Commercial Law
What it is: Company formation is the process of legally establishing a business, choosing the right structure and jurisdiction, and obtaining the necessary licences. In the UAE you can set up onshore (mainland) under the Commercial Companies Law, or in a free zone such as DIFC or ADGM, each with different ownership, tax and regulatory features. When it applies: This is relevant for entrepreneurs and investors starting a business, foreign companies entering the UAE market, and existing businesses restructuring or expanding. How a lawyer helps: A lawyer advises on the best structure and jurisdiction for your activity and goals, drafts the memorandum, articles and shareholder agreements, and handles licensing, registration and regulatory approvals. The lawyer clarifies ownership rules, visas and compliance obligations, and helps structure the business to protect founders and investors. First steps: Define your business activity, ownership and funding plans, gather shareholder and identity documents, and consult a commercial lawyer to compare onshore and free-zone options before committing. Choosing the right setup early avoids costly restructuring later. This is general information, not legal advice for a specific case.
