Company Setup — Dubai (UAE)

Comprehensive business formation services in Dubai and the UAE, from Freezone and Mainland setup to Investor Residency Pathways.

Freezone Setup

Establish your business in a UAE Freezone with 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, and streamlined registration.

Eligibility

  • Any nationality can apply
  • 100% foreign ownership permitted
  • No minimum capital requirement for most freezones
  • Business activity must align with freezone licence categories

Process

  1. 1Select the appropriate freezone based on business activity
  2. 2Choose company structure (FZE, FZC, branch)
  3. 3Reserve trade name and apply for initial approval
  4. 4Submit incorporation documents
  5. 5Obtain trade licence
  6. 6Apply for visa and establishment card
  7. 7Open corporate bank account

Documents Required

  • Passport copies of shareholders and directors
  • Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
  • Business plan or activity description
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) if employed in UAE
  • Board resolution (for corporate shareholders)
  • Bank reference letter

Timeline

1-3 weeks for licence issuance

*Timelines may vary based on freezone/authority

Mainland Company Formation

Set up a mainland company in Dubai to trade freely within the UAE and internationally, with access to government contracts.

Eligibility

  • 100% foreign ownership now permitted for most activities
  • Local service agent required for certain activities
  • Physical office space required
  • Business activity must be approved by DED

Process

  1. 1Select business activity and legal structure
  2. 2Apply for initial approval from Department of Economic Development (DED)
  3. 3Draft Memorandum of Association (MOA)
  4. 4Secure office premises and tenancy contract
  5. 5Obtain trade licence from DED
  6. 6Register with relevant authorities (Chamber of Commerce, etc.)
  7. 7Apply for residency visas

Documents Required

  • Passport copies of all partners/shareholders
  • Tenancy contract (Ejari registered)
  • Memorandum of Association
  • Initial approval certificate
  • NOC from current sponsor (if applicable)
  • Bank reference letters
  • Business plan

Timeline

2-4 weeks for full company formation

*Timelines may vary based on freezone/authority

Investor Residency Pathways

Secure long-term UAE residency through investment in property, business, or special investor visa programmes.

Eligibility

  • Property investment of AED 2 million+ for Golden Visa
  • Business owners with investment capital in UAE
  • Entrepreneurs with approved startup projects
  • Specialised talent and professionals in priority sectors

Process

  1. 1Assess eligibility for investor residency stream
  2. 2Prepare investment or business documentation
  3. 3Submit application to relevant authority (ICP/GDRFA)
  4. 4Biometrics and medical examination
  5. 5Residency visa issuance
  6. 6Emirates ID application

Documents Required

  • Valid passport (6+ months validity)
  • Investment evidence (property title deed, share certificates)
  • Bank statements showing investment funds
  • Trade licence (for business investors)
  • Health insurance
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Medical fitness certificate

Timeline

2-4 weeks for Golden Visa processing

*Timelines may vary based on freezone/authority