Setting up a company in Syria from the UAE in 2026 requires navigating a regulatory environment that has evolved significantly since 2020. Foreign investors from the UAE now have clearer pathways to establish legal entities in Damascus, though the process involves multiple government touchpoints. This guide covers every step from initial documentation to final licensing.
LLC Structure
Most popular for UAE investors. Min capital SYP 5M, full foreign ownership under Investment Law No. 18.
Branch Office
Suitable for UAE companies wanting direct presence. Requires parent company documents attested in UAE.
Processing Time
LLC registration takes 8-12 weeks. Branch offices faster at 6-8 weeks with proper PRO support.
Company Types Available
Under Syrian Investment Law No. 18 of 2021, UAE investors can register either an LLC or a Branch Office. LLCs allow full foreign ownership with 2-25 shareholders. Branch offices are extensions of the parent company and require a local service agent.
| Feature | LLC | Branch Office |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Ownership | 100% | 100% |
| Min. Capital | SYP 5M | SYP 10M |
| Shareholders | 2-25 | 1 (parent) |
| Liability | Limited to capital | Parent liable |
| Tax Rate | 28% corporate | 28% corporate |
| Audit Required | Annual | Annual |
| Local Sponsor | Not required | Required |
Registration Process
Document Preparation
Attest UAE documents at MOFA then Syrian Embassy in Abu Dhabi. Include MOA, articles, passport copies.
Commercial Registry
Submit to Damascus Commercial Registry. Reserve name, file MOA, obtain preliminary registration number.
Tax & Social Security
Register with Finance Ministry for tax ID. Register employees with Social Security within 30 days.
Publication
Publish formation notice in local newspaper. Cost approx SYP 50,000-100,000.
ℹ️ Note: Documents attested in the UAE must be legalized by the Syrian Embassy in Abu Dhabi before they are valid in Damascus. Allow 2-3 weeks for this process.
Required Documents
Key documents: attested passport copies of shareholders, notarized Memorandum of Association, board resolution (for branches), bank reference letter, and a detailed business plan describing proposed activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register a company remotely from Dubai?
Yes. Vesta Solutions can act as your authorized representative via power of attorney. We handle document submission, follow-ups, and license collection.
What are annual compliance requirements?
Annual audit by a licensed Syrian auditor, quarterly social security declarations, tax return filing by March 31, and commercial registry renewal each year.
Is there minimum capital for service companies?
Service companies need min SYP 5M. Trading companies may need SYP 10-25M depending on the specific license category.
⚠️ Important: Syrian tax law requires proper accounting in Arabic. Non-compliance can result in fines up to SYP 500,000.
Resources
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Laila Al-Hassan (ليلى الحسن)
Senior Content Strategist. Based in Damascus with 8 years experience in Syrian business content and market analysis.
