Business Setup
How to start a business in Dubai: the steps in order
How to start a business in Dubai, in order: activity, mainland or free zone, legal form, trade name, approvals, office, licence, visas, bank and tax.
Business setup & Golden Visa in Dubai
Company formation, residency visas, PRO services and investment guidance from one Dubai team. A written quote and a realistic timeline before you commit.
- Mainland & free zone licences
- 10-year Golden Visa applications
- Reply within one business day
Everything you need to start in Dubai
Licences, visas and paperwork first. Investment and technology when you're ready to grow.
See all servicesBusiness & visas
Investment
Websites & technology
Straight answers from enquiry to licence
Moving a business to Dubai means a lot of paperwork and a lot of conflicting advice. We keep it simple: what you need, what it costs, and how long it takes.
- A written quote first
- Government fees, our fees and timelines in writing before you pay anything.
- One consultant, start to finish
- The person you speak to on day one stays with you until your licence and visas are issued.
- Compliance built in
- Licences, visas and filings prepared against current UAE regulations, and renewals handled when due.
- Beyond the licence
- Bank account support, office options, websites and marketing when you're ready to trade.
How it works
Consultation
A free call to understand your activity, budget, visa needs and timeline.
Proposal
We recommend a jurisdiction and licence, and send a written quote.
Paperwork
We prepare and submit documents, follow up with authorities and keep you updated.
Licence & visas
You receive your licence, establishment card and visas, plus help with banking.
Mainland or free zone?
We compare costs, permitted activities and visa quotas across jurisdictions, then set up where your business fits best.
Selecting a jurisdiction highlights its location on the map.
Guides for founders and investors
All insightsGolden Visa
The complete guide to the UAE Golden Visa
Who qualifies for the UAE's 10-year Golden Visa, what it gives you and your family, and how the application works, from eligibility check to Emirates ID.
Tax & Compliance
UAE corporate tax: what small businesses and free zone firms need to know
Who must register for UAE corporate tax, the 0% and 9% rates, free zone conditions, Small Business Relief, EmaraTax registration and the records to keep.
Questions founders ask first
Short answers to the questions we hear on almost every first call.
How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?
It depends on the jurisdiction (free zone or mainland), your business activity and whether any outside approvals are needed. A free zone licence is often issued within a few working days once your documents are complete. Mainland setups usually take longer. We give you a realistic timeline once we understand your plans, but the final timing depends on the authorities.
What is the difference between a free zone and a mainland company?
A mainland company is licensed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and can trade directly with customers anywhere in the UAE, as well as internationally. A free zone company is licensed by its free zone authority. It usually trades within its free zone or internationally, and selling directly to the UAE market generally needs extra arrangements, such as a mainland distributor, a branch or a permit. Both are subject to UAE corporate tax (9% on taxable income above AED 375,000), but qualifying free zone income can be taxed at 0%. We help you choose based on who your customers are and what you plan to do.
Can I own 100% of my company, or do I need a local sponsor?
In most cases you can own 100% of your company and don't need a local partner. Since 2021, UAE law allows full foreign ownership for most mainland activities, and free zones have always allowed it. A small number of activities still have specific ownership rules. We confirm what applies to your activity before you apply.
How much does it cost to set up a company?
Costs depend on the jurisdiction, business activity, office space and number of visas. Typical items include licence fees, office or flexi-desk rent, visa and Emirates ID costs, and our service fee. We send you a detailed quote for your situation before you commit to anything.
Can I get a residence visa by setting up a company?
Yes. Company owners and partners are generally eligible for a UAE residence visa through their company. You'll need a medical fitness test and an Emirates ID as part of the process. How long the visa is valid depends on the jurisdiction and visa type.
What is the UAE Golden Visa and who is eligible?
The Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa, valid for 5 or 10 years. It is self-sponsored, so you don't need an employer or local sponsor. Routes include property investment (property worth at least AED 2 million), entrepreneurs and business owners, skilled professionals (a monthly salary of at least AED 30,000 and a bachelor's degree), outstanding students and people with recognised talent in specific fields. Holders can sponsor their family and can stay outside the UAE for more than six months without losing residency. We prepare and submit your application; the decision is made by the UAE authorities.
Tell us what you're planning
One short call is usually enough to recommend a jurisdiction, licence and visa route. A written quote follows.
Or call +971 52 210 4014 (Mon–Fri, 9 AM – 6 PM)