How to Get National Investor Number in the UAE?

19Dec, 21

How to Get National Investor Number in the UAE?

In the rapidly evolving business landscape of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), having a National Investor Number (NIN) is crucial for individuals and businesses looking to invest, trade, or participate in the financial markets. With outstanding infrastructure, high-quality hospitality, and numerous attractions, the city provides a favourable environment for investors. In addition to real estate and commodity investment options, Dubai has a strong stock market. This unique identifier simplifies transactions and ensures compliance with the regulatory framework. In this blog post, we will dive deep into obtaining a NIN in the UAE, shedding light on what it is, its significance, and how you can get one.

What is a National Investor Number (NIN)?

The National Investor Number, often called NIN, is a unique identification number issued by the UAE's Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA). It is a pivotal requirement for anyone looking to participate in the UAE's financial markets, including stock trading, mutual funds, and other investment activities. The NIN records an individual's or entity's economic activities and holdings, facilitating efficient and transparent financial transactions. When a person buys or sells shares, the National Investor Number transfers shares to and from the investor's account. When the investor opens an account with a broker, they will be asked for the NIN to pay future transactions automatically as soon as the trade is completed.

It includes:

  1. Unique Identifier: A NIN is a unique number or code assigned to individuals or entities within a particular country.

  2. Identification: Government agencies, financial institutions, or other organizations use it primarily for identification and record-keeping purposes.

  3. Personal Information: A NIN may contain or be linked to personal information such as name, date of birth, or other relevant data.

  4. Security: It helps enhance safety by reducing identity theft and fraud, as each person or entity has a distinct NIN.

Benefits of having a NIN number:

Some benefits of having a NIN number are as follows:

  1. Access to Financial Markets: With a NIN number in the UAE, you can invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other financial instruments.

  2. Streamlined Investment Process: Having a NIN number simplifies the investment process by providing a standardized identification system for investors.

  3. Investor Protection: The NIN number helps regulatory authorities track and monitor investor activities, ensuring a safer investment environment.

  4. Enhanced Transparency: It promotes transparency in the financial markets by facilitating accurate record-keeping and reporting of investor transactions.

Why is the National Investor Number necessary?

In the UAE, due to the exciting career prospects, safety, and great living conditions, Dubai is often considered a worldwide hub where people from all over the world. With outstanding infrastructure, high-quality hospitality, and numerous attractions, the city provides a favourable environment for investors. In addition to real estate and commodity investment options, Dubai has a strong stock market. Moreover, the stock market in Abu Dhabi has also performed significantly over the years due to mergers and expansion of companies coupled with growing investments by market players in the past decade.

Speaking specifically for the Dubai Financial Market, a Shariah-compliant exchange governed and regulated by the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority. It provides a user-friendly trading platform that equips investors with the knowledge and resources to make informed investing decisions. In 2010, the Dubai Financial Market and Nasdaq Dubai merged their operations, allowing investors access to more assets and investment alternatives. It also allowed them to use a single Investor Number, or NIN, to access Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and Nasdaq Dubai listed securities. The DFM now provides you with the opportunity and freedom to trade securities, bonds, and Sukuk in Dubai. (A Sukuk is an Islamic financial certificate that works in the same way as equities but adheres to Sharia Law.) To be able to trade in Dubai, an investor or an individual must first fulfil a few basic tasks.

Following are some more reasons why is the NIN number significant:

  1. Legal Requirement: Investors must have an NIN number to engage in financial activities in the UAE.

  2. Verification: The NIN number allows authorities to verify the identity of investors and ensure compliance with regulations.

  3. Investor Tracking: It enables regulatory bodies to monitor investor activities and safeguard the integrity of the financial markets.

Why Do You Need a NIN in the UAE?

Following are some reasons why Do You Need a NIN in the UAE:

  1. Regulatory Compliance: The SCA mandates that all local and foreign investors possess an NIN to engage in trading or investment activities within the UAE. Compliance is essential to avoid legal complications.

  2. Transparent Financial Transactions: The NIN ensures that financial transactions are transparent and traceable, promoting market integrity and investor confidence.

  3. Access to Investment Opportunities: Many investment opportunities, including initial public offerings (IPOs) and mutual funds, require investors to have a NIN.

Now that we understand the importance of having a NIN let's explore how to obtain one.

How to Get a National Investor Number (NIN) in the UAE

The below-mentioned procedure states how to get a NIN Number in the UAE:

Determine Eligibility

Before applying for a NIN, you must ensure that you are eligible to obtain one. NINs are typically issued to:

  • UAE residents and citizens

  • Foreign individuals and entities planning to invest in UAE financial markets

Gather Required Documents

To initiate the NIN application process, you will need to gather the following documents:

  • Valid passport or Emirates ID (for individuals)

  • Valid trade license and other relevant business documents (for entities)

  • Proof of address (utility bill, tenancy agreement, etc.)

Choose the Appropriate Authority

The NIN application process can be carried out through two main channels:

  • Online: Visit the SCA's official website and follow the instructions for online application. This method is usually quicker and more convenient.

  • In-Person: Alternatively, you can visit the SCA's offices or a designated service centre to complete the application in person. Make sure to bring all the required documents.

Fill Out the Application

You must complete the NIN application form online or in person. Provide accurate information, and double-check all details before submission.

Pay the Fee

There is typically a fee associated with obtaining a NIN. Ensure you make the payment as required. Prices may vary depending on your specific circumstances.

Await Approval

After submitting your application and payment, you must wait for the SCA to process your request. This can take some time, so be patient.

Receive Your NIN

Once your application is approved, you will receive your NIN. Please keep this number secure; you will need it for all your financial activities in the UAE.

To get a NIN number online in the UAE, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) of the UAE's official website.

  2. Locate the NIN registration area and click on it.

  3. Enter your personal information on the online application form, including your name, passport number, phone number, and address.

  4. Submit the required supporting paperwork, including a copy of your passport, Emirates ID, and a utility bill confirming your address.

  5. Online, submit the application form and the required documentation.

  6. Pay the NIN registration fees that are due.

  7. Watch for your application's confirmation. The SCA will examine your application and, if additional documentation is required, may ask for it.

  8. After accepting your application, you will get your NIN through email or SMS.

Documents required to apply for National Investor Number

The steps and documentation required to apply for a national investor number are discussed as follows:

Completion of the Investor Data Entry Application form

The investor must complete an online investor data entry application form and print and sign it before submission.

Gathering together the following supporting documents:

For Individual/Joint Account

  • A true copy of a valid Passport.

  • A valid copy of UAE Family Book/Marsoom for UAE Nationals only.

  • A valid copy of your National ID (if available).

  • A true copy of the Residential Visa (if available).

Additionally, particular documentation is required based on:

If it's a joint account, an enclosed letter signed by both partners should be mailed to DFM verifying the account type, whether it'll be administered by both partners or one of them ("and" / "or") A/C.

If the applicant is a minor (under the age of 21),

  • The guardian's (Father's) signature is required on the application.

  • A true copy of the guardianship order issued by the court must be produced in the case of a guardian other than the Father.

If a Representative applies, they must produce a true copy of a valid Power of Attorney that meets the following requirements:

  • A duly authenticated and valid Power of Attorney good for at least three years from the date of issuance and a copy of the Representative's ID.

  • A Power of Attorney issued from other countries authenticated by the official authorities and the UAE embassy in those countries.

For Company/Institution/Brokerage Firm/Government/Bank/Fund

  • A True Copy of a valid Memorandum of Association, Trade License, and Commercial Register.

  • Authorized signatory letter issued by the company, duly authenticated.

  • A true copy of the authorized signatory's valid Passport and National ID.

Additionally, particular documentation is required based on:

  1.  A legally authenticated licensing letter from the Central Bank must be submitted in case of a fund. The certified paperwork from the official authorities must be connected to funds outside the UAE.

  2. A legally validated license letter from the Central Bank must be submitted for banks. The certified documentation from the official authorities must be attached to banks outside the UAE.

  3. If a brokerage firm, a true copy of the UAE Securities Commodities Authority's (SCA) or Dubai Financial Services Authority's (DFSA) Brokerage License (DFSA).

  4. In the case of a sole proprietorship, an undertaking letter will be sent to DFM specifying that the Investor Number will not be formed in their name.

  5. Companies and institutions licensed outside the UAE must have official documentation authenticated by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the UAE embassy, including trade licenses, commercial registers, and memorandums of association.

  6. In the case of a Representative, a true copy of a valid Power of Attorney that meets the following criteria must be provided:

  • A Power of Attorney that has been officially authenticated and is valid for at least three years from the date of issuance, as well as a copy of the Representative's ID.

  • Official authorities and the UAE embassy in certain countries must authenticate a Power of Attorney obtained from another country.

Submission of the above documents

The documents gathered above, and the application form must be submitted via either of the options below:

  • CSD desk on the DFM Trading Floor

  • Broker

  • Email

  • Fax

Conclusion

The National Investor Number (NIN) is vital to your financial journey in the UAE. It ensures compliance with regulatory standards and simplifies your investment activities. Whether a local or a foreign investor, obtaining an NIN is straightforward as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and provide the required documents. Getting a National Investor Number in the UAE is often complicated since paperwork and other documentation are time-consuming. Dhanguard helps its clients to apply for a National Investor Number or provides guidance on How to apply for a National Investor Number in the UAE by offering assistance in paperwork through its team of experts and a vast network of professionals. If you require any services regarding the National Investor Number in the UAE, please contact us, and we will gladly assist you. Do connect with us to avail of the type of services we offer.