Business setup

Start your UAE company the right way

The choices you make at formation, including jurisdiction, activity and structure, shape your costs, visas, banking and tax for years. We help you get them right, then handle the process end to end.

Plan your setup

Choosing your jurisdiction

Mainland

Licensed by the economic department of the emirate. Trade directly across the UAE, bid for government contracts and open branches anywhere. Most activities allow 100% foreign ownership.

Free zone

Licensed by one of the UAE's many free zone authorities. 100% ownership, streamlined setup and activity-specific zones, with flexible office options.

Offshore

For holding assets, owning shares or international trading. Offshore companies do not trade within the UAE and are not eligible for residence visas.

Branch or subsidiary

For established foreign companies expanding into the UAE, with the parent company's structure in mind.

What we handle

  • Business activity selection and jurisdiction comparison based on your plans
  • Trade name reservation and initial approval
  • Memorandum of Association and shareholder documentation
  • Office solutions, from flexi-desks to dedicated offices, and tenancy registration
  • Trade licence issuance and establishment card
  • Investor, partner and employee visas, medicals and Emirates ID
  • Corporate bank account preparation and introductions
  • VAT and Corporate Tax registration once the company is live

The setup journey

  • Consultation: we understand your business model, customers and visa needs.
  • Recommendation: a written comparison of the best-fit options with all government and third-party costs.
  • Documentation: we prepare the applications and collect the documents we need from you.
  • Licensing: we submit, follow up and receive your licence on your behalf.
  • After licensing: visas, bank account, tax registrations and your first year of compliance.

Timelines and costs depend on the jurisdiction, activity and any external approvals. We give you a realistic schedule and full cost breakdown before you begin.

FAQ

Setup questions

Can I own 100% of a mainland company?

For most commercial and industrial activities, yes. A small number of strategic activities still have ownership requirements. We confirm the position for your activity at the start.

Do I need to be in the UAE to set up?

Many steps can be completed remotely. You will usually need to visit for your residence visa medical, biometrics and, in most cases, the bank account meeting.

How many visas can my company get?

Visa allocation depends on your jurisdiction, licence package and office space. We factor your hiring plans into the recommendation.

Ready to start your company?

Book a consultation and receive a clear recommendation with costs and timelines.

Book a consultation