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Help and support

Get answers to your questions, browse our FAQs, or reach out to our team.

Ways to reach us

Email, WhatsApp and form enquiries are answered within one business day. Messages received outside business hours are answered on the next business day.

Email
hello@almahira.meWe reply within one business day
Phone
+971 52 210 4014Mon–Fri, 9 AM – 6 PM
WhatsApp
Chat on WhatsApp (opens in a new tab)Message us and we'll reply during business hours
Office
Office 101, Business Bay
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Support hours
Monday – Friday
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (GST)
Response time
Within one business dayEmail, WhatsApp and form enquiries

Frequently asked questions

Questions about property, software or marketing are on our FAQ page. Can't find what you're looking for? Read our guides or send us a message.

Working with Almahira

How do I get started?

Contact us by phone, email, WhatsApp or the contact form. We'll arrange a free consultation to understand what you need, then send a tailored proposal with no obligation.

Is the first consultation free?

Yes. The first consultation is free for all our services, so you can ask questions and understand our approach before you commit to anything.

How can I pay?

We accept bank transfers, credit and debit cards, and online payments. Other methods may be possible on request. Payment terms are set out in your service agreement.

Do you work with clients outside Dubai?

Yes. We're based in Dubai and work with clients across the UAE. For software development and digital marketing, we also work with clients internationally.

How will I know how my case or project is going?

We send regular updates by email, WhatsApp or whichever channel you prefer. For software projects, you also get access to our project management tools.

Why work with Almahira?

You can handle company setup, visas, property and technology with one team, so you don't have to coordinate several providers. We explain costs in writing before you commit and keep you updated at every step.

Setting up a company

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.

Do I need a physical office?

Every company needs a registered business address. Depending on the jurisdiction and activity, this can be a flexi-desk, a shared office or a dedicated office. Mainland companies generally need a registered tenancy contract (Ejari). The space you choose can also affect how many visas you can apply for, so we help you plan both together.

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 you help open a corporate bank account?

Yes. We help you choose suitable banks, prepare the documents they ask for and follow your application through. Each bank runs its own compliance checks and makes the final decision, so approval and timing can't be guaranteed.

Visas and residency

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.

How many employee visas can my company get?

Your visa quota depends on your licence type, jurisdiction and office space. Free zones set their own allocations. We confirm your quota during setup and help you plan it around your hiring needs.

Can I sponsor my family?

Yes, if you meet the minimum salary or income requirement set by the authorities. You can usually sponsor your spouse and children, and in some cases your parents. We can prepare and submit family visa applications for you.

How long does visa processing take?

A residence visa involves several steps: an entry permit if you are outside the UAE, a medical fitness test, Emirates ID biometrics and the visa itself. The full process usually takes weeks rather than days. Timelines depend on the visa type, the authority and how complete your documents are. We give you an estimate for your case and keep you updated throughout.

What happens if my visa application is rejected?

We help you understand the reason and, where possible, reapply with corrected or additional documents. Visa decisions are made by the UAE authorities, and government fees are generally non-refundable.

Still have questions?

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