To start a company in Morocco as a UAE investor, you must register your business with the Moroccan Commercial Register, obtain a “Negative Certificate” (to reserve your company name), set up a local bank account, deposit the minimum share capital, and complete registration with the tax and social security authorities. These steps can typically be completed within 1–2 weeks with the help of a local consultant or law firm, and Morocco’s New Investment Charter offers generous tax incentives and profit repatriation for foreign investors.

Why Morocco Appeals to UAE Investors

Morocco is quickly becoming a hub for international and Gulf investors because of:

Strategic location as a gateway to Europe and Africa
Political and economic stability with projected GDP growth of 3.6–4% by 2026
Tax incentives, including corporate tax reductions (15% for small companies) and initial tax holidays
Government-backed support, like the New Investment Charter and One-Stop Shops for business setup
Free repatriation of profits and double tax treaties, including with the UAE
High-potential sectors: renewable energy, tourism, automotive, aerospace, agribusiness, and e-commercedoing company in morccoInvestment in Morocco.

Step-by-Step Process to Start Your Business

1. Choose Your Business Structure for UAE Investors

Most foreign investors select:

SARL (LLC) – simplest, limited liability, no minimum capital for most businesses.
SA (Joint Stock Company) – ideal for larger projects, regulated under Law 5-96.
Branch office – if expanding an existing UAE company, faster than a subsidiary.

2. Obtain a Negative Certificate for UAE Investors

This certificate reserves your company name and can be done online via the Moroccan Office of Industrial and Commercial Property (OMPIC).

3. Prepare and Notarize Documents for UAE Investors

Documents (articles of association, identification, UAE company documents if applicable) must be notarized and apostilled.

Foreign investors can freely transfer capital into Morocco and open a business account, with funds repatriation rights secured under Moroccan law.

5. Register with the Commercial Register for UAE Investors

This legalizes the company and provides a company number.

Required before hiring employees or trading.

7. Secure Necessary Licenses for UAE Investors

Depending on your sector (renewable energy, real estate, import/export, etc.), you may need special permits.

Tax Incentives for UAE Investors

Corporate tax rates:
- 15% for companies with revenue under MAD 3M (~$314,000)
- 30% for most businesses
- Special rates for industrial and export-oriented companies
Exemptions for the first 5 years in Free Zones (e.g., Tangier Med)
No restrictions on repatriating profits

Recommended Sectors for UAE Investors

Renewable energy (solar & wind) – backed by government subsidies
Automotive & aerospace manufacturing – Morocco is Africa’s top hub
Agribusiness & food processing – citrus, olive oil, and exports
Tourism & hospitality – Marrakech, Agadir, and luxury development
E-commerce & logistics – driven by rising internet penetration

FAQs

1. Can a UAE investor own 100% of a Moroccan company?

Yes, except for specific sectors like agriculture and fishing, where restrictions may apply.

2. How long does the process take?

With a consultant, 1–2 weeks for a SARL. More complex entities like SAs take longer.

3. Can profits be sent back to the UAE?

Yes, Morocco allows full repatriation of capital and profits under its investment laws.

4. Are there tax treaties between Morocco and the UAE?

Yes, which prevents double taxation and ensures tax efficiency.

5. What is the easiest entry route for a UAE company?

If testing the market, use a branch office or Employer of Record (EOR) to avoid full incorporation costsdoing company in morcco.

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