Foreign investors must recognize the role and functions of a local Dubai sponsor. One of the main challenges in starting and operating a business in Dubai mainland is finding a local sponsor or service agent who will vouch for your credibility with the relevant authorities for business, employment, or visit purposes.
Although arranging local sponsorship is not mandatory for foreign investors wishing to start a business or invest in Dubai mainland, it is a common practice. Dubai mainland strictly adheres to the UAE government’s shareholding structure, which now allows for 100% foreign ownership. Thus, a foreign investor does not need a local sponsor to establish a business in Dubai.
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Corporate sponsorship
When a UAE-based company, owned by local nationals, holds 51% of the shares and liabilities in a company owned by one or more foreign individuals, it is referred to as corporate sponsorship.
Individual sponsorship
When a UAE-based company, owned by local nationals, holds 51% of the shares and liabilities in a company owned by foreign individuals, this arrangement is known as corporate sponsorship.
Local Service agent
When a UAE-based company, owned by local nationals, holds 51% of the shares and liabilities in a company owned by one or more foreign individuals, it is referred to as corporate sponsorship.