corporate tax reporting, and audits to keep your holding company in good standing.
- Leverage Key Benefits Asset protection through separate legal entities; tax efficiency with 0% personal and potentially 0% corporate tax; centralized control and streamlined succession planning; 100% foreign ownership in free zones.
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