Dubai Limited Liability Company:

A limited liability company can be formed by a minimum of two and a maximum of 50 persons whose liability is limited to their shares in the company's capital. Such companies are recognised as offering a suitable structure for organisations interested in developing a long term relationship in the local market.

Companies Law stipulates that an LLC may engage in any lawful activity except for insurance, banking and the investment of money for others.

In Dubai, the minimum capital is currently Dh. 300,000 (US$ 82,000), contributed in cash or in kind. While foreign equity in the company may not exceed 49%, profit and loss distribution can be prescribed. Responsibility for the management of a limited liability company can be vested in the foreign or national partners or a third party.

The following steps are required in establishing a limited liability company in Dubai:

Select a commercial name for the company and have it approved by the Licensing Department of the Economic Department;

Draw up the company's Memorandum of Association and have it notarised by a Notary Public in the Dubai Courts;

Seek approval from the Economic Department and apply for entry in the Commercial Register;

Once approval is granted, the company will be entered in the Commercial Register and have its Memorandum of Association published in the Ministry of Economy and Commerce's Bulletin;

The licence will then be issued by the Economic Department;

The company should then be registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

updated: 16.07.07