United Arab Emirates–Turkey Investment Relations
The UAE and Turkey signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2023, one of Turkey's most significant trade deals. A bilateral investment protection treaty provides Emirati investors with legal safeguards. Bilateral trade between the UAE and Turkey has grown to over $20 billion annually, reflecting deep economic ties.
Emirati investment in Turkey has surged following the normalization of relations and the 2023 CEPA. UAE sovereign wealth funds and private investors are active in real estate, finance, hospitality, energy, and infrastructure sectors. Istanbul and Ankara are primary investment destinations. The UAE-Turkey Business Council actively promotes bilateral investment.
Can Emirati Citizens Open a Company in Turkey?
Yes. Citizens of United Arab Emirates can form a company in Turkey with 100% foreign ownership. Turkish law does not require a local partner or Turkish shareholder. Emirati nationals receive equal treatment under the Turkish Commercial Code, with the same rights and obligations as Turkish-owned companies.
There are no sector restrictions specific to Emirati investors — the vast majority of business activities are open to foreign companies without special permissions.
Visa & Work Permit Information
UAE citizens can enter Turkey without a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa-free access simplifies business travel and company formation activities. Work permits for UAE nationals follow the standard Ministry of Labour process, typically taking 4–6 weeks.
Foreign shareholders who do not intend to work or reside in Turkey do not need a work permit or residence permit to own a company. However, if you plan to actively manage your Turkish company from Turkey, a work permit is legally required.
Recommended Company Type
The most common structure among Emirati investors is the Joint Stock Company (A.Ş.).
LLC (Ltd. Şti.)
- Min. 50,000 TRY capital
- 1–50 shareholders
- Simple management structure
- Best for SMEs and service businesses
Joint Stock (A.Ş.)
- Min. 250,000 TRY capital
- 1+ (no limit) shareholders
- Board of directors required
- Best for large-scale or IPO-track businesses
Branch Office
- No separate legal entity
- No minimum capital
- Extension of parent company
- Best for companies testing the market
Requirements for Emirati Citizens
- Valid passport from United Arab Emirates
- Turkish tax identification number (vergi numarası)
- Registered business address in Turkey
- Notarized Articles of Association (in Turkish)
- Minimum share capital deposit at a Turkish bank
- Power of attorney (if forming remotely without visiting Turkey)
Formation Process
- Consultation — Choose your company type, define business activities, and plan your structure
- MERSIS Pre-Registration — Enter company details in Turkey's central registry system
- Articles of Association — Draft, notarize, and sign (or via power of attorney)
- Bank Account & Capital Deposit — Open a Turkish bank account and deposit at least 25% of capital
- Trade Registry — File with the local Trade Registry Office
- Tax & Social Security — Register with the tax office and SGK
- Work Permits — Apply if foreign managers or employees will be based in Turkey
The process typically takes 5–10 business days once all documents are prepared. If documents need apostille or consular legalization from United Arab Emirates, allow additional time.