Cost depends on the jurisdiction, licence type, business activity and how many visas you need. Free zone packages usually start lower than mainland. We give you a fixed, itemised quote before you commit, with government fees shown separately.
FAQ
Answers to your questions about setting up in Dubai
Cost, ownership, timelines, visas and tax, explained in plain terms.
Setting up a company in Dubai takes about 5 to 10 working days for a straightforward free zone licence, with 100 percent foreign ownership and costs that depend on the jurisdiction, activity and visa count. The answers below cover cost, mainland against free zone, ownership, timelines, visas, banking, corporate tax and renewals, with the authorities that handle each step.
Who issues a Dubai business licence?
A mainland licence is issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, while a free zone licence is issued by the free zone authority, such as DMCC, IFZA or Meydan. Residence visas and Emirates ID run through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship. Corporate tax and VAT are administered by the Federal Tax Authority at 9 percent and 5 percent respectively.
How do I use this FAQ?
Each question below answers one common concern about Dubai company formation in plain terms, with the real figures and the authority responsible. Start with cost and the mainland against free zone choice, then read ownership, timelines, documents, office requirements, banking, tax and renewals. For a figure specific to your activity and visa needs, use the cost calculator or ask an advisor for a fixed quote.
Sources
- Federal Tax Authority, corporate tax tax.gov.ae
- UAE Government, free zones u.ae
Setup from
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Common questions
Frequently asked questions about Dubai setup.
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1. How much does it cost to set up a company in Dubai?
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2. Should I choose mainland or a free zone?
Free zones give you 100% ownership, tax efficiency and fast setup, which suits consultancies, trading and holding companies. Mainland lets you trade directly anywhere in the UAE and work with government entities. We recommend based on your activity, customers and growth plans rather than on what is easiest to sell. -
3. Can a foreigner own 100% of a Dubai company?
Yes. Free zone companies have always allowed full foreign ownership, and most mainland activities now allow it too. A small number of strategic activities still require a local partner, and we confirm this for your specific activity before you pay anything. -
4. How long does company formation take?
A straightforward free zone setup can be ready in around 5 to 10 working days once your documents are in order. Mainland companies and regulated activities such as finance, healthcare or education take longer because of external approvals. We give you a realistic timeline at the start. -
5. What documents do I need?
For most setups you need passport copies for every shareholder, passport photos, a proposed company name and a short description of your business activity. Some activities and nationalities require extra documents such as attested degrees, a CV or a bank reference. -
6. Do I need a physical office?
Not always. Many free zones offer flexi-desk packages that satisfy the licence and visa requirements. Mainland companies generally need a leased office with an Ejari tenancy registration. We arrange whichever option your licence requires. -
7. Can you open a corporate bank account for me?
We prepare a bank ready application, match you to the banks most likely to approve your profile and support you through compliance and KYC. The bank makes the final decision, but proper preparation is what usually decides the outcome. -
8. What taxes will my company pay?
The UAE has 9% corporate tax on taxable profits above the threshold, and 5% VAT if your turnover requires registration. There is no personal income tax. Qualifying free zone companies may access a 0% rate on qualifying income. We handle registration and filing for both. -
9. What happens at renewal?
Trade licences renew every year. We track your renewal dates, prepare the paperwork and renew your licence, Ejari and visas before they lapse so you avoid fines and visa complications.
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