Set up your company in Dubai without the guesswork

Your business setup partner in Dubai
Layerz helps entrepreneurs and companies start and run a company in Dubai. We advise on the right jurisdiction, secure your trade licence, arrange visas and corporate banking, and keep you compliant with accounting, tax and regulatory requirements. One team, fixed pricing and a dedicated advisor from your first question to your renewal.
500+
Companies formed across Dubai mainland and free zones.
Company formation in Dubai handled end to
end, with fixed pricing and
one advisor who stays with you
from licence to renewal.
One team for every step of your setup
Most founders juggle a formation agent, a PRO, an accountant and a bank contact. With Layerz it is one advisor, one point of contact and one fixed price covering licence, visas, banking and compliance.
Free consultationSaturday, August 17
What our clients say about
workingwith Layerz.
Business setup in Dubai, answered
The questions people ask us most, before they start a company in Dubai.
Contact us Contact us See all FAQs-
1. How much does it cost to set up a business in Dubai?
Company setup starts from around AED 4,888 all in for a UAE free zone licence and around AED 12,000 for a Dubai mainland company, depending on your activity, number of visas and office type. Layerz gives a fixed quote up front, so there are no surprises later. -
2. How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?
Most Dubai companies are formed in 3 to 10 working days once your documents and business activity are confirmed. Free zone setups are usually the fastest; mainland and regulated activities can take longer when external approvals are required. -
3. Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Dubai?
Yes. Foreign investors can own 100 percent of a free zone company, and 100 percent of most mainland activities since the 2021 reforms. A short list of strategic activities still needs an Emirati partner or agent, which we confirm for your activity before you commit. -
4. What is the difference between mainland and free zone in Dubai?
A mainland licence lets you trade anywhere in the UAE and bid for government contracts. A free zone licence gives 100 percent ownership, tax incentives and simple setup, but trades mainly within its zone or abroad. The right choice depends on where your customers are. -
5. Do I need a physical office to get a trade licence?
Not always. Most free zones accept a flexi-desk or shared-desk package, which is enough for a licence and a few visas. Mainland licences need a registered tenancy (Ejari), and the space required scales with your visa quota. -
6. Can I get a UAE residence visa when I set up a company?
Yes. A company licence lets you sponsor a UAE residence visa for yourself, your staff and your dependants. The number of visas depends on your office type and jurisdiction. Investors may also qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa. -
7. Do I have to pay tax on my Dubai company?
The UAE charges 9 percent corporate tax on annual profits above AED 375,000, and 0 percent below that, plus 5 percent VAT once turnover passes AED 375,000. Most small companies pay little or nothing early on. Layerz keeps you registered and compliant with the Federal Tax Authority.
Sources
Highlights from the news
What the region's media says about setting up in Dubai, and where Layerz has been featured.
All news All news-

Getting a residence visa for a newborn in Dubai
A newborn in Dubai needs a residence visa within 120 days of birth to avoid fines, sponsored by a resident parent.
Read more -

How to sponsor your parents for a UAE residence visa
Sponsoring parents in the UAE needs a higher income, medical insurance and a deposit, with conditions set by the immigration authorities.
Read more

