Business Setup in Fujairah
Fujairah, one of the UAE’s seven emirates, is a prime destination for mainland business setup. Known for its strategic location near key ports and relaxed regulations, Fujairah offers a cost-effective and flexible environment for entrepreneurs. The emirate provides easy access to global markets via the Indian Ocean and offers a streamlined setup process through the Department of Economic Development (DED). Coupled with favorable licensing costs and liberal ownership laws, this makes setting up a company in Fujairah an attractive option for investors across sectors.
Businesses benefit from 100% foreign ownership, eligibility for government contracts, and low operational costs. With licenses issued in under a week and a wide range of legal structures available, Fujairah has become a hub for SMEs, traders, and industrial operations. Whether you aim to enter logistics, manufacturing, or e-commerce, this emirate provides a launchpad for success.
Main Features of Fujairah Mainland Business Setup
Advantages of Business Setup in Fujairah
Types of Fujairah Mainland Business Licence
Fujairah offers several UAE business license types tailored to various business models. Each license is designed to support different industry needs, from trading and services to manufacturing and tourism.
| License Type | Activity |
| Commercial | For trading (e.g., electronics, food, textiles). |
| Professional | For services (consulting, IT, engineering). |
| Industrial | Manufacturing, processing, and production. |
| Tourism | Hotels, travel agencies, and adventure tourism. |
| Freelance | For self-employed professionals (designers, writers, etc.). |
Activities Allowed in Fujairah Mainland
Fujairah offers a broad range of business activities suited for entrepreneurs across industries. Here are the most in-demand activity categories:
Commercial and Trading License
Popular for businesses involved in regional and international trade:
- General Trading: Engaging in the sale and distribution of diverse consumer and industrial products.
- Logistics & Shipping: Providing freight forwarding, cargo handling, and supply chain management.
- E-Commerce: Running online platforms for products such as apparel, electronics, and household goods.
- Construction & Contracting: Supplying construction materials and undertaking infrastructure projects.
Why it’s popular: The emirate’s proximity to shipping ports and its cost advantages make it a preferred choice for trade-driven businesses.
Service-Oriented Activities
Popular for businesses offering specialized services:
- Healthcare Services: Establishment of clinics, laboratories, and wellness centers.
- Real Estate Brokerage: Buying, selling, and managing residential or commercial properties.
- Automotive Services: Vehicle repair, detailing, and spare parts trading.
- Agriculture & Fisheries: Farming, food processing, and aquaculture ventures.
Why it’s popular: The flexible licensing regime and growing local demand support a range of niche service providers.
Business Entities Permitted in Fujairah Mainland
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Activities: Any commercial or industrial business.
Ownership: 2–50 shareholders (individuals or corporate).
Requirements:
- MOA signed before notary.
- Registered office in Fujairah.
- Capital contribution as agreed in MOA.
- Trade name must reflect business activity.
- One or more managers (named in license).
Drawbacks: More administrative steps than other structures; annual audit may be required.
Sole Establishment
Activities: Suitable for professional or consultancy services.
Ownership: Single individual (UAE/GCC nationals can own directly; others need a Local Service Agent).
Requirements:
- Trade name approval.
- Proof of academic qualifications (for certain services).
- Lease agreement.
- Can open branches under same license.
Drawbacks: Unlimited liability; owner is fully responsible for debts and legal claims.
Branch of Foreign Company
Activities: Same as parent company’s activity.
Ownership: Fully owned by foreign company.
Requirements:
- Parent company documentation legalized in UAE.
- Appoint UAE-based representative.
- Trade name matching parent.
- Office lease in Fujairah.
Drawbacks: Cannot change activity from parent’s scope; requires additional attestations.
Requirements for Fujairah Business Setup
The process of Fujairah company set up in mainland involves fulfilling several essential conditions:
- Defined business activity as per the approved list issued by the Fujairah Department of Economic Development (DED); some sectors may require external approvals.
- Legal structure selection based on the ownership model and business goals (e.g., LLC, Sole Establishment, Branch).
- Trade name reservation in compliance with DED naming standards.
- Valid office lease agreement for physical or virtual premises in Fujairah (Ejari required).
- Supporting documents including passport copies of all shareholders, UAE residence visa (if applicable), and appointment of a manager.
- Local service agent appointment for specific professional structures when owned by non-GCC nationals.
- Initial approval issued by the DED after review of documents and chosen activity.
Required Documents to Set Up a Company in Fujairah
- 01
Passport copies of shareholders.
- 02
UAE visa (if applicable).
- 03
Tenancy contract.
- 04
MOA (for LLCs).
- 05
Activity-specific approvals (e.g., from Ministry of Health for clinics).
Steps for Setting Up a Company in Fujairah Mainland
- 01
Choose activity & legal structure.
- 02
Reserve trade name with Fujairah DED.
- 03
Submit documents for initial approval.
- 04
Lease office (or opt for virtual office).
- 05
Pay fees and collect license.
- 06
Open bank account.
Ongong compliance:
- 07
Annual license renewal.
- 08
VAT filing (if applicable).
Office lease renewal.
Why Should You Choose ITA Consultants?
At ITA Business Consultants, we position ourselves as trusted experts in UAE company formation, compliance, and expansion. With deep market insight and an experienced team, we guide investors through every stage of the Fujairah mainland company setup.
Why partner with ITA:
- No hidden charges or unexpected rejections.
- From trade name registration to visa assistance.
- Company setup in as little as 3 days.
- Post-setup help with banking, accounting, and renewals.
Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on building your business.
with Expert Support
With a deep understanding of UAE regulations and a strong commitment to client success, ITA is your reliable partner for Fujairah company setup. Our team streamlines the process, offering personalized guidance to ensure a seamless and efficient setup.
Get in touch with our specialists today to start your journey toward successful Fujairah business formation. With over a decade of expertise in international tax planning, a team of 200+ seasoned professionals, and a proven record of completing 1,500+ client projects across 40 jurisdictions, ITA is equipped to help your business thrive. From crafting strategic plans to executing tailored solutions, we ensure your company setup is seamless, compliant, and positioned for sustainable success in this thriving emirate.
Fujairah Company Set Up FAQ
Only a few regulated sectors (like oil/gas, military, and banking) require Emirati participation. Over 1,500 commercial and professional activities are open to 100% foreign ownership.
Yes! Your Fujairah mainland license permits operations across all UAE emirates without additional approvals, though your legal address must remain in Fujairah.
No minimum capital is mandated for most activities. However, we recommend AED 50,000-100,000 as working capital for smooth operations.
Visa quotas depend on office size (1 visa per 80 sq.ft typically). A standard 300 sq.ft office secures 3-4 visas, including investor, employee, and family visas.
Only if you are taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 annually. Many startups qualify for VAT exemption initially.
Absolutely! The process takes 5-7 working days. You will need to cancel your free zone license and re-register with Fujairah DED while maintaining your trade name.
- License Fees: AED 10,000–20,000.
- Trade Name: ~AED 1,000.
- Ejari (Lease Registration): ~AED 2,000.
- Visa Costs: AED 3,000–5,000 per visa.