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

Comprehensive Setup Services

From choosing your legal structure to issuing commercial licences, we manage every aspect of your UAE company formation.

Company Registration

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

PricingCustom Quote based on Jurisdiction

Visa & PRO Services

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

PricingPer Visa Basis

Corporate Banking Assistance

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

PricingIncluded with Setup

Regulatory Compliance

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

PricingAnnual Retainer
Client Success

Built on Trust & Precision

We partner with government authorities, leading free zones, and Tier-1 UAE banks to ensure your business setup is fast, compliant, and cost-effective.

Global Tech LLC
Regional Logistics Hub
Horizon Trading Co.
Free Resource

UAE Business Setup Checklist

Download our comprehensive checklist to prepare your documents, compare jurisdictions, and plan your company formation step by step.

FREE CHECKLISTPDF

UAE Business Setup Checklist

A step-by-step guide covering document requirements, jurisdiction comparisons, cost breakdowns, and post-setup compliance in the UAE.

  • Mainland vs Free Zone Comparison
  • Document Checklist by Activity
  • Licensing Cost Breakdown
  • Post-Setup Visa & Banking Steps
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.

Currently Viewing

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.

UAE Setup FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about setting up a business in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

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?

Talk to our company formation specialists to identify the best jurisdiction and license for your business goals.

Free Consultation

Ready to start your business in the UAE?

Talk to a senior advisor — no obligation, same-day response.

Talk to an Expert