Securing an office space in Dubai is a good move for businesses looking to establish a presence in a thriving international hub. For a smooth rental process, it’s essential to understand the documentation required by Dubai’s real estate and business regulations.
Knowing what to prepare can help avoid delays and ensure compliance, whether you’re setting up in the busy Business Bay, JLT, or Downtown Dubai. These requirements can vary depending on the property type and leasing entity, but having a checklist for Dubai office rent documents ensures you’re prepared for each step.
Memorandum of association (MOA) or articles of association (AOA):
The Memorandum of association (MOA) or articles of association (AOA) outlines the structure and ownership of your company, including shareholders and their respective shares. This document is important for establishing the legal identity of your business and is commonly required during the office rental process, especially for businesses with multiple shareholders.
Passport copies of shareholders and authorized signatories:
Landlords may request copies of the passports of the company’s shareholders and any authorized signatories who will sign the lease agreement. This is required to verify the identity of the individuals involved in the business and the leasing contract. Some landlords might also ask for UAE residence visa copies of these individuals if available, though this may vary by property.
Power of attorney (if applicable):
If someone other than a shareholder or a director is signing the lease on behalf of the company, a Power of Attorney (POA) is needed to legally authorize them to act on the company’s behalf. The POA should be notarized and sometimes attested to ensure legal compliance, especially when dealing with governmental procedures or major contracts.
Initial approval or no-objection certificate (NOC):
In certain cases, especially in specific free zones, businesses might need an initial approval or no-objection certificate (NOC) from the relevant authority to proceed with office leasing. This document shows that the regulatory body has no objections to the business renting office space within Dubai.
Bank statements or financial records (Optional):
While not always required, some landlords may request recent bank statements or financial records to assess the financial health of your business. This step is usually applicable to high-value leases or when dealing with high-profile office locations.
