What documentation and registration services does SecureXpats offer in the UAE?

SecureXpats provides documentation and administrative assistance for individuals and businesses in the UAE. Its services are UAE wills registration assistance, marriage registration in Abu Dhabi, true copy attestation, company formation (mainland and free zone) and power of attorney (POA) support. The team guides you from your initial requirement and document preparation through submission to the relevant authority and final confirmation. SecureXpats is based in Business Bay, Dubai.

Is SecureXpats a law firm, and does it provide legal advice?

No. SecureXpats states that it is not a law firm and does not offer legal advice. Its role is limited to procedural and documentation support: explaining the steps, preparing documents, coordinating submissions with the relevant authorities and tracking progress until completion. If you need advice on how UAE law applies to your personal circumstances, such as how your estate should be divided, speak to a licensed UAE lawyer.

Can non-Muslim couples register their marriage in Abu Dhabi?

Yes. Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021 allows civil marriage for non-Muslim citizens and residents of the emirate, and Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 on Civil Personal Status, effective 1 February 2023, extends a civil family-law framework to non-Muslim residents across the UAE. Applications are made through the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), which sets the eligibility conditions, including the religion, age, consent and marital status of both parties. SecureXpats helps you check eligibility, prepare the documents and support the application.

What is true copy attestation in the UAE and when do I need it?

A true copy attestation confirms that a photocopy is an exact copy of the original document, certified by an authorised body such as a notary public. It is commonly requested for items like passports, certificates, trade licences and powers of attorney used for visas, banking, company setup or legal procedures. Depending on the document and the authority that will receive it, further attestation, for example by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, may be needed. SecureXpats coordinates with authorised attesting entities so the document is accepted for its intended use.

What is the difference between mainland and free zone company formation in the UAE?

A mainland company is licensed by the emirate’s economic department (for example Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism), while a free zone company is licensed by the individual free zone authority, such as DMCC, IFZA or JAFZA. Each free zone runs its own application process and document list, so there is no single checklist that fits every setup. The right choice depends on your business activity, where you plan to trade and your office requirements. SecureXpats supports both routes, including trade licence coordination and documentation readiness.

Do expats need a will in the UAE, and what happens if you die without one?

A will is not compulsory, but it is strongly advisable for expats. If you die without a registered will, the local courts of the emirate where your assets are held apply default inheritance rules to your estate, which are Sharia-based for Muslims. UAE legal commentators report that bank accounts, including joint accounts, can be frozen until the court determines inheritance that a surviving mother does not automatically become guardian of minor children, and that company shares become part of the estate and go through probate. Since 1 February 2023, Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 also lets non-Muslim residents choose their home-country law or the UAE civil personal status law, but a registered will remains the clearest way to name your beneficiaries, executor and guardians.

Where can non-Muslim expats register a will in the UAE: DIFC, Dubai Courts or Abu Dhabi?

Non-Muslim expats can register a will with the DIFC Courts Wills Service in Dubai, the Dubai Courts Notary Public, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), or ADGM Courts, which works in partnership with ADJD. The DIFC Courts Wills Service, which uses an English common-law framework, requires that you are not and have never been Muslim, are at least 18, and own assets in the UAE and/or have minor children residing here. DIFC registration is completed by video call, so you can register from anywhere in the world. The best route depends on your assets, family situation and budget. SecureXpats guides you through the options and coordinates registration through approved channels.

How much does it cost to register a will in the UAE?

Government registration fees depend on the registry and the type of will. The DIFC Courts publish these fees: AED 10,000 for a single Full Will (AED 15,000 for a couple's mirror wills), AED 5,000 for a Guardianship Will (AED 7,500 mirror), AED 7,500 for a Property Will (AED 10,000 mirror), and AED 5,000 for a Business Owners or Financial Assets Will (AED 7,500 mirror). Modifying a registered DIFC will costs AED 550, and DIFC fees are not subject to 5% VAT? ADJD in Abu Dhabi has published a standard will registration fee of AED 950. Legal drafting is charged separately, and fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the registry. SecureXpats offers free first advice and explains the expected fee before any work begins.

Can I appoint a guardian for my children in a UAE will?

Yes. A DIFC Guardianship Will or Full Will lets you appoint both an interim (temporary) guardian and a permanent guardian for your minor children. Under DIFC rules, the children must be residents of Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah at the time of probate for the guardianship provisions to apply, each guardian signs a Guardianship Statement, and guardians and their spouses cannot attend the will-signing appointment. This matters because, under default Sharia-based rules, UAE legal commentators note that a surviving mother does not automatically assume guardianship of her children. Other registries, including ADJD in Abu Dhabi, also allow guardians to be named in a registered will.

Is a will made in my home country valid in the UAE?

Not reliably. UAE courts have discretion over whether to uphold a will made abroad, and the DIFC Courts note that a will drafted under another jurisdiction generally has to be redrafted to meet DIFC registration rules. If you own assets in more than one country, your wills need to be coordinated, because the DIFC Courts warn that a later will made elsewhere can invalidate your DIFC will if it is not drafted correctly. A DIFC Full Will can list assets outside the UAE, but enforcement abroad is not guaranteed. Take legal advice from a licensed lawyer, and use SecureXpats for the registration and documentation steps.

Do expats need a will in the UAE, and what happens if you die without one?

A will is not compulsory, but it is strongly advisable for expats. If you die without a registered will, the local courts of the emirate where your assets are held apply default inheritance rules to your estate, which are Sharia-based for Muslims. UAE legal commentators report that bank accounts, including joint accounts, can be frozen until the court determines inheritance that a surviving mother does not automatically become guardian of minor children, and that company shares become part of the estate and go through probate. Since 1 February 2023, Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 also lets non-Muslim residents choose their home-country law or the UAE civil personal status law, but a registered will remains the clearest way to name your beneficiaries, executor and guardians.

Where can non-Muslim expats register a will in the UAE: DIFC, Dubai Courts or Abu Dhabi?

Non-Muslim expats can register a will with the DIFC Courts Wills Service in Dubai, the Dubai Courts Notary Public, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), or ADGM Courts, which works in partnership with ADJD. The DIFC Courts Wills Service, which uses an English common-law framework, requires that you are not and have never been Muslim, are at least 18, and own assets in the UAE and/or have minor children residing here. DIFC registration is completed by video call, so you can register from anywhere in the world. The best route depends on your assets, family situation and budget. SecureXpats guides you through the options and coordinates registration through approved channels.

How much does it cost to register a will in the UAE?

Government registration fees depend on the registry and the type of will. The DIFC Courts publish these fees: AED 10,000 for a single Full Will (AED 15,000 for a couple's mirror wills), AED 5,000 for a Guardianship Will (AED 7,500 mirror), AED 7,500 for a Property Will (AED 10,000 mirror), and AED 5,000 for a Business Owners or Financial Assets Will (AED 7,500 mirror). Modifying a registered DIFC will costs AED 550, and DIFC fees are not subject to 5% VAT? ADJD in Abu Dhabi has published a standard will registration fee of AED 950. Legal drafting is charged separately, and fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the registry. SecureXpats offers free first advice and explains the expected fee before any work begins.

Can I appoint a guardian for my children in a UAE will?

Yes. A DIFC Guardianship Will or Full Will lets you appoint both an interim (temporary) guardian and a permanent guardian for your minor children. Under DIFC rules, the children must be residents of Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah at the time of probate for the guardianship provisions to apply, each guardian signs a Guardianship Statement, and guardians and their spouses cannot attend the will-signing appointment. This matters because, under default Sharia-based rules, UAE legal commentators note that a surviving mother does not automatically assume guardianship of her children. Other registries, including ADJD in Abu Dhabi, also allow guardians to be named in a registered will.

Is a will made in my home country valid in the UAE?

Not reliably. UAE courts have discretion over whether to uphold a will made abroad, and the DIFC Courts note that a will drafted under another jurisdiction generally has to be redrafted to meet DIFC registration rules. If you own assets in more than one country, your wills need to be coordinated, because the DIFC Courts warn that a later will made elsewhere can invalidate your DIFC will if it is not drafted correctly. A DIFC Full Will can list assets outside the UAE, but enforcement abroad is not guaranteed. Take legal advice from a licensed lawyer, and use SecureXpats for the registration and documentation steps.

How long does it take to receive the marriage certificate?

Once all documents are in order, the certificate is issued as part of the ceremony process. ADJD aims to complete the ceremony itself in about 15 minutes. Overall timing depends on appointment availability, so we book your slot early.

Do I need to be a UAE resident to marry in the UAE?

Not in Abu Dhabi. Visitors can apply, but must attend the ceremony in Abu Dhabi.

Can we hold the ceremony remotely?

ADJD has offered virtual ceremonies by video conference. Availability and conditions are confirmed at booking, and we will tell you what applies to your case.

What are the requirements for foreign nationals to marry in the UAE?

Foreign nationals need valid passports, proof of single status and the additional documents the relevant court requires. Requirements can vary with your circumstances, and we confirm the exact list for your nationality before you apply.

What are the steps for civil marriage in Abu Dhabi?

Submit the application with your documents, receive your ceremony date by email from ADJD, then attend the ceremony and sign the marriage certificate.

What is the purpose of a prenuptial agreement in the UAE?

A prenuptial agreement sets out how assets and debts are divided if the marriage ends. It is not compulsory, but it gives both parties clear financial expectations from the start.

What should I do if I need to amend information on my marriage certificate?

Reach out to us. We will submit the relevant documents and proof to support your request for changes.

Can I use my certificate abroad?

Yes, after attestation. We can arrange attestation of your certificate for international use on request.

What is a certified true copy and when is it required?

A certified true copy is a photocopy that an authorised person has checked against the original and certified as accurate. It is commonly required for visa applications, bank account opening, company formation, university admissions and submissions to government departments and embassies.

Does a certified true copy prove my original document is genuine?

No. It confirms only that the copy matches the original. Authenticating the original itself is a different process, such as notarisation or MOFA attestation.

How long does it take to get a certified passport copy in Dubai?

Timing depends on appointment availability and the documents involved. Tell us your deadline when you request a quote, and we confirm what is possible before you commit. You can choose an online appointment or visit our office.

Who can certify a true copy in Dubai?

Authorised persons such as notaries and lawyers can certify copies, depending on the document and the receiving party. We guide you to the right route for your purpose.

Why do I need a certified passport copy in Dubai?

A certified passport copy is often required for applying for a second nationality, opening a bank account, submitting tax-related documents, buying or selling real estate and academic admissions.

Can I certify documents in languages other than English or Arabic?

Often yes. Share the document with us and we confirm whether a legal translation is needed for your purpose.

Do I need MOFA or embassy attestation as well?

Only if the copy will be used abroad or the receiving authority asks for it. Tell us where the document will be used and we confirm which steps apply.

Can I complete the process online?

Yes. You can choose an online appointment or visit our office. We confirm what to have ready before your appointment.

Where can I find notary services in Dubai?

SecureXpats is based in Business Bay, Dubai. We help individuals and businesses with notarization, POA paperwork, attestation and certified true copies, coordinating with licensed notaries public across the UAE. Visit our office or reach out online.

What is POA notarization?

It is the process where a licensed notary public confirms that a Power of Attorney was signed voluntarily by the person granting it, so it is legally recognized. We prepare your paperwork and coordinate the appointment.

Do I need to notarize a POA in the UAE?

Most POAs used for personal, property or business matters need notarization by a licensed notary public to be accepted by government departments, banks and courts. We can tell you what your specific POA requires.

Can I get notary assistance near me without visiting a court?

Yes. Searching for a POA notary near me often just means you want to skip the court queues. Private notaries in the UAE can notarize many documents outside court premises, and in some cases online. We coordinate the option that fits your document, either at our Business Bay office or remotely.

How much does a POA cost in Dubai?

The cost depends on the POA type, the number of principals, agents and assets, whether you notarize in person or online, and government fees. Send us your details and we will confirm the fee before you proceed.

How long does notarization take?

It depends on the document type and on the availability of the notary or department. Qualifying electronic cases can be completed the same day, and we keep you updated at every stage.

How long is a POA valid, and can I cancel it?

Unless a time limit is written into it, a POA generally stays valid until the principal revokes it, and it ends on the principal's death. Rules can vary by authority, so ask us about your case.

Can I arrange a POA if I live outside the UAE?

Often yes, depending on your case and the authority involved. Tell us where you are and what the POA is for, and we will explain the available route.

Will my notarized POA be in English or Arabic?

Electronically notarized POAs are generally issued in Arabic. Tell us early if you need a translation so we can plan for it.

Company Formation Dubai Free Zone and Mainland Setup

Get your business license in record time, at an unbeatable price

About Offshore Company Formation, Free Zone and Mainland Setup in the UAE

The UAE lets foreign founders own their companies outright. For most people, the hard part is not deciding to start. It is deciding where. Mainland, free zone, DIFC, ADGM and offshore each come with their own licence, rules and costs, and picking the wrong one usually means paying twice.

SecureXpats is a proud partner of Meydan Free Zone, so our clients get priority support on Meydanlicences. Across every other route, we guide you through the same process: choosing the right jurisdiction and activity, preparing and submitting your documents, and then handling visas and bank account support so you can start trading.

Why Set Up a Company in the UAE?

Here are the main reasons founders and investors choose the UAE:

100% foreign ownership for most business activities
100% repatriation of capital and profits
0% personal income tax
9% corporate tax only on profits above AED 375,000, and 0% on qualifying income for Qualifying Free Zone Persons
Digital licensing platforms across most jurisdictions
Flexible licence types for trading, services, media and holding activities

3 Simple Steps for DIFC Company Formation and ADGM Company Formation

Your UAE company formation explained in three (3) simple steps

Step 1

Initial consultation: we review your activity, budget and goals, then recommend the right jurisdiction.

Step 2

Application preparation and submission: we prepare your documents and file the application for you.

Step 3

Business license issuance: your licence is issued, and we move on to visas and banking.

Timeline

Here is the timeline for Meydan Free Zone company formation

Day 1: Application Submission

Submit your signed business setup application with all required documents to begin your Meydan Free Zone company registration.

Days 2 to 5: Review and Verification

Your chosen company name is reserved, and Meydan Free Zone reviews and approves your documents.

Day 6: Trade License Issuance

Your Meydan Free Zone trade license is issued. You receive a digital copy, so you can start business activities straight away.

Meydan Free Zone Licenses

Meydan Free Zone offers licences for over 2,500 business activities, giving you plenty of options for business setup in Dubai.

Commercial License

For trading, retail, and import and export operations, within and beyond UAE borders.

Professional License

For individuals and companies offering specialised services such as consulting, design and IT.

Media License

For digital marketing, advertising and other professionals building a presence in Dubai's media sector.

Holding License

For investors and parent companies that manage assets, subsidiaries or shareholdings, in the UAE or abroad.

1 Select your business activity

We help you narrow down your activity from a list of over 2,500.

2 Select your company name

We check that your name meets compliance requirements.

3 Submit all documents

Provide your passports, business plan and application forms.

4 Receive initial approval

This is usually granted digitally through the portal.

5 Sign incorporation documents

Complete the signing and receive your licence.

6 Apply for visas and open a bank account

The SecureXpats team supports you with both.

The Steps to Set up a Meydan Free Zone Company

Start by choosing the package that suits your activity, budget and operating needs. We cover commercial trade licences and professional service licences, and we manage package selection, documentation and submission.

Documents Required for Meydan Free Zone Company Formation

Individual Shareholder(s):

Corporate Shareholder(s):

Why Set Up with SecureXpats?

As a partner of Meydan Free Zone, SecureXpats offers clear advantages when you secure your Dubai trade license.

Priority licensing

Our team works directly with the Meydan authorities, which supports faster approvals and a smoother licensing process.

Comprehensive business solutions

We go beyond setup. Banking support, accounting and bookkeeping, and visa services all sit under one roof.

Dedicated support manager

You get one point of contact from setup through to renewals.

The team made the process of creating my Will in the UAE straightforward and stress-free. They explained all the options in detail, including the pros and cons, which helped me make an informed decision.

Joseff

I am so glad I chose this service for my Will and estate planning. They made what initially seemed like a daunting task incredibly simple. Highly Recommended.

Annabella

Excellent service! I was unsure about the best estate planning option for my situation, but the advisors were patient and thorough in their explanations. The entire process was smooth, and I left feeling confident that my family’s future is secure.

Salem Abdulla

Key Features

These are the key features of a Meydan Free Zone company.

Meydan Free Zone

One of the most thriving commercial free zones in the UAE.

Type of Company

Free zone Limited Liability Company with a minimum of one (1) shareholder, or a branch or representative office.

100% Ownership

Meydan Free Zone allows 100% foreign ownership.

Taxes

Qualifying income can benefit from 0% corporate tax. Non-qualifying income is taxed at 9% above AED 375,000. Every company must register for UAE corporate tax.

Filing Requirements

Expect annual licence renewal, proper accounting records and corporate tax filings. We can guide you on each.

Manager/Person in Charge

Each company must appoint a person in charge.

Time Zone

Strategic world time zone: GMT+4.

Paid Up Capital Requirement

No minimum paid up capital.

Trusted Partners

Our mission is to provide you with peace of mind by safeguarding your family and protecting your assets here in the UAE.

How we can Help you?

With over 15 years of experience, we help expatriates and investors set up and run businesses in the UAE.

Frequently Asked Questions

The following are some of the most commonly asked questions about company formation in the UAE.

How long does company formation in the UAE take?

It depends on the route. A Meydan Free Zone licence can be issued in about six days after you submit a complete application. A Dubai mainland licence typically takes around ten working days, with visas following afterwards. ADGM and DIFC take longer, especially for regulated activities.

Can foreigners own 100% of a UAE company?

Yes, for most business activities in the mainland and in free zones. A few strategic sectors still carry ownership rules, and we check your activity before you apply.

What is the difference between a mainland and a free zone company?

A mainland company can trade anywhere in the UAE and bid for government tenders, but it needs a physical office. A free zone company offers flexible office options and simpler setup, and it trades within the zone and internationally. Selling into the mainland needs an extra permit or a local distributor.

How much does it cost to set up a company in Dubai?

The cost of a mainland licence depends on your licence, activity, visas and office. As a guide, expect roughly AED 23,000 to 31,000 for one or two visas, before office rent. Free zone packages vary by zone and visa allowance, and DIFC and ADGM fees depend on the licence category. We share a written quote once we have reviewed your activity.

Do I need a physical office in Dubai?

For a mainland licence, yes. The authority verifies your premises before the licence is issued. Many free zones offer flexible desk or office packages, and an offshore company needs no UAE office.

Do free zone companies pay corporate tax?

Yes, they must register. Qualifying Free Zone Persons pay 0% on qualifying income, and non-qualifying income is taxed at 9% above AED 375,000. Your accountant should confirm which rate applies to your income.

What is the difference between DIFC and ADGM?

Both are international financial centres with their own common-law frameworks. DIFC is in Dubai and its financial firms are regulated by the DFSA. ADGM is in Abu Dhabi, with the Registration Authority licensing commercial firms and the FSRA regulating financial services.

Can an offshore company trade in the UAE?

No. An offshore company is a non-resident holding or international trading entity. It cannot trade with UAE customers, sponsor visas or lease UAE office space. If you need any of those, choose a mainland or free zone licence instead.

Which documents do I need to start?

Individual shareholders need a passport copy, a digital passport photo and, if they live in the UAE, a residence visa and Emirates ID. Corporate shareholders need notarised incorporation documents, a certificate of incumbency issued within the last 3 months, a Memorandum of Association and a board resolution.

Can you help with visas and a bank account?

Yes. We support visa applications and bank account opening after your licence is issued, and we also offer accounting and bookkeeping services.