Set up your UAE company the right way from day one
We help founders, startups and growing businesses choose between mainland and free zone, pick the right activity and structure, and get licensed. Then we keep you compliant with Corporate Tax, VAT and clean books.
Mainland or free zone?
The biggest setup decision is where your company is licensed. It decides who you can sell to, what office you need and how you grow.
| Mainland | Free zone | |
|---|---|---|
| Who you can sell to | Customers anywhere in the UAE market, including government entities. | Within the free zone and internationally. Selling into the UAE mainland usually needs a distributor or additional approval. |
| Ownership | 100% foreign ownership is allowed for most activities. A few strategic activities have restrictions. | 100% foreign ownership. |
| Office | A physical office with a registered tenancy is generally required. | Flexi-desk and shared office packages are common, which keeps entry cost lower. |
| Usually a good fit for | Retail, contracting, local services and businesses serving UAE customers directly. | Consultancies, e-commerce, international trading, holding companies and remote-first businesses. |
Rules vary by emirate, authority and activity. We confirm what applies to your case during the consultation.
Popular free zones by starting price
Choose what matters most to you, then select a free zone to see who it suits.
Estimated starting points. Actual cost moves with licence activity, visa allocation, office type, legal structure, authority fees and current promotions. ADGM is priced in USD and placed on the scale at its approximate AED equivalent.
What changes your setup cost
The headline price rarely tells the full story. Compare total cost over the first full year, not just the licence.
- Licence activities. Some activities need extra approvals or cost more to add.
- Visa allocation. Each visa adds medicals, Emirates ID and processing fees.
- Office type. Flexi-desk, shared or dedicated office space.
- Legal structure. Single or multiple shareholders, individual or corporate.
- Renewals. Annual renewal can differ from the first-year promotional price.
- Banking and add-ons. Bank account support, additional activities and special approvals.
Documents to have ready
A typical starting list for individual shareholders. Requirements vary by authority, and we confirm yours.
- Passport copy of each shareholder and manager
- Passport-size photograph
- UAE visa or entry stamp, or Emirates ID if you are a resident
- Proposed trade names, in order of preference
- Business activities you plan to carry out
- For corporate shareholders: incorporation documents and a board resolution
After your company is formed
Setup is the first step. Every UAE company still needs proper books, tax registrations and compliance. We handle that too.
Frequently asked questions
Which UAE free zone is best for a low-cost startup?
It depends on your activity, visa needs and long-term plans. Cost-sensitive founders often compare lower-entry options first, but the right answer depends on total operating fit, not only the headline setup price.
Why do some free zones look cheap at first but cost more later?
Initial pricing may not include visas, workspace upgrades, annual renewal changes, additional activities, banking support or other operating requirements. Review total cost over at least the first full business cycle.
Is Dubai always the best option for company formation?
Not always. Dubai offers strong brand perception and ecosystem value, but other emirates or free zones may offer better cost efficiency or a more suitable structure, depending on your business model and priorities.
What should I consider before choosing a free zone?
Business activity, visa requirement, budget, renewal costs, workspace need, expected banking profile, compliance obligations, and whether the setup still makes sense as the business grows.
Do free zone companies still need accounting and tax support?
Yes. Free zone companies still need proper books, financial records and tax awareness. The setup jurisdiction does not remove the need for clean accounting, compliance discipline and year-end readiness.
Can you help after the company is formed?
Yes. Beyond setup, we support Corporate Tax, VAT, bookkeeping, AML compliance and audit assistance so your business runs smoothly after incorporation.
Why do premium free zones cost more?
Premium free zones often offer stronger ecosystem value, business visibility, broader commercial positioning or a more established operating environment. For some businesses, those factors justify the higher entry and renewal cost.
Should I choose based on a current promotion or long-term fit?
Promotions help, but long-term fit matters more. The best choice aligns with your activity, compliance needs, renewal budget and future direction.
Not sure which setup fits your business?
Tell us what you plan to do. We'll compare your options, explain the real costs and recommend a structure that works for setup, tax and growth.