Establishing a Branch of a Foreign Company in Dubai is the most prestigious and effective way for global corporations to tap into the Middle East market while maintaining their original corporate identity and legal continuity. Unlike a subsidiary, which is a separate legal entity, a branch is an extension of the parent company and operates under the same name and legal status. In 2026, as Dubai continues to host major global forums and trade shows, multinational firms are increasingly choosing this structure to demonstrate their long-term commitment to the region. At Tdabeer, we provide the high-level legal and administrative support required to handle the complex attestation and registration processes involved in launching a Branch of a Foreign Company in Dubai.

The Legal Status of a Branch Office

A Branch of a Foreign Company in Dubai is legally tied to its headquarters. This means that the parent company is fully responsible for the liabilities and operations of the Dubai branch. While this requires a higher degree of risk management, it also provides the branch with the immediate prestige and financial backing of the global brand. In 2026, there is no requirement for a local UAE national partner (Sponsor) for a branch office; however, a “Local Service Agent” may be appointed to handle administrative and labor-related paperwork. The branch is restricted to the same activities as the parent company and cannot engage in activities that its headquarters is not licensed for.

Step-by-Step Registration and Attestation

The most challenging part of setting up a Branch of a Foreign Company in Dubai is the documentation. In 2026, all parent company documents must be apostilled in the home country and attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). The standard workflow includes:

1. Board Resolution: A formal document from the parent company’s board authorizing the opening of the branch in Dubai.
2. Certificate of Incorporation: A certified copy of the original business license from the home country.
3. Power of Attorney: Appointing a manager in Dubai to handle the daily operations of the branch.
4. DED Approval: Submitting the attested documents to the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) for initial approval.
5. Ministry of Economy Registration: All foreign branches must be registered in the “Foreign Companies Register” at the Ministry of Economy.

Branch vs. Subsidiary: A 2026 Comparison

To help your corporate board decide on the best expansion model, here is a comparison of a Branch of a Foreign Company in Dubai versus a Subsidiary:

Banking and Financial Reporting for Foreign Branches

Opening a corporate bank account for a Branch of a Foreign Company in Dubai is a high-level procedure. Banks in 2026 require a deep “Know Your Customer” (KYC) audit of the parent company, including its global financial statements and shareholder structure. Tdabeer works with premium relationship managers at Emirates NBD and HSBC to ensure that our corporate clients experience a smooth banking integration. Additionally, the branch must maintain accurate local accounts to comply with the UAE Corporate Tax law, even if the parent company consolidates these figures globally.

Why Tdabeer is the Choice for Global Firms

Corporate expansion requires more than just a PRO; it requires a strategic legal partner. Tdabeer specializes in managing the complexities of a Branch of a Foreign Company in Dubai for international clients. We handle the entire attestation chain, manage the translation of corporate documents into Arabic, and liaise with the Ministry of Economy on your behalf. Our team ensures that your branch setup complies with the 2026 Commercial Companies Law, allowing your executive team to focus on business development while we secure the administrative foundation of your Middle Eastern headquarters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there a minimum capital requirement for a branch?

In 2026, there is no mandatory “Upfront” capital deposit for a Branch of a Foreign Company in Dubai, as the branch relies on the parent company’s capital. However, the parent company must show proof of its original capitalization.

How long does the setup process take?

Due to the attestation and Ministry of Economy registration, the setup of a foreign branch typically takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on how quickly the home country documents are legalized.