Do you still need a local sponsor in the UAE?
Since 2021, foreign investors can own 100% of a mainland company for most commercial and industrial activities, so many businesses no longer need a local sponsor. However, certain strategic activities, some professional licences, and setups in particular emirates can still require a UAE national shareholder, a local service agent (LSA) or a UAE-resident manager.
We first check whether your activity actually needs a sponsor, because often it does not. If it does, we introduce vetted UAE nationals or corporate sponsors, document the arrangement properly and keep it compliant with Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) disclosure rules. This sits alongside our trade licence assistance.
Arrangements we provide
The right structure depends on your activity, legal form and emirate.
Local service agent (LSA)
A UAE national who represents your professional company with government departments, with no shareholding or say in management, for a fixed annual fee.
UAE national shareholder
For activities that still require local participation, with agreements that set out profit rights, management control and exit terms clearly.
Resident manager / director
A qualified UAE-resident individual to act as manager or director where your structure or the authority requires one.
What's included in our Local Sponsorship & Nominee Services service
- Activity check: is a sponsor needed?
- Vetted UAE national sponsors & agents
- Local service agent agreements
- Protective side & management agreements
- Fixed annual fee, no profit share
- UBO register & disclosure support
- Sponsor changes & replacements
- Ongoing compliance support
Our Local Sponsorship & Nominee Services process, step by step
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Requirement check
We confirm whether your activity, legal form and emirate need a local sponsor, LSA or resident manager.
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Sponsor matching
We introduce a suitable, vetted UAE national or corporate sponsor for your business.
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Agreements
Lawyer-reviewed agreements set out control, profit rights, fees and exit terms.
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Licensing & support
We complete the licensing paperwork and support any later changes to the arrangement.
Documents typically required
Exact requirements depend on your jurisdiction, nationality and activity. We send you a personalised checklist after your consultation.
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- UAE visa or entry stamp (if applicable)
- Proposed business activities
- Company documents for corporate shareholders
- Existing licence and MOA (for sponsor changes)
*Timelines and figures are indicative and based on current UAE regulations, which can change. We confirm the latest requirements before you apply.
Why choose First Base for Local Sponsorship & Nominee Services?
Your control protected
Clear legal agreements on management, profits and exit.
Vetted partners only
Sponsors we know, with a track record of reliable support.
No surprises
Fixed, transparent annual fees agreed in writing upfront.
Want the full picture? Learn about First Base, estimate your setup with our business setup cost calculator or read our latest UAE business guides.
