Setup Your UAE Company
Launch your business in the UAE's strategic, tax-advantaged hub. From license selection to bank account — expert guidance for mainland, free zone & offshore setups.
Overview
UAE Commercial Companies LawUAE Company Setup enables foreign entrepreneurs to establish a legal business presence in one of the world's most strategic, tax-advantaged jurisdictions. The UAE offers three primary structures: Mainland (trade anywhere in UAE), Free Zone (100% ownership, tax exemptions), and Offshore (asset holding, international trading). Recent reforms allow 100% foreign ownership in most mainland sectors. Benefits include 0% personal/corporate tax (in free zones), full profit repatriation, world-class infrastructure, and access to MENA, Asia & Europe markets. We handle end-to-end setup including jurisdiction selection, document preparation, licensing, and bank account opening assistance.
Expert Jurisdiction Guidance
We help choose mainland/free zone/offshore based on your business model
End-to-End Setup
From name reservation to license issuance and bank account support
Post-Setup Support
Visa processing, VAT registration, PRO services, and compliance assistance
UAE Company Setup Options
Mainland Company
Trade anywhere in UAE, bid on government contracts
Ownership: 100% foreign ownership now allowed in most sectors
Free Zone Company
100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, full repatriation
Ownership: 100% foreign ownership guaranteed
Offshore Company
Hold assets, international trading, no physical office needed
Ownership: 100% foreign ownership, no UAE presence required
Branch Office
Extend existing foreign company operations to UAE
Ownership: Parent company retains 100% ownership
Unsure which structure fits? Get free jurisdiction consultation.
Required Documents
Passport Copies
Clear copies of all shareholders/directors (valid 6+ months)
Passport-Size Photographs
White background, recent photos for visa processing
Business Plan/Activity Description
Brief description of intended business activities
Proof of Address
Utility bill or bank statement (not older than 3 months)
MOA/Lease Agreement
Memorandum of Association + office lease (for mainland/free zone)
No Objection Certificate (NOC)
If applicant is resident in UAE, NOC from current sponsor
Pro tip: Get documents attested in home country before traveling — saves 1-2 weeks in UAE processing.
UAE Company Setup Process
~5-20 days (based on jurisdiction)Business Activity & Jurisdiction Selection
3-5 daysChoose business activity, select mainland/free zone/offshore based on needs
Name Reservation & Initial Approval
2-3 daysReserve trade name, get initial approval from DED or free zone authority
Document Preparation & Submission
5-7 daysPrepare MOA, lease agreement, passport copies, submit for licensing
License Issuance & Post-Setup
3-5 daysReceive trade license, open bank account, register for VAT if applicable
Why Setup in UAE?
Access a strategic, tax-efficient hub with world-class infrastructure and global connectivity.
Tax Advantages
0% personal/corporate tax in free zones; competitive rates mainland
Strategic Location
Gateway to MENA, Asia, Europe — 4-hour flight to 1/3 of world population
Business-Friendly
100% foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, no currency restrictions
World-Class Infrastructure
Top-ranked airports, ports, logistics, and digital connectivity
Frequently Asked Questions
Start Your UAE Company Setup
Zero hidden fees. UAE setup experts. Licensing, documentation & bank account support included.
Free jurisdiction consultation included
Download UAE Setup Guide
Get our 20-page handbook: jurisdiction comparison, cost breakdown & step-by-step setup checklist.