What documents does an American national need to start a translation services business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United States, attested documents via US Department of State / Secretary of State, and a business plan for your translation services venture.

How long does it take for an American citizen to set up a translation services company in Abu Dhabi DED?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 3–6 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 13–23 business days.

Can I get a residence visa with my Translation Services licence from Abu Dhabi DED?

Yes, your translation services licence from Abu Dhabi DED entitles you to apply for residence visas. The number of visas depends on your office space size — larger offices qualify for more visas. Each visa costs approximately AED 4,000.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Translation Services company in Abu Dhabi Mainland?

Yes, following the recent amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for most mainland activities, including translation services. Previously, a local sponsor holding 51% was required, but this is no longer the case.

What documents do I need to set up a Translation Services business in Abu Dhabi DED?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Is Abu Dhabi Mainland good for translation services start-ups?

Abu Dhabi DED is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering capital city strategic advantage and government project access. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 12,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

What are the tax implications for a Translation Services business in Abu Dhabi Mainland?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Mainland companies are subject to the standard 9% corporate tax rate on taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Translation Services in Abu Dhabi Mainland for American nationals

MainlandProfessional

Translation Services in Abu Dhabi DED

Starting From

AED 10,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Translation Services

The UAE continues to attract American entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Abu Dhabi DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for translation services operations. Growing American business community (~50,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Abu Dhabi Mainland gives your Translation Services business access to Abu Dhabi's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, private office and excellent connectivity. The Translation Services activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up translation services businesses in Abu Dhabi Mainland since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why Abu Dhabi DED for Translation Services?

Choosing Abu Dhabi DED for your translation services business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers capital city strategic advantage, which is particularly valuable for translation services operations. Additionally, government project access ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. Operating on the mainland allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions, and you can bid on government contracts — a significant advantage over free zone entities. Office solutions start from AED 6,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Trade anywhere in UAE further enhances the appeal of Abu Dhabi DED for translation services professionals. Furthermore, growing economic diversification positions your translation services business for long-term success in the region. With Abu Dhabi continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Abu Dhabi DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For American nationals specifically, the Abu Dhabi government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large American business community.

Capital city strategic advantage

Government project access

Trade anywhere in UAE

Growing economic diversification

100% foreign ownership

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

For American entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your translation services business in Abu Dhabi DED.

Banking for American Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your translation services company in Abu Dhabi DED: US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand American business structures.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

Document attestation for American nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in United States, (2) Attestation by US Department of State / Secretary of State, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to translation services businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by US Department of State / Secretary of State

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Detailed business plan or activity description

5Completed application form for trade licence

6Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

7Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address

8Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	10,000
Visa Package (per visa)	4,000
Ejari Office	12,000
Co-Working	6,000
Private Office	25,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 26,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your translation services business plan and the best Abu Dhabi DED licence options for American nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the translation services licence application to Abu Dhabi DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official Abu Dhabi DED trade licence within 3–6 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.

Start Operations

Your translation services business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Since the UAE's 2020 Commercial Companies Law amendment, American nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including translation services.

Translation Services in Other Jurisdictions

DIC

From AED 15,000

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750

DSO

From AED 12,000