Branch and representative office in the UAE
Companies already operating abroad can open a UAE branch or representative office to build a regional presence without forming a new, separate company.
Branch vs representative office
Branch office
A legal extension of the parent company. It can carry out the licensed activity and trade in the UAE under the parent name.
Representative office
Promotes the parent company, studies the market and liaises with clients. It generally cannot carry out commercial activity or issue invoices.
Subsidiary company
A separate legal entity such as an LLC or a free zone company. Often chosen when liability separation matters.
Where you can open one
Branches can be opened on the mainland or in many free zones. Rules for a representative office differ by emirate and authority, and some free zones do not offer them.
The parent company stays responsible for the branch. Many authorities require the parent company to have operated for a set period and to provide attested documents.
Documents usually needed
- Parent company certificate of incorporation
- Memorandum and articles of association
- Board resolution to open the branch
- Power of attorney for the branch manager
- Passport copies for the manager and signatories
- Attestation of foreign documents as required
Need attestation first?
Documents from abroad are usually notarised and attested before use in the UAE. We can guide the chain.
Message a consultantHow we open your branch
Plan the structure
Branch, representative office or subsidiary.
Prepare and attest documents
Parent company papers and attestation.
Name and activity approval
Approval from the licensing authority.
Tenancy and licence
Secure office and obtain the licence.
Establishment and visas
Immigration card, visas and bank account guidance.
Related pages
Open your UAE office with confidence
Branch or representative office, we prepare the parent company documents and manage the licence.
Plan my branchFrequently asked questions
What is the difference between a branch and a subsidiary?
A branch is part of the parent company, which is liable for it. A subsidiary is a separate company with its own legal identity.
Can a representative office make sales?
Generally no. It is limited to promotion, market research and liaison. Commercial activity needs a branch or a company.
Do the parent company documents need attestation?
Usually yes. The exact chain depends on the country and the document.
Can I open a branch in a free zone?
Many free zones accept branches of foreign companies. We confirm which zones fit your activity.
Ready to get started?
Tell us about your plan and we reply with the recommended route, an itemised proposal and the next steps.