Business Setup with Nominee Director in UAE, Full Guide by RAS Corporate Advisors

If you're planning to start a business in the UAE but want to keep your identity private or simplify the company structure, using a nominee director might be the right solution. This guide will help you understand what a nominee director is, how this structure works, why many investors choose it, and how to set it up correctly without putting your control at risk.

For those exploring this option, you can also learn more about the process through nominee director and shareholder services in the UAE.

What Is a Nominee Director?

A nominee director is someone listed on paper as the director of your company, but they don’t actually run it. You, the real owner (known as the UBO—Ultimate Beneficial Owner), stay in charge behind the scenes by signing legal agreements that give you full control.

This method is completely legal in the UAE when it’s done properly. It's commonly used by international businesspeople, wealthy individuals, family-run businesses, and entrepreneurs who want privacy or legal protection. Knowing how a nominee director works—and understanding the typical nominee director fee—helps you stay in control while following the rules.

Who Should Use a Nominee Director in the UAE?

Using a nominee director makes sense if you want to keep your identity private as the owner, need a local UAE resident on the license for legal or banking purposes, work in sensitive areas like crypto, finance, or defense, are setting up a holding company, or want an easier setup for banking, tax, or visa planning.

It’s especially helpful when opening a bank account or working within certain free zones. Nominee director fee discussions are part of our consultation.

Where Can You Use Nominee Directors in the UAE?

Nominee services are available across various jurisdictions in the UAE:

• Mainland (DED): Useful for holding companies, family-run businesses, or gaining local market access.

• Free zones: Areas like DMCC, IFZA, Meydan, SPC, and RAKEZ are ideal for trading, crypto, and consulting businesses.

• Offshore: Jurisdictions like RAK ICC and JAFZA Offshore are best for full privacy and minimal public records.

Each jurisdiction has different rules depending on your business goals.

Protecting the UBO: Privacy & Compliance

UAE law requires business owners to declare their identity (UBO) to the licensing authority. However, this information is not made public. A nominee director helps keep your name out of public view while ensuring that your company stays compliant with the law by maintaining proper nominee details.

The full setup includes a signed nominee agreement, a power of attorney (POA), board resolutions, and other necessary legal paperwork. We make sure everything is handled safely and clearly, so your rights are protected and it’s always clear what the nominee director’s role is.

Why Banks Prefer Nominee Structures

When opening a corporate bank account in the UAE, most banks require a UAE resident director, an Emirates ID and visa, and a clear ownership structure.

By appointing a nominee director, you meet these requirements while keeping your privacy. Legal tools like a POA ensure you remain in full control. 

We also assist you with opening your bank account, managing KYC and compliance documents, and communicating directly with the bank on your behalf.

What Is a Nominee Agreement (And Why It Matters)?

The nominee agreement is a legal contract that outlines what the nominee can and cannot do. It protects the real business owner and ensures they maintain full control. It also includes nominee details that define the nominee’s identity, responsibilities, and limitations.

This agreement includes clear limits on the nominee’s role, legal clauses that protect your rights, and a POA that allows you to make operational decisions.

We customize this agreement based on your business type, industry, and risk profile.

Benefits of Using a Nominee Director in the UAE

Let’s look at the key benefits of having a nominee director in the UAE.

• Privacy: Your name stays out of public records.
• Control: You keep full control through legal agreements.
• Banking: A UAE-resident nominee helps meet bank requirements.
• Tax Setup: Makes global profit planning easier.
• Flexible Setup: Works well for group or cross-border companies.
• Lower Risk: Separates personal and business liabilities.

These advantages make nominee director services a smart and secure choice for anyone looking to protect their privacy and manage their UAE business smoothly.

How to Set Up a Company with a Nominee Director in UAE

Here’s a quick look at how the setup process works:

• • Step 1: Consultation & Jurisdiction Choice: We review your needs and suggest the best option. Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore. If you're still exploring your options, you can browse our full business setup services in the UAE to get a clearer idea.

• • Step 2: Draft Legal Documents: Our legal team prepares the nominee agreement, POA, and related documents.

• • Step 3: Get Your License: We file everything with the proper UAE authority.

• • Step 4: Visa and Bank Account: We provide a UAE-resident nominee director, handle immigration, and assist with banking.

• • Step 5: Stay Compliant: We support your renewals and ensure you meet all compliance requirements.

Why Work with RAS Corporate Advisors?

We’ve helped hundreds of clients create secure and private business setups in the UAE. Our nominee director services are tailored for investors who want privacy without losing control. We prepare every legal document according to UAE laws and ensure your banking and licensing run smoothly.

Whether you’re new to the UAE or reorganizing, we offer a reliable nominee solution that fits your needs.

Looking to protect your identity while running a legal business in the UAE?

Our nominee director service is built for that.

We take care of the structure, paperwork, and bank setup so you can stay focused on growing your business.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

What is a nominee director?
A nominee director is officially listed as a company director but doesn’t actually run the business. The real owner controls everything through legal agreements.

What is the nominee director fee in the UAE?
Fees vary depending on your company’s type and risk profile. They usually cover compliance, paperwork, and banking support.

Why would someone use a nominee director in the UAE?
To stay anonymous, meet legal or banking needs, and simplify setup—especially for holding companies and sensitive industries.

Is using a nominee director legal in the UAE?
Yes, it’s legal if all proper agreements and documents like the POA are in place.

What is included in nominee details?
Details usually include the nominee’s name, Emirates ID, visa status, and their responsibilities per the agreement.

What does the nominee director meaning imply for business owners?
It means the nominee is a figurehead while the actual owner stays in control behind the scenes.

Can I remove or change a nominee director later?
Yes. With the right legal setup, replacing a nominee director is simple and secure.

Does every company in the UAE need a nominee director?
No. It’s optional and mainly used by those who need privacy or meet certain legal or banking conditions.