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Mainland · Free Zone · Offshore

Company Formation

Every jurisdiction offers a different mix of ownership, market access, and cost. We help you choose — then handle the entire setup process from there.

Jurisdictions

Mainland vs. Free Zone vs. Offshore

A quick comparison to help you understand which structure fits your business activity and goals.

Option 02

Free Zone Company

  • Operate from one of 50+ UAE free zones
  • 100% foreign ownership as standard
  • 0% corporate tax on qualifying income in most zones
  • Cost-efficient setup, often bundled with visa packages
  • Best for export, consulting, and digital businesses
Option 03

Offshore Company

  • No physical office required in the UAE
  • Ideal for international trade, holding, and asset structuring
  • Cannot trade directly within the UAE local market
  • Access to UAE banking and legal/financial advisory
  • Best for global business and holding structures

This is general, industry-standard guidance on UAE company structures. Exact requirements, fees, and eligibility depend on your business activity and the specific authority — we confirm the details for your case during a free consultation.

Trade Licenses

Choosing the Right License Type

Your license type is determined by your business activity.

Commercial License

For trading, general trading, and buy-sell business activities.

Professional License

For service-based businesses — consulting, IT, freelancing, and expert services. Often allows full foreign ownership.

Industrial License

For manufacturing and production businesses requiring warehouse or industrial space.

E-commerce License

For online businesses and digital trading platforms — one of the fastest-growing license categories.

General Trading License

Allows multiple trading activities under a single license, offering flexibility for expanding businesses.

Tourism License

For travel agencies, tour operators, and hospitality-related business activities.

Our Process

From consultation to a fully licensed company.

1

Consultation

We discuss your business activity, shareholders, and target market.

2

Jurisdiction & Activity

We recommend the right jurisdiction and license activity for you.

3

Trade License

We handle name reservation, application, and document submission.

4

Visa & Emirates ID

We process visas and Emirates ID for you, staff, and dependents.

5

Bank Account

We assist in opening your corporate bank account with a suitable bank.

Indicative Investment

What Does It Typically Cost?

General, industry-standard ranges to help you plan your budget. Your exact quote depends on jurisdiction, activity, and visa count.

Free Zone Setup
AED 12,000–15,000+

Typical starting range, often including a flexi-desk and limited visa quota.

Mainland Setup
AED 15,000–30,000+

Mainland setups can cost more due to office space requirements and local approvals.

Professional License
AED 10,000–20,000+

Depends on jurisdiction and business activity, before visa and office costs.

These figures are indicative, industry-standard estimates for general planning purposes only — not a fixed quotation. Government fees, visa costs, office space, and approvals vary by case.

Frequently Asked

Formation FAQ

Which is better — Mainland or Free Zone?+

It depends on your business activity. Mainland offers maximum flexibility to trade across the UAE, while Free Zone is often more cost-efficient for export, consulting, or digital businesses.

Can I fully own my company as a foreigner?+

Yes — 100% foreign ownership is available for most activities in both Mainland and Free Zone jurisdictions under current UAE regulations.

How long does company formation take?+

Many licenses can be issued within a few working days once documentation is complete, though timelines vary by jurisdiction and activity.

Do I need a physical office?+

Mainland companies generally require office space. Many Free Zones offer flexi-desk options at lower cost. Offshore companies need no physical UAE office.

Get an accurate, itemized quote for your business setup.

Request a Free Quote