Business Setup in Dubai

Your all-in-one solution for Dubai business relocation.

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Start Your Business Setup in Dubai the Right Way

Thinking about business setup in Dubai? You're in the right place. Dubai has quickly become the launchpad of choice for entrepreneurs, founders, and global investors. With 0% personal tax, access to top-tier infrastructure, and a thriving business culture, the city attracts those looking for more than just a place to register a company—it attracts those building futures.

Whether you're exploring a new company setup in Dubai or relocating your existing operation from abroad, the foundation you lay now will shape your success. From selecting your licence type to navigating legal documentation, and from opening a business bank account to understanding your visa options, getting the right support matters. We’re here to guide you from the first form to full launch.

Our clients come to us for one reason: we make company formation in Dubai simple, transparent, and fast.

Why Dubai Is the Global Choice for Business Setup in UAE

When entrepreneurs think about business setup in the UAE, Dubai leads the conversation. You can open a company in Dubai entirely online, from abroad, and often without visiting the country at all. Digital-first, globally connected, and economically stable—Dubai is purpose-built for business.

Business setup in Dubai is not one-size-fits-all. You have options: Free Zone, Mainland, and Offshore. A Free Zone licence suits service providers and digital-first founders. Mainland works well for those serving clients within the UAE or expanding teams. Offshore structures appeal to those looking for international asset holding and simplified governance.

We break down every path so your business setup in UAE matches your specific goals. Free Zone company formation allows for 100% foreign ownership and efficient visa processing. Mainland company formation opens doors to local markets and long-term growth. Offshore company setup creates distance between liabilities and assets while remaining compliant.

Whether you want to register a small business or plan a full company formation in UAE, we help you move from decision to delivery with precision.

Your path to Dubai: 4 essentials steps to setting up your business 

01.

Business setup and licensing
Choose between Mainland or Free Zone based on your industry and ownership needs. Secure your trade license, register with authorities, and ensure compliance with updated UAE corporate tax laws.

02.

Visa and residency process

Apply for your Visa and Emirates ID to establish legal residency. If bringing your team or family, factor in updated visa sponsorship rules and processing times.

03.

Banking and financial setup

Opening a corporate bank account requires strict KYC checks and financial proof, varying by bank. A structured application with the right documents avoids delays and rejections.

04.

Relocation and settling in

Set up a physical or virtual office, ensuring compliance with UAE regulations. Navigate local contracts, taxation, and operational logistics to hit the ground running.

How to Start a Business in Dubai Step by Step

If you’ve asked yourself how to start a business in Dubai, you're not alone. The steps are straightforward, but each stage has nuances.

  1. Choose between Free Zone, Mainland, or Offshore jurisdiction.
  2. Select a business activity and matching trade licence.
  3. Reserve your company name.
  4. Submit application documents for approval.
  5. Set up a virtual or physical office.
  6. Apply for relevant visas.
  7. Open a business bank account in Dubai.

Understanding how to start a business in UAE means understanding which structure supports your operations. Online company registration in Dubai is an option for many low-risk activities. Those needing an employment visa or looking to sponsor dependents should assess Free Zone vs Mainland carefully. We’ll help you model all outcomes.

We also handle e-trader licence applications and digital onboarding for those launching ecommerce ventures.

Choosing the Right Company Formation in UAE

Your success depends on choosing the right structure. Company formation in UAE offers many configurations. Free Zones offer speed, ease, and remote setup. Mainland registration unlocks access to local clients. Offshore structures minimise bureaucracy for holding companies or IP portfolios.

When it comes to business setup in Dubai, there's a reason Free Zone formation is so popular—it’s efficient and flexible. But that doesn’t make it the best fit for everyone. An LLC company in UAE operating under a Mainland licence provides flexibility to scale, trade locally, and open up physical premises. Offshore company setup in UAE, while limited in trading activity, offers maximum privacy and international legitimacy.

If you're wondering how to register a company in Dubai for a specific use case—consulting, ecommerce, media—we guide you to the structure that makes the most sense, without overspending or underestimating future needs.

Why Work With a Business Setup Company in Dubai

There are hundreds of business set up companies in Dubai. The difference lies in the depth of service and transparency. We don’t just fill out forms—we partner with you on every stage: strategy, compliance, documentation, and growth.

Need business registration in UAE that covers multiple jurisdictions? We’ve got it. Want a company formation UAE-wide with the cheapest Free Zone for your activity? We’ll give you a short list, with side-by-side cost and renewal comparisons.

Whether it's an LLC company in UAE or a solo freelance consultancy, we build around your lifestyle and ambitions. Our service includes visa planning, employee onboarding, trade licence renewal support, and help with small business bank account applications.

Business Startup in Dubai: Made for Speed and Scale

Dubai doesn’t just cater to big firms. A business startup in Dubai can thrive from day one with the right setup. Whether you're opening a digital agency, launching a side hustle, or scaling an established UK operation, your path to market can be as short as five working days.

We help you choose the right Free Zone, apply for your trade licence, and prepare documentation. If you're setting up a limited company in Dubai, we guide you through the legal and banking compliance from the start.

Dubai's ecosystem makes it simple to scale. Add team members, upgrade your visa quota, or shift from freelance to full licence—all within the same structure.

Check out our latest content!

Find the perfect business zone for your Dubai setup

Offshore

  1. Global business, no UAE trading.
  2. 100% foreign ownership, no tax.
  3. No office needed.
  4. Global business, no UAE trading.
  5. No UAE visas.
  6. Banking restrictions apply.

Mainland

  1. Trade in UAE and globally.
  2. Office required, unlimited visas.
  3. 9% corporate tax applies.
  4. Work with Gov and private sector.
  5. No currency limits.
  6. Best for services and retail.

Free Zone

  1. 100% foreign ownership.
  2. Limited UAE trading allowed.
  3. Tax benefits, fast setup.
  4. No local sponsor needed.
  5. Visas depend on office space.
  6. Great for e-commerce and trade.

Here's what we do

Setting up and running a business in Dubai comes with unique opportunities—and complexities. We handle the entire process, from company formation and visas to banking and compliance, ensuring a smooth transition. Whether you're relocating, expanding, or starting fresh, our expertise helps you cut through the red tape and get set up the right way.

What are the main options for setting up a business in Dubai?

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You can choose between Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore, each with different trade and ownership benefits.

Do I need a local sponsor to start a business in Dubai?

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Only Mainland businesses require a local service agent for certain activities, while Free Zones allow 100% foreign ownership.

How long does it take to register a business in Dubai?

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Business setup typically takes 5-10 working days, depending on the structure and approvals required.

Can I get a UAE residency visa by setting up a business?

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Yes, business owners and investors can obtain a residency visa, which can also sponsor family members.

What is the Golden Visa, and who qualifies?

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The Golden Visa is a long-term residency (5-10 years) for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals.

How many visas can I get with my business setup?

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This depends on your business type and office space, Mainland businesses have more flexibility, while Free Zones offer tiered options.

Can I open a business bank account remotely?

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Some banks allow remote applications, but many require at least one in-person visit.

Is corporate tax applicable to all businesses in the UAE?

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Yes, a 9% corporate tax applies to Mainland and Free Zone businesses, but exemptions exist for qualifying Free Zone entities.

How difficult is it to open a corporate bank account in Dubai?

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Mainland businesses require an office, but many Free Zones offer virtual office solutions.

What are PRO services, and why do I need them?

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PRO services handle government paperwork, visas, and licensing, ensuring full legal compliance.

Are there restrictions on doing business outside a Free Zone?

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Yes, Free Zone companies cannot trade directly in the UAE Mainland without a local distributor or branch.

What are the key benefits of moving my business to Dubai?

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Dubai offers tax advantages, global market access, a strong economy, and a high quality of life.

Can I keep my UK business while setting up in Dubai?

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Yes, many UK business owners set up in Dubai while maintaining UK operations.

Is Dubai a good place to raise a family while running a business?

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Absolutely—Dubai has world-class schools, healthcare, and infrastructure, making it an excellent base for entrepreneurs and their families.