Choose your jurisdiction
The first and most important decision is where to incorporate. Dubai offers three broad routes, each with different ownership, tax and market-access implications.
- Mainland: full access to the local UAE market; most activities now allow 100% foreign ownership.
- Free zone (DMCC, DIFC, IFZA, etc.): 100% foreign ownership and tax benefits, but trade with the local market is via distributors.
- Offshore: for holding and international business, not local operations.
Select your activity and licence
Your business activity determines your licence type — commercial, professional or industrial — and any special approvals. Picking the correct activity up front avoids costly changes later.
Understand the costs
Setup costs vary widely by jurisdiction, activity, visas and office. Simple free-zone packages can start from around AED 15,000, while mainland setups with multiple visas and office space cost more. Always budget for the licence, visas, office and mandatory insurances.
Visas, banking and compliance
Once licensed, you process investor and employee visas, open a corporate bank account, and register for VAT and corporate tax where applicable. Ongoing compliance — bookkeeping, renewals and filings — starts immediately.
Typical timeline
Free-zone formation can complete in roughly 5–10 working days. Mainland setups usually take 2–4 weeks depending on activity and approvals. Bank account opening can add time and is often the longest step.
Frequently asked questions
Can I own 100% of my Dubai business?
Yes — free zones are fully foreign-owned, and most mainland activities now permit 100% foreign ownership.
How much does it cost?
From roughly AED 15,000 for a simple free-zone setup, rising with visas, activity and office requirements.
Do I need an office?
Most jurisdictions require at least a flexi-desk; mainland activities typically need a tenancy (Ejari).
About the author
Omega Global Editorial · Editorial Team
Practitioners from Omega Global's Technology, Marketing, Finance and Construction practices, writing on doing business across Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Oman.