Starting a business in the UAE is a promising venture, thanks to its strategic location, investor-friendly regulations, and thriving economy. However, once you’ve successfully registered your company, your journey has only just begun. There are several post-registration steps that are crucial to ensure compliance, smooth operations, and long-term growth.
This comprehensive post-registration checklist will guide UAE-based entrepreneurs and investors through the essential steps after setting up a company.
1. Obtain Your Trade License
After your company is officially registered, the Department of Economic Development (DED) or relevant free zone authority issues a trade license. This license defines your legal right to operate within the UAE and specifies your business activities.
2. Open a Corporate Bank Account
A corporate bank account is essential for conducting business transactions. UAE banks have stringent KYC (Know Your Customer) policies, so be prepared with:
- Trade license
- Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Shareholder documents
- Office lease agreement
3. Register for Corporate Tax
As of June 1, 2023, Corporate Tax (CT) is mandatory in the UAE. All taxable entities must register with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) and obtain a Corporate Tax Registration Number.
Key Points:
- Applicable to businesses with net profits over AED 375,000
- Standard tax rate: 9%
- Free zone companies may qualify for exemptions, subject to compliance
Steps:
- Create an FTA account
- Submit business and owner documents
- Receive your CT registration certificate
Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines, so this step is not optional.
4. Register for VAT (If Applicable)
If your taxable turnover exceeds AED 375,000 annually, your business must also register for Value Added Tax (VAT). While VAT and Corporate Tax are separate, both are regulated by the FTA.
5. Secure Office Space and Ejari (Mainland Companies)
For mainland companies, leasing office space and registering the tenancy with Ejari is a legal requirement. This document is also essential for visa applications and license renewals.
6. Apply for Establishment Card and Labor File
Obtain your Establishment Card from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). This allows your company to legally hire staff. Then, open a labor file for managing employment contracts and payroll.
7. Sponsor and Apply for Employee Visas
Once the labor file is active, you can sponsor employee residence visas, issue Emirates IDs, and register for mandatory health insurance.
8. Register for WPS (Wage Protection System)
To ensure salary compliance, register with the Wage Protection System (WPS). This system protects employee rights and helps you meet labor law obligations.
9. Set Up Accounting and Bookkeeping
Accurate accounting and bookkeeping is vital for both VAT and Corporate Tax reporting. UAE companies must retain records for at least five years and ensure they are audit-ready.
10. Comply With ESR, UBO & AML Regulations
Adherence to the following regulatory frameworks is mandatory:
- Economic Substance Regulations (ESR)
- Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) Disclosure
- Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance
Failure to comply can result in severe penalties, including suspension of business activities.
11. Market Your Business
With legal compliance in place, begin your marketing activities:
- Launch a website
- Invest in SEO
- Leverage social media
- Develop a brand strategy
How Premia TNC UAE Can Help
Premia TNC UAE is a leading business consultancy that supports entrepreneurs and corporations with both company formation and post-registration compliance.
Our Services Include:
- Trade license assistance
- Corporate bank account setup
- Corporate Tax and VAT registration
- Employee visa processing
- Accounting and bookkeeping
- ESR, UBO, and AML compliance
Why Choose Us?
- 20+ years of global experience
- Customized service packages
- Dedicated compliance experts
- Competitive and transparent pricing
Conclusion
Establishing a company in the UAE is just the first step. To ensure legal compliance and operational readiness, you must follow a comprehensive post-registration checklist — now including mandatory Corporate Tax registration. From accounting to employee management and regulatory reporting, each step is crucial to your business success.
Let Premia TNC UAE be your trusted partner in this journey. Our expert consultants will guide you through every post-registration requirement so you can focus on growing your business with confidence.