One of the most common questions asked by first-time entrepreneurs in this part of the world is whether they need a local sponsor in Dubai. The answer depends on many factors, including your nationality and the type of business you wish to set up.
If you’re a non-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) national looking to set up a business with a commercial or industrial licence on the UAE mainland, then yes, you will need to partner with a local sponsor. If, however, you are setting up in a free zone, or your business activity is covered by a professional services licence, a local sponsor is not required.
If your business does require a local sponsor, Emaraat Business Consultant is on hand to help.
First, you’ll need to establish a mainland LLC – of which you retain 49% ownership with the other 51% going to the local sponsor. Rest assured, however, that profits are not split along these same lines and your local partner will have little-to-no say in the day-to-day running of your company.