Dubai

Setting up an iGaming company in Dubai involves a clear, structured process broken into three key steps. Each phase addresses specific requirements tailored to your chosen jurisdiction and business structure. Let’s walk through these steps in detail.

Step 1: Consultation and Eligibility Assessment

The journey begins with an eligibility assessment to ensure your iGaming business aligns with Dubai’s regulatory framework. During this stage, MGL’s legal team evaluates your business model, target audience, and operational structure to determine the most suitable path for incorporation.

Key aspects such as ownership structure, funding sources, compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, and gaming-specific factors (like software providers, payment systems, and player protection measures) are thoroughly reviewed. This evaluation also considers whether your business activities fit the criteria for Dubai’s Free Zones, Mainland jurisdictions, or Offshore options.

The assessment is completed promptly, and you’ll receive a detailed report outlining your incorporation options and timelines. This report serves as a roadmap, helping you avoid unnecessary delays during the registration process.

Step 2: Documentation and Regulatory Submission

Once eligibility is confirmed, the focus shifts to preparing and submitting the required documentation to Dubai’s regulatory authorities. This includes drafting essential company documents, agreements, AML/KYC policies, and a business plan tailored to your gaming operations - all designed to meet the necessary regulatory standards.

Typically, this documentation process takes about a week, depending on the complexity of your business structure. After finalisation, the documents are submitted to the relevant authorities, such as the Department of Economic Development for Mainland companies or the respective Free Zone Authority for Free Zone incorporations. This step ensures your iGaming business complies with all regulatory submission requirements in Dubai’s gaming sector.

Step 3: Licence Approval and Operational Launch

The final step involves securing all necessary licences and permits for your iGaming operations. This includes obtaining your trade licence, completing company registration - often requiring collaboration with entities like the Dubai Chamber of Commerce - and acquiring any additional approvals specific to gaming activities.

During this phase, MGL works closely with Dubai authorities to streamline the approval process and address any outstanding requirements. Licence approval generally takes around two weeks, although timelines may vary depending on the jurisdiction and complexity of your application.

Once all approvals are in place, MGL provides full onboarding support to ensure your iGaming business is operational and compliant from day one. This systematic approach allows for a smooth market entry while ensuring adherence to all regulatory standards.

Once you've streamlined your incorporation process, selecting the right entity structure becomes a key step in aligning with your business goals. Dubai offers three primary entity types for iGaming companies, each tailored to different operational needs and strategies. Here's what you need to know about these options to set the right foundation for your gaming business.

Free Zone Company

A Free Zone company is a popular choice for international iGaming operators. It allows 100% foreign ownership and requires a physical office within the designated free zone. These companies can engage in various activities, including commercial trade, consultancy, and eCommerce. While they can operate internationally and within their specific free zone, they cannot conduct business directly on the UAE mainland without special arrangements. Free Zone companies also provide visa eligibility for both shareholders and employees, making them a practical option for businesses looking to establish a physical presence.

Mainland Company

Mainland companies offer the flexibility to operate across the entire UAE and work directly with government entities and local markets. Thanks to recent regulatory changes, 100% foreign ownership is now allowed for LLCs [1]. These companies can engage in a wide range of sectors but must comply with specific requirements, such as maintaining a physical office that meets the Department of Economic Development's regulations. For Dubai-based companies, tenancy contracts must also be registered through Ejari. Mainland companies are subject to a 9% corporate tax on taxable income exceeding AED 375,000 (around AUD 157,000), and registration with the local Chamber of Commerce is mandatory.

Offshore Company

Offshore companies are designed for international operations, offering advantages like tax efficiency and asset protection. These entities allow 100% foreign ownership without requiring a local sponsor or a physical office in the UAE. Instead, the address of the registered agent serves as the company's official address. Offshore companies don't require a minimum paid-up share capital and are ideal for activities such as holding shares, managing overseas investments, and providing international consulting services. However, they cannot engage in direct business activities on the UAE mainland.