Company Formation UAE | Business Setup in Dubai & Free Zones
Establish your business in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or any UAE emirate with expert guidance. Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore company setup tailored to your industry, growth plans and operational requirements.
Your Gateway to Middle East Markets
The UAE has established itself as the premier business hub connecting East and West, offering world-class infrastructure, political stability, and a pro-business regulatory environment. With 100% foreign ownership now permitted in most sectors across Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore jurisdictions, there has never been a better time to establish your presence in the region.
Whether you are launching a startup, expanding an established enterprise, or structuring international holdings, our team provides comprehensive end-to-end company formation services across all UAE jurisdictions with dedicated support throughout the process.
Mainland Company
Trade directly within the UAE market and beyond with a mainland licence. Ideal for businesses targeting local customers, government contracts, and retail operations across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and all emirates.
Free Zone Company
Establish your business in one of over 40 UAE free zones. Enjoy 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate and personal tax, full repatriation of capital and profits, and simplified company formation processes.
Offshore Company
Perfect for international holding structures, asset protection, and tax planning. UAE offshore companies offer complete confidentiality, no corporate taxes, and exemption from customs duties.
Mainland vs Free Zone: Choosing the Right Structure
Mainland Company
Free Zone Company
Key Free Zones for Business Setup
DMCC
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre — the world's #1 free zone for commodities, trading, and general business.
DIFC
Dubai International Financial Centre — premier financial hub with common law framework for banking, finance and fintech.
ADGM
Abu Dhabi Global Market — international financial centre with robust regulatory framework for asset management and fintech.
JAFZA
Jebel Ali Free Zone — largest free zone in the UAE, ideal for logistics, manufacturing and industrial operations.
DSO
Dubai Silicon Oasis — technology park for IT, electronics, innovation and R&D companies with integrated residential community.
IFZA
International Free Zone Authority — cost-effective free zone in Dubai with a wide range of business activities and flexible office solutions.
Our Company Formation Process
Consultation
We assess your business needs and recommend the optimal jurisdiction and licence type.
Entity Selection
Choose between Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore based on your activity and growth plans.
Registration & Licensing
Complete all government filings, trade licence application, and regulatory approvals.
Post-Incorporation Support
Visa processing, corporate bank account setup, PRO services, and ongoing compliance management.
Why Set Up in the UAE?
Visa Allocation with Company Formation
Every UAE company is allocated a visa quota based on its office space, business activity, and jurisdiction. Free zones typically provide visa allocation linked to office package size, while Mainland companies receive quota based on workspace area and licence type.
Our team ensures your visa allocation is optimised from day one, covering shareholder visas, employee visas, and family sponsorship eligibility. We manage the entire visa lifecycle from initial application through medical, biometrics, and Emirates ID processing.
Corporate Bank Account Opening
Opening a corporate bank account in the UAE requires careful preparation of documentation and compliance with Central Bank regulations. We support our clients through the bank account opening process, including bank selection, document preparation, meeting coordination, and follow-up through to account activation.
We maintain relationships with leading UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, Mashreq, FAB, RAKBANK, and international banks operating in DIFC and ADGM, helping match your business with the right banking partner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of company formation are available in UAE?+
Three primary structures are available: Mainland companies that can trade freely within the UAE market, Free Zone companies offering tax benefits and 100% foreign ownership within designated economic zones, and Offshore companies ideal for international holding structures and asset protection.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a UAE company?+
Yes, since the 2021 amendment to the Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is permitted across most business activities in both Mainland and Free Zone jurisdictions, eliminating the previous requirement for a local partner or national service agent.
What is the difference between Mainland and Free Zone company formation?+
Mainland companies can trade directly within the UAE market, secure government contracts, and operate across all emirates without restrictions. Free Zone companies enjoy 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate and personal tax, and simplified setup processes, but are restricted to operating within the zone or internationally unless they appoint a local distributor for onshore trading.
How long does company registration take in the UAE?+
Free zone company registration typically takes 1-2 weeks from document submission to trade licence issuance. Mainland company formation generally takes 2-4 weeks, depending on the business activity, jurisdiction approvals, and document attestation requirements. Our team expedites the process through established government relationships.
What documents are required for UAE company formation?+
Required documents include passport copies of all shareholders and directors, a detailed business plan describing proposed activities, completed shareholder agreement forms, proof of initial share capital deposit where required, No Objection Certificate from existing sponsor (if applicable), and registered trade name approval. Additional documentation may be required for regulated activities.
Can I get a residence visa through my newly formed company?+
Yes, company owners, partners, and employees can obtain UAE residence visas through their company. Free zones typically provide visa allocation based on office space, while Mainland companies receive visa quotas based on workspace and business activity. Family sponsorship is available once the primary visa is issued.
Do I need a local partner for mainland company formation?+
No, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for most business activities in Mainland UAE. Certain strategic activities (such as security, defence, and financial services) may have specific requirements, but the vast majority of commercial, industrial, and professional activities are fully open to foreign ownership.
What are the key free zones for company formation?+
Leading free zones include DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) for commodities and trading, DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) for financial services, ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) for financial and fintech, JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone) for logistics and manufacturing, and DSO (Dubai Silicon Oasis) for technology and innovation companies.
Ready to Establish Your UAE Presence?
Speak with our business setup team for a free consultation and a tailored company formation plan.
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