Types of business setup company in Dubai
There are three main types of business setup company recognized in Dubai under UAE law. Each structure offers different opportunities for business setup, operational scope, and geographic presence, all depending on your goals and licensing requirements
Free Zone Company
Onshore company formation with global market access.
100% FOREIGN OWNERSHIP FOR INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS SETUP
Full foreign ownership is allowed for companies conducting international operations. However, there are restrictions when it comes to domestic commercial activity within the UAE market – such activity may require a local distributor or agent.
FREE INTERNATIONAL TRADE, EXPORT & REEXPORT RIGHTS
A business setup in a UAE free zone allows for unrestricted global trade, export, and re-export. Companies can conduct wholesale trading in the UAE through authorized distributors or intermediaries, ensuring compliance with local trade license regulations.
UNRESTRICTED SERVICES & OPERATIONS WITHIN FREE ZONES
Companies can perform services and execute contracts within the free zone territory and internationally without additional approvals, a major advantage for firms targeting cross-border business setups.
UAE RESIDENCY VISAS FOR SHAREHOLDERS & EMPLOYEES
A free zone company formation includes eligibility to sponsor residence visas for shareholders and staff. However, businesses must meet economic substance regulations and demonstrate real activity to remain compliant.
Mainland Company
Unlimited business flexibility in any industry within and outside the UAE.
100% FOREIGN OWNERSHIP FOR LLC’s – NO LOCAL PARTNER REQUIRED
Most business activities under an LLC company setup in Dubai are available with full foreign ownership, meaning you don’t need a local Emirati partner. Enjoy full operational control while staying compliant with the UAE’s business setup laws.
SOME PROFESSIONAL LICENSE SETUP WITH LOCAL AGENT
If you’re forming a professional company (Sole Establishment or Civil Company), you’ll need to appoint a local service agent. But don’t worry – they’re not shareholders and won’t interfere in business operations.
TRADE FREELY – SERVICES, MANUFACTURING & INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION
Mainland businesses are authorized to conduct free trade, offer services, and establish production, both within the UAE and on international markets. All you need is a valid trade license.
SIMPLIFIED VISA PROCESS & UAE TAX RESIDENCY
Shareholders and employees can benefit from faster visa approvals and qualify for UAE tax residency certificates. Plus, local banks love mainland companies – expect better access to corporate banking.
Offshore Company
Offshore company formation – structure & ownership privacy.
COST-EFFECTIVE TOOL FOR GLOBAL OPERATIONS & PRIVACY
An offshore company set up in the UAE is a strategic and affordable solution for managing international transactions, building corporate structures, and concealing ultimate beneficial ownership (UBO) when needed.
ACTING AS A SHAREHOLDER IN LOCAL OR INTERNATIONAL COMPANIES
Offshore entities can serve as shareholders in new UAE-based companies or entities incorporated abroad, making them ideal for layered ownership strategies.
PROPERTY OWNERSHIP IN APPROVED REAL ESTATE PROJECTS
Offshore companies are allowed to own real estate in specific designated developments within the Emirate of incorporation, especially in freehold zones.
VISA LIMITATIONS AND BANKING RESTRICTIONS APPLY
Offshore entities are not eligible for UAE residence visas and may face limitations in opening local bank accounts due to their non-resident status.
Tax Benefits
✓ TRN Number
✓ UAE Tax Residency
✓ Reputable Jurisdiction
Benefits of a business setup company in Dubai
Government Guarantees
The UAE offers investor protection, ensuring equal opportunities for foreign and local entrepreneurs. ll.
Data Privacy & Confidentiality
UAE laws ensure strict confidentiality for company owners, safeguard personal and corporate information under local data protection rules.
Financial Freedom & Comfort
No currency controls, free flow of capital, and simplified KYC procedures for transactions in AED (dirham).
BUSINESS SETUP COMPANY IN DUBAI
What can we do for you?
Full-Service Support for Company Formation and Post-Formation Services
01
Jurisdiction & Legal Structure Selection
We analyze your business goals and choose the optimal UAE jurisdiction and legal form based on local regulations
02
Tailored Business Model Planning
We define your growth strategy, assess legal aspects, and match your activity with the right trade license.
03
Company Formation & Licensing
Fast incorporation with mainland (DED) or free zone registration. We’re a licensed registrar in multiple UAE zones.
04
PRO Services for Business
We represent your company in the UAE government departments, handle residence visas, and renew all licenses and permits.
05
Outsourced Support Services
Cut overhead costs with admin, HR, tax, and accounting support from SORP — no need for a full in-house team.
06
Corporate Bank Account Opening
We help you open UAE corporate bank accounts quickly by working directly with top banks and understanding compliance requirements.
BUSINESS SETUP DUBAI FAQ’s
To begin with, choose your business activity and decide on the right jurisdiction — mainland or free zone. After that, reserve your trade name and submit your application to the respective authority. Most importantly, we manage all approvals and documentation to ensure a smooth business setup in Dubai.
At the present time, corporate tax in the UAE is 0% for profits up to AED 375,000, and 9% for anything above that. Additionally, every company is required to register the Corporate Tax Certificate for earned income within three months after company formation.
To summarize, the cost starts from AED 7,499 to AED 13,999 for a free zone company; meanwhile, the Mainland business setup starts around AED 19,999 + VAT.
Certainly, in free zones, expats can own 100% of their business. On the mainland, many activities now also allow full foreign ownership without a local partner, depending on the activity. To point out, book a free consultation to learn about the mainland activities with 100% foreign ownership
Indeed, you can — provided you have a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer and your visa sponsor permits it. At the same time, many free zones offer greater flexibility for setting up a side business, and several now allow you to obtain a licence without needing an NOC at all for business setup in Dubai.
A limited liability company in a UAE free zone is often the simplest and most cost-effective way to start, especially for solo entrepreneurs and service providers.
