United Arab Emirates flag United Arab Emirates: Investing in the United Arab Emirates

Investment framework and opportunities in the United Arab Emirates

Procedures Relative to Foreign Investment

Freedom of Establishment
The UAE issued Decree Law No. 19 on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in September 2018, which grants authorised foreign investment companies the same treatment as domestic companies, to the extent permitted by current legislation. Nevertheless, in practice, increased foreign ownership is limited to a few sectors and linked to costly requirements. Therefore, the cases in which it will be possible and feasible for a company to increase its foreign shareholdings beyond 49% remain rare.
Acquisition of Holdings
The Council of Ministers approved on 3 March 2020 a positive list of economic sectors eligible for 100% foreign ownership. 
Obligation to Declare
There is no special obligation to declare.
Competent Organisation For the Declaration
World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies
Requests For Specific Authorisations
Foreign ownership is restricted in companies that perform certain regulated activities. In the sectors of banking, insurance, health, maritime transport, education, media, and telecommunications, specific authorisations from the ministries in charge are required.

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Investment Opportunities

Investment Aid Agency
Investment Corporation of Dubai
Abu Dhabi Investment Authority
Tenders, Projects and Public Procurement
Tenders Info, Tenders in United Arab Emirates
DgMarket, Tenders Worldwide
Other Useful Resources
Visit Dubai Portal
UAE Free Zones Directory

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Latest Update: February 2025