Do You Have More Questions?
We’re here to help! Whether you’re looking for more information about our services or need guidance on the best solutions for your business, our team is ready to assist you.
+971 55 378 0092
Support for Your Business
FAQ
General Questions
Starting a business in the UAE involves a few essential steps. First, identify your business activity, which will determine the type of license you need (commercial, industrial, or professional). Next, choose a jurisdiction—Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore—based on your business needs. Once you select your legal structure (LLC, sole proprietorship, or branch office), proceed with obtaining initial approvals, submitting registration documents, and securing your business license. You will also need to open a corporate bank account, apply for necessary visas, and hire PRO services for smooth documentation.
The cost of setting up a business in Dubai depends on various factors like the jurisdiction, business activity, and license type.
- Mainland Setup Costs: Range from AED 10,000 to AED 30,000, including licensing, office space, and related services.
- Free Zone Setup Costs: Start from AED 5,750 and can go up to AED 20,000, depending on the Free Zone and business package.
- Additional Costs: Office rent, visa fees, and PRO services may add to the total cost.
Setting up a business in a UAE Free Zone is straightforward and cost-effective:
- Choose a Free Zone: Select one that suits your business activity.
- Decide on Business Activity & Structure: Options include FZE (single shareholder) or FZCO (multiple shareholders).
- Submit Registration Documents: Obtain initial approvals.
- Receive Your License: Set up a flexi-desk or physical office.
- Apply for Visas: Complete visa processing for yourself and employees.
Free Zones offer 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified processes.
Yes, foreigners can set up a business in Dubai with 100% ownership, particularly in Free Zones and certain Mainland sectors. The recent amendments to the UAE’s commercial laws have made it easier for expatriates to start and fully own businesses without a local sponsor.
The cheapest business licenses in the UAE can be found in Free Zones, offering low-cost options like:
- Freelance License: Starting from AED 5,750.
- E-commerce License: Available from AED 7,500.
- Trading License: Starts from AED 8,000. These licenses provide cost-effective solutions for startups and small businesses, along with benefits like tax exemptions and simplified business processes.
To set up your business in Dubai:
- Identify Your Business Activity & License Type: Choose from commercial, professional, or industrial licenses.
- Select a Jurisdiction: Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore, based on your business requirements.
- Register Your Company: Submit necessary documents and get initial approvals.
- Obtain a License: Finalize your trade license.
- Open a Bank Account & Secure Visas: Set up a corporate account and process visas for yourself and staff.
Yes, you can own 100% of your business in Dubai. Free Zones offer complete foreign ownership across various business activities. Additionally, recent legal changes allow 100% foreign ownership for many Mainland activities, providing more opportunities for expatriates to have full control over their businesses.
Yes, you can start a business in Dubai without a local sponsor, especially in Free Zones and for specific Mainland activities. The UAE’s new business laws allow 100% foreign ownership for a wide range of business types, eliminating the need for a local sponsor in many cases.
Dubai is an excellent destination for starting a business due to its strategic location, investor-friendly policies, and zero personal and corporate income taxes. The city offers robust infrastructure, excellent connectivity, and access to a diverse consumer base, making it an ideal hub for business growth.
The UAE has introduced a citizenship program targeting investors, skilled professionals, and exceptional talents. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and be nominated by UAE officials or royal family members. However, obtaining long-term residency, such as the 10-year Golden Visa, is more common and accessible for expatriates looking for stability in Dubai.