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Service Guide

Local Service Agent (LSA)

A UAE-national Local Service Agent for 100% foreign mainland setups — agent appointment, the notarised LSA agreement, government liaison, and the annual-fee track, coordinated with your company formation.

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What a Local Service Agent is — and isn't

0% shareholding

The LSA is a UAE national named on the licence with no shares in the company — they do not own any part of the business.

No management or banking authority

The LSA provides government liaison and sponsorship only — no management, no signatory rights, and no access to company funds.

No liability

The LSA bears no liability for the company's debts, obligations, or conduct. Ownership and control stay 100% with you.

How the LSA track works

01

Confirm whether an LSA is required

An LSA is needed for certain mainland setups — notably Abu Dhabi mainland and some professional/civil activities — when shareholders are 100% foreign. We confirm this against your activities and jurisdiction.

02

Appoint and vet the agent

We appoint a vetted UAE-national LSA and collect their documents (Emirates ID, Family Book, signature card, IBAN, personal stamp).

03

Notarise the LSA agreement

The standard LSA terms — 0% shares, government-liaison scope only, no liability, the annual fee, and a substitution clause — are formalised and notarised (ADJD for Abu Dhabi).

04

Government liaison

The LSA liaises with the relevant departments on the company’s behalf throughout setup, alongside your PRO.

05

Annual renewal

The LSA agreement renews annually (1-year term, 60-day notice to terminate). We track the renewal so it never lapses.

Frequently asked questions

Does an LSA own part of my company?

No. The Local Service Agent holds 0% of the shares and has no management, signatory, or banking authority. Ownership and control remain 100% with you. The LSA provides government liaison and sponsorship for setups that require a named UAE national on the licence.

When do I actually need an LSA?

Most Dubai mainland commercial and professional activities allow 100% foreign ownership with no LSA. An LSA is typically required for Abu Dhabi mainland and certain professional/civil activities. We confirm whether your specific setup needs one before anything is filed.

How is the LSA fee structured?

The LSA fee is a fixed annual amount, proposed in writing and payable yearly in advance — not a share of profits. It is itemised in your formation quote so there are no surprises.

Is the LSA separate from company formation?

The LSA track is arranged as part of your UAE company formation — appointment, the notarised agreement, and the annual-fee track run alongside your setup. Start with Company Formation and we route you onto the LSA track automatically when your jurisdiction and activities require it.

Need an LSA for your mainland setup?

Start your company formation and we route you onto the LSA track automatically when your jurisdiction and activities require it.

Start Company Formation
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