How the UAE Government System is Structured

The UAE is a unique state with a federal structure, where both federal and emirate-level authorities operate. The main difference from CIS countries is that most government functions are delegated to private franchise companies. Therefore, to successfully conduct business, it is essential to understand who to contact and how the system works.

Get a consultation

How the Government System Works in the UAE

The UAE is a federal state with a unique model where many functions are delegated to private franchise centers. To do business effectively, it is important to know where to apply, which authorities regulate processes, and how to avoid mistakes.

Get a consultation Request a call back

Key Principles

Ministries rarely work directly — services are provided through certified centers.
There is competition between service providers — you can choose another center.
There are both federal authorities and emirate-level bodies — powers vary.

Main Government Structures

DED (Dubai Economic Department) — Mainland licenses, trade, tourism.
MOHRE — labor relations, franchises TASHEEL/TADBEER/TASJEEL.
DLD (Dubai Land Department) — property registration, leases (EJARI).
Immigration (GDRFA, AMER) — visas, Emirates ID, residency.
FTA (Federal Tax Authority) — VAT, Corporate Tax, FATCA.
MOFA — apostille, international documents.
DEWA / FEWA — utilities (water, electricity).
Customs — import certification and clearance.
Central Bank — KYC, AML, banking licenses.
Municipality — sanitation, permits for cafés, salons, clinics.

Ministries Without Intermediaries

Police, prosecution, and courts.
Tax Authority (FTA).
MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
Ministry of Finance — AML, ESR, FIU.

Need help dealing with UAE government authorities?

MIRAD will guide you through document preparation, applications, and interactions with ministries and service centers without mistakes.

Book a consultation

HowTo: Work with Government Authorities in the UAE

Define your request (license, visa, taxes, real estate).
Check which authority is responsible: DED, MOHRE, FTA, DLD, or Municipality.
Confirm if the authority has a certified service center (e.g., AMER, TASHEEL).
Collect documents and choose a center with good reputation.
If rejected — try another center or escalate to HQ.
Avoid conflicts or public complaints: they may lead to fines.

What MIRAD Does

Clarify which authority regulates your case.
Assist with document submission to DED, MOHRE, FTA, DLD, etc.
Choose the right center (TASHEEL, AMER, Trusty).
Speed up processes through experience and connections.
Help avoid mistakes and penalties.

Why MIRAD

7+ years of experience dealing with UAE authorities.
Direct work with DED, FTA, Municipality, MOHRE, Immigration.
Support at every stage — from licensing to taxation.
Knowledge of each emirate’s specific requirements.

FAQ: UAE Government System

❓ Can I apply directly to a ministry?
✅ Usually no — services are delegated to TASHEEL, AMER, Trusty, etc.

❓ What if a center rejects my request?
✅ You can go to another certified center — competition is allowed.

❓ Is a Free Zone license required for government services?
❌ No. Government registration and key permits are only possible via Mainland or federal authorities.

Get an analysis of your business tasks and a solution from an expert

Popular Services

On this page

Not sure which format is right for you?

Get a free consultation with a MIRAD expert and choose the optimal strategy for your UAE status

Get consultation Request a call back