FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Explore our FAQ section for clear answers to the most common questions about company formation, licensing, sponsorship, and doing business in the UAE.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Explore our FAQ section for clear answers to the most common questions about company formation, licensing, sponsorship, and doing business in the UAE.
When was Proxima Eight founded?
Proxima Eight was established by a group of international business consultants to help entrepreneurs launch and scale global companies, with a core presence in the UAE. Our team brings decades of combined experience in business setup, compliance, and cross-border operations.


Do you speak my language?
Absolutely. Our multicultural team serves clients from around the world and communicates in English, Arabic, Russian, Ukrainian, Tagalog, and several other major languages. We speak your language — in every sense.


Which jurisdictions does Proxima Eight work with?
We support company formation across all major UAE free zones, as well as mainland and offshore jurisdictions. Beyond the UAE, we assist with business structuring in Europe and key tax-friendly regions globally.


How many businesses has Proxima Eight supported?
Our team has been involved in the successful formation and support of hundreds of businesses across the UAE and internationally — from solo entrepreneurs to multinational structures.


How can I reach Proxima Eight?
We’re available via:
Email: info@proximaeight.com
Phone / WhatsApp: +971568428765
Or just leave us a message via the contact form on our website.

Anantara Downtown Business Tower, 23rd Floor, Business Bay, Dubai - UAE

How do I start the visa process?
Once your establishment card is issued, our visa specialists will guide you through the next steps. They’ll inform you about the required documents and coordinate each stage of the application to ensure a smooth process.


Can I move my company to another free zone?
Currently, transferring a company from one free zone to another is not permitted. However, you can register a branch of your existing company in a different free zone if expansion is needed.


What documents do I need to open a UAE bank account?
To open a corporate bank account in the UAE, you will typically need:
  • Original company incorporation documents
  • CVs of shareholders and directors
  • A clear business activity summary
  • Additional documents depending on the bank’s internal compliance policies
We also provide bank account setup support upon request.


What are the costs involved in opening a bank account?
Opening a bank account independently is usually free of charge. However, most banks require a minimum balance to be maintained. If you prefer assistance, our team can help facilitate the process with our banking partners. Contact us for support options.


How can I collect my company documents?
Once your trade license is issued, we will notify you via email. You can then arrange a pickup appointment with your account manager or request digital copies, depending on your preference.


What is the process for renewing my trade license?
You’ll receive a renewal reminder from your account manager approximately 90 days before expiration. Our team will coordinate the entire renewal process once you confirm the preferred timeline.


How do I renew my UAE visa?
Visa renewal involves a medical fitness test and updating your Emirates ID. Once your test results are issued, we’ll guide you through the remaining steps. Please ensure your passport has at least 7 months of validity and three blank pages.

Can my local partner take control of my business?
Only if the company is not structured correctly. At Proxima Eight, we advise clients on corporate structuring strategies and implement legal mechanisms that ensure you retain full operational and financial control over your business — regardless of shareholding structure.


What happens if my local partner passes away?
If your local sponsor is an individual, their 51% stake may be inherited by a legal heir, who may or may not wish to continue the nominee arrangement. To avoid this uncertainty, we offer corporate nominee structures that provide long-term stability and eliminate succession risks.


Can foreigners own 100% of a mainland company in the UAE?
Yes — in many sectors, full foreign ownership is now permitted. Our consultants can evaluate your business activity and determine if 100% ownership is available in your case.


What if I want to change my local partner?
If your current partner is an individual, you’ll need to negotiate new terms independently. However, if your company is under a Proxima Eight corporate sponsorship, we offer a smooth and structured exit process with a clear transfer mechanism and minimal disruption.


Can my UAE mainland company buy property?
Yes, UAE mainland companies are permitted to purchase both residential and commercial property in approved zones.


If I have a 51% local partner, can I still maintain full control?
Yes — with the correct legal structuring, it's possible to retain full decision-making power and financial control even with a local partner holding majority shares on paper. Proxima Eight specializes in designing secure and compliant shareholder frameworks tailored to your needs.
What documents are required for trade licence renewal?
To renew a trade licence the following documentation is required:
  1. A signed copy of the terms and conditions
  2. A signed price list
  3. A signed application form
  4. A signed office lease agreement (if applicable)
  5. The Shareholder’s updated documents (passport and visa copies)


What documents are required for new visa application?
To apply for a new visa the following documentation is required:
  1. The signed visa application form
  2. A passport copy (holding 7 months’ validity with 3 empty pages)
  3. Documents to show current visa status
  4. A copy of the valid company license
  5. A copy of the valid Establishment / Immigration card
  6. A signed employment contract
  7. A copy of a University degree (if applicable, attested, and translated)
  8. Passport photographs (white backgrounds, passport sized, and high resolution)


What documents are required for renewal visa application?
To apply for a visa renewal the following documentation is required:
  1. The signed visa application form
  2. A passport copy (holding 7 months’ validity with 3 empty pages) with UAE residence visa
  3. The original medical fitness test report showing negative results for the tested diseases
  4. A copy of the Emirates ID card renewal registration form
  5. A copy of the valid company licence
  6. A copy of the valid Establishment / Immigration card
  7. A signed employment contract
  8. A copy of a University degree (if applicable, attested, and translated)
  9. Passport photographs (white backgrounds, passport sized, and high resolution)


How long does it take to process a licence renewal?
The licence renewal process will take 2-7 working days to renewed.


How long does it take to process a new and renewal visa application?
A new visa application will require 2-6 weeks whilst a visa renewal will require only 5-15 working days to complete. It should be noted that these timeframes are approximations only and may be expedited. Visa issuance can be delayed or rejected due to Government security approvals.


How long does it take to process a dependant’s visa?
A dependant’s visa will require approximately 1-3 weeks to process.
It should be noted that this timeframe is an approximation and may be expedited. Visa issuance can be delayed or rejected due to Government security approvals.


How do I change the name of my company?
To change your company name you must first come up with a new suggested company name and we will seek approval from the licensing authority/jurisdiction. Upon availability of the name and the approval an advert must be placed in a local newspaper notifying this change (a legal notice of company name change). We also require signed amendment forms and all of the original company documents must be returned.


How can I sell my company?
To sell your company you will need the Immigration pre-approval of the new owner(s), to return all original company documents and have a signed sale of shares forms between the buyer and seller.
It should be noted that other requirements may be applicable subject to jurisdiction of incorporation or application. Requirements are subject to change from time to time with or without prior notice. Please speak to a member of the Relationship Management Department to find out more.


What documents are required for a dependant’s visa?
To apply for a dependant’s visa the following documentation is required:
  1. The dependant’s signed residence visa application form
  2. A copy of the sponsor’s valid passport
  3. A copy of the sponsor’s valid UAE residence visa
  4. A copy of the dependant’s valid passport
  5. Documents that show current visa status
  6. The sponsor’s original Emirates ID card
  7. The original EJARI registration certificate and original tenancy agreement or title deed showing the sponsor as tenant/owner
  8. The sponsor’s original salary certificate (issued by the licensing authority or sponsor)
  9. The sponsor’s original marriage certificate (attested and translated, if not in English or Arabic language)
  10. Dependant’s passport photographs (white backgrounds, passport sized, and high resolution)
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