UAE Business Setup

Start Your Business in the UAE Without the Complexity

End-to-end company setup, licensing, and visa solutions across Mainland, Free Zone, and Branch jurisdictions. Digital-first workflows and 100% compliance.

Compare Setup vs Representation
Key Advantages

Why Set Up in the UAE?

A globally recognized business hub offering 100% foreign ownership, robust infrastructure, and strategic access to international markets.

100% Foreign Ownership

Operate with full ownership in both Free Zones and Mainland for most commercial and industrial activities.

Strategic Location

Access global markets with world-class logistics, ports, and aviation infrastructure.

Tax Efficiency

Benefit from a competitive 9% Corporate Tax rate and numerous exemptions within designated Free Zones.

Execution Roadmap

The UAE Setup Journey

A clear, structured approach to establishing your business in the UAE market, from initial consultation to operational readiness.

01

Determine Jurisdiction & Activity

Consultation

Select the optimal jurisdiction (Mainland or Free Zone) and specify the precise commercial activities to be licensed.

02

Initial Approvals & Trade Name

Initial Stage

Secure the trade name reservation and initial approval from the relevant economic department or free zone authority.

03

Drafting & Legalization

Documentation

Draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Local Service Agent agreements if applicable, followed by notarization.

04

Office Space & Tenancy

Facility

Finalize a physical office lease or flexi-desk agreement (Tawtheeq/Ejari) required for license issuance.

05

License Issuance

Licensing

Submit all final documents and government fees to receive the official Trade License and Certificate of Incorporation.

06

Post-Setup & Visas

Operations

Establish the company immigration file, process investor/employee residency visas, and open a corporate bank account.

Service Portfolio

End-to-End Setup Services

We don't just register your company; we ensure you are fully operational, compliant, and ready to do business in the UAE.

Company Registration

End-to-end management of the incorporation process, including naming approvals, MOA drafting, and ultimate license issuance.

Visa & PRO Services

Processing for investor visas, employment visas, dependent visas, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests.

Corporate Banking Assistance

Guidance on local banking compliance and introductions to our network of UAE partner banks for account opening.

Regulatory Compliance

Registration for Corporate Tax, VAT, Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) declarations, and Economic Substance Regulations (ESR).

Route Comparison

Alternative Market-Entry Routes

Explore other approaches to operating and managing your business in UAE.

Active Route

Build your own local entity.

Business Setup

Register a company, obtain the applicable licences, and establish a direct presence in your target market.

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Enter first where eligible.

Representation

Eligible businesses may use representation for market development, liaison, and related market-entry activities — subject to applicable requirements.

Keep the business moving after entry.

Compliance Services

Ongoing administrative coordination, licence renewals, government documentation, and workforce administration after setup.

FAQ & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about business setup, mainland vs free zone licensing, and foreign ownership in the UAE.

Yes. Following recent changes to the Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for over 1,000 commercial and industrial activities in the UAE Mainland. Free Zones have always allowed 100% foreign ownership.

Ready to Start Your UAE Business?

Get a customized market entry plan based on your specific requirements.