UAE Branch Registration — TFZ
Expand without
starting over
A branch lets your existing company operate in the UAE under its own name, 100% owned by the parent.
Carry your established track record, contracts and brand with you. TFZ registers branches for foreign and UAE companies and advises on the decision that comes first: branch or subsidiary?
Ask which structure fits →What a Branch Is — and Isn't
A branch is a legal extension of its parent company, not a separate legal entity. It operates under the parent's name, conducts activities that mirror the parent's business, and its obligations are ultimately the parent's obligations.
What it brings
- No new shareholders or share capital
- Parent's history and financials support bank account opening and major tenders
- Group reporting stays consolidated
What it constrains
- The parent carries liability for the branch
- The branch generally can't pursue activities the parent doesn't perform
Branch vs Subsidiary
Branch
Suits companies entering the UAE to deliver the same services they're known for — contractors, consultancies, tech firms, trading houses — especially where clients or tenders want the parent's balance sheet behind the contract.
Subsidiary
A new UAE company owned by the parent — suits ventures that need liability separation, local flexibility or different activities. Tax treatment, audit requirements and banking each differ between the two.
TFZ's advisory background means you get this analysis first — many clients who ask for a branch leave with a better answer.
How TFZ Registers Your Branch
Attestation and legalisation of the parent's documents — certificate of incorporation, memorandum, board resolution, power of attorney — through the relevant embassy and UAE ministries.
Approvals from the Ministry of Economy and the licensing authority — mainland or free zone.
Appointment of the branch manager under a properly drafted power of attorney.
Post-licensing: immigration file, visas, corporate tax registration and bank account.
Foreign branches must also file audited financials, which our accounting team handles ongoing. Branches of foreign companies are taxable on their UAE profits.
Everything You Need to Know About Branch Registration
From ownership and timelines to tax and cross-jurisdiction branches, here are answers to the questions we hear most.
Bring your business here, reputation intact
Ask TFZ whether a branch or subsidiary serves you better — and let us build it.