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.
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.
The UAE Setup Journey
A clear, structured approach to establishing your business in the UAE market, from initial consultation to operational readiness.
Determine Jurisdiction & Activity
ConsultationSelect the optimal jurisdiction (Mainland or Free Zone) and specify the precise commercial activities to be licensed.
Initial Approvals & Trade Name
Initial StageSecure the trade name reservation and initial approval from the relevant economic department or free zone authority.
Drafting & Legalization
DocumentationDraft the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Local Service Agent agreements if applicable, followed by notarization.
Office Space & Tenancy
FacilityFinalize a physical office lease or flexi-desk agreement (Tawtheeq/Ejari) required for license issuance.
License Issuance
LicensingSubmit all final documents and government fees to receive the official Trade License and Certificate of Incorporation.
Post-Setup & Visas
OperationsEstablish the company immigration file, process investor/employee residency visas, and open a corporate bank account.
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).
Trusted by Global Enterprises
“Plus UAE handled our mainland setup seamlessly. Their deep understanding of local compliance saved us months of delays.”
Sarah J.
Operations Director
“From licensing to visas, the entire process was transparent and perfectly coordinated.”
Ahmed M.
CEO
“”
Abu Dhabi DED
UAE Business Setup Checklist
Download our comprehensive checklist to understand the typical documentation, timeline, and compliance requirements for setting up your business in the UAE.
UAE Setup Checklist
A step-by-step guide to the documentation, approvals, and structural requirements for company formation in the UAE.
- Jurisdiction Selection
- Licensing Requirements
- Timeline & Costs
- Compliance Essentials
Alternative Market-Entry Routes
Explore other approaches to operating and managing your business in UAE.
Build your own local entity.
Business Setup
Register a company, obtain the applicable licences, and establish a direct presence in your target market.
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.
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.