Decree No. 13/2024: Establishing the Unified Digital Platform for the Establishment of Companies in the Emirate of Dubai
14 Dec 2024
1. Overview of the Decree
The Decree No. 13/2024 establishes a unified digital platform, known as the "Digital Window", aimed at simplifying and organizing the procedures for establishing companies in the Emirate of Dubai. It seeks to streamline the process of obtaining licenses, permits, and approvals, thereby enhancing the investor's experience in Dubai.
2. Objectives of the Decree
2.1 Creating an Investment Environment
The Decree aims to create a conducive investment environment by integrating the efforts of licensing authorities and competent authorities. It ensures seamless establishment and licensing of companies, enabling them to practice their economic activities efficiently.
2.2 Development of a Unified Digital Platform
The Digital Window is established to promote the investor's experience, providing specific channels for acquiring information and obtaining necessary services.
2.3 Regulating Issuance of Licenses and Approvals
The Decree regulates the issuance of licenses, permits, and approvals in the Emirate according to clear, defined, and simplified rules and procedures.
2.4 Addressing Obstacles
It addresses obstacles faced by investors during the setup and operation of their businesses.
2.5 Enhancing Coordination
The Decree enhances coordination and electronic connectivity between licensing and competent authorities, supporting Dubai's digital transformation.
2.6 Unifying Efforts
It unifies efforts to avoid duplication of procedures, requirements, or conditions for practicing economic activities.
2.7 Providing Valueadded Services
The Decree aims to provide valueadded services to meet and exceed investor expectations while practicing economic activities.
3. Key Provisions
3.1 Issuance of Licenses, Permits, and Approvals
Applications for issuance, renewal, modification, and cancellation of licenses are submitted through the Digital Window. Licensing and competent authorities issue, renew, amend, or cancel licenses and related permits through the platform in accordance with applicable regulations and legislation.
3.2 Establishment and Development of the Digital Platform
The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is responsible for establishing, operating, managing, supervising, and developing the Digital Platform in coordination with relevant authorities. The DET regulates the process of obtaining necessary documents through this platform.
3.3 Preparation of the Manual
The DET prepares a Manual in coordination with competent entities, detailing procedures, conditions, requirements, and timeframes for issuing and processing applications related to economic activities.
4. Impact on Other Laws
4.1 Federal DecreeLaw No. 32/2021 on Commercial Companies
The Decree complements the Federal DecreeLaw No. 32/2021 by streamlining the company registration and licensing process.
4.2 Dubai Law No. 13/2011 on Regulation of Economic Activities
The Decree further enhances the regulatory framework for economic activities by introducing a digital process.
4.3 Dubai Law No. 9/2022 on Regulation of Digital Services
The Decree aligns with the provisions on digital services, promoting the digital transformation in regulatory processes.
4.4 Special Development Zones and Free Zones Legislation
The Decree incorporates digital processes for registering and licensing companies within special development zones and free zones, including Dubai International Financial Centre.
5. Benefits to Investors
5.1 Simplification of Procedures
The Decree simplifies procedures for obtaining licenses and approvals, reducing administrative burdens on investors.
5.2 Transparency and Efficiency
The unified digital platform enhances transparency and efficiency in the licensing process, providing investors with a clear understanding of requirements and timelines.
5.3 Cost and Time Savings
By digitizing the process, investors save both time and costs associated with physical paperwork and manual processes.
5.4 Enhanced Investor Experience
The streamlined process improves the overall experience for investors, encouraging more business activities in the Emirate.
5.5 Access to Valueadded Services
Investors gain access to additional services that cater to their needs, supporting their business operations effectively.
Conclusion
Decree No. 13/2024 marks a significant step towards modernizing the business environment in Dubai through digital transformation. By establishing a unified digital platform, the Decree not only streamlines the company establishment process but also aligns with existing legislation to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework that benefits investors and supports economic growth in the Emirate.