Main Zone guide

Documents required for company formation in the UAE: a complete checklist

Company Formation2 min readLast updated 5 Oct 2026

Having the right documents ready is the fastest way to speed up your business setup. Use this checklist of the documents required for company formation in the UAE to prepare before your first consultation.

For individual shareholders

  • Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Passport size photo with a white background
  • Current UAE visa or entry stamp, if you are in the UAE
  • Proof of residential address
  • Short CV or profile, for some free zones

For corporate shareholders

  • Certificate of Incorporation
  • Memorandum and Articles of Association
  • Board resolution approving the UAE company
  • Certificate of Good Standing
  • Attestation and legal translation, where required

For the company

  • Three proposed trade names
  • List of business activities
  • Business plan, for some activities and zones
  • Office or flexi desk agreement (Ejari for mainland)

For the bank account

  • Trade license, MOA and incorporation certificate
  • Emirates ID and visa of signatories, if available
  • Source of funds and expected turnover
  • Company profile, contracts or invoices

For residence visas

  • Entry permit
  • Medical fitness certificate
  • Emirates ID application
  • Health insurance, where required

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FAQ

Documents issued outside the UAE for corporate shareholders usually need attestation. Individual passport copies usually do not.

Yes. Most free zones and DET accept documents digitally.

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