Starting a business in the UAE

Begin with the operation you want to build

A useful first discussion starts with what the business will actually do: its customers, activities, people and commercial relationships. Explain whether you are creating a new venture, opening an additional operation or moving an existing business.

For a project involving Lebanon, the UAE or another country, distinguish where the owners are based from where the company, customers, staff and assets will be. These connections help frame the questions for assessment.

Prepare a short business brief

A one-page outline is enough to begin. Identify what is decided, what remains open and the date by which you need to make your next decision.

• Proposed activities, customers and markets.
• Owners, intended roles and the way decisions will be made.
• Existing entities, agreements, premises and staff that may be affected.
• Countries connected to the operation and any advisers already involved.
• The intended timetable, practical constraints and immediate questions.

Separate the decisions that need attention

Ask which questions concern the proposed structure, relationships between owners, commercial agreements or the transition from an existing operation. Clarify what legal work is proposed and where separate accounting, tax or other specialist input may be needed.

If you are relocating, list the commitments you want to retain, change or end. Existing arrangements deserve attention alongside the plans for the new business.

Give the first conversation a clear outcome

Aim to leave with the next questions identified, a proposed scope of assistance and a clear request for any documents needed. The firm’s published service profile includes business establishment and relocation consultations; the appropriate assistance is considered for each matter.