Company setup
Dubai Mainland
Mainland companies are companies registered with the Department of Economic Development (DED) in the United Arab Emirates. Mainland companies enjoy a lot of advantages that make them a favorable investment choice for many investors and ambitious startups wishing to grow their businesses and expand their work sectors.
Required Documents
Types of mainland company structure
Professional Trade License
A professional trade license in Dubai is a type of business license issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) to individuals or entities that wish to operate a business offering professional services. Unlike commercial licenses, which are typically issued for businesses dealing with goods, the professional trade license is for businesses that provide expertise, consultancy, or services that require a specific skill set.
Commercial trade license
A commercial trade license in Dubai is a business license issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED)that allows businesses to engage in commercial activities, including the trading of goods and products. It is required for any business in Dubai that involves the buying, selling, or distribution of goods, either locally or internationally.
Industrial trade license
An industrial trade license in Dubai is a type of business license that allows companies to engage in manufacturing, production, and industrial activities. This license is issued for businesses involved in converting raw materials into finished goods or producing tangible products for sale. It is specifically for businesses engaged in industrial activities such as factories, assembly plants, or production units.
About Freezone
Free zone license in UAE is the perfect choice for foreign investors who want 100% ownership of their business. Freedom to operate business, permission to employee any number of foreign work force, minimum government intervention, Tax exemption, low setup cost and maintenance cost etc make UAE freezones the most favourable location for company setup. UAE freezone license is the most in demand business license category among foreign entrepreneur. Investors can choose UAE Free Zone Business License Package with Zero Visa Quota starting from AED 11,500.
UAE has more than 42 freezones with separate jurisdictions. Each major freezone has more than 8000 companies registered and investors are forming bee-line to set up business in UAE freezones. Company registration in each free zone has different set of requirements, cost and legal structure.
Required Documents
Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone, located in the heart of Dubai, offers a strategic and dynamic environment for businesses to grow. With its modern infrastructure, world-class facilities, and ease of doing business, the Meydan Free Zone has quickly become a sought-after destination for entrepreneurs and investors worldwide. Whether you are a startup or an established business, Meydan provides a streamlined setup process, cost-effective solutions, and access to a wide range of business services.
Shams (Sharjah Media City)
Sharjah Media City (Shams) is a dynamic free zone designed to support entrepreneurs, SMEs, and established businesses across various industries. Known for its affordability and streamlined processes, Shams is especially popular among media, digital, and creative enterprises. It offers a wide range of business activities and allows 100% foreign ownership, making it a flexible and attractive option for startups and established businesses alike.
Steps to Set Up a Business in Sharjah Media City
Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP)
Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTIP) offers a dynamic platform for businesses focusing on innovation, sustainability, and technology. Setting up a business in SRTIP provides companies with access to state-of-the-art infrastructure, research opportunities, and a collaborative environment designed to foster growth. Entrepreneurs benefit from 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and proximity to leading academic institutions. SRTIP provides the ideal ecosystem for thriving in the UAE market.
DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre)
DIFC is a globally recognized financial hub connecting regional markets to the international financial community. This zone is tailored for banking, insurance, fintech, and professional services companies. DIFC offers a world-class legal system, independent regulation, and tax-efficient benefits, ensuring businesses can operate with confidence in a secure and stable environment.
Business setup steps DIFC
RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)
RAKEZ is a versatile, cost-effective business destination catering to startups, SMEs, and multinational corporations. Its strategic location and simplified setup processes attract diverse industries, including manufacturing, trade, and services. Entrepreneurs enjoy flexible workspace options, full foreign ownership, and access to a growing market in Ras Al Khaimah and beyond. RAKEZ’s efficient operations and support services make it an attractive option for businesses of all sizes.
Business setup steps RAKEZ
Ajman Free Zone
Ajman Free Zone offers an affordable and business-friendly environment, especially for startups and small to medium enterprises. Its strategic location near Ajman Port provides excellent connectivity for trade and logistics businesses. Companies benefit from 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and easy access to the UAE market. With a focus on efficiency and affordability, Ajman Free Zone is ideal for businesses looking to establish a strong regional presence.
Business setup steps
IFZA
IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) in Dubai provides a streamlined business setup process that allows entrepreneurs to easily establish their companies. With a focus on flexibility and cost-effectiveness, IFZA is an ideal choice for a range of businesses. The process involves determining the business activity, reserving a business name, and submitting necessary documents for approval. IFZA offers 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and easy access to international markets, making it a prime destination for setting up a business in the UAE.
Sharjah publishing city Free Zone (SPC)
Setting up a Single Person Company (SPC) in the UAE provides entrepreneurs with full ownership and limited liability, making it an attractive option for those who want complete control over their business. This structure is perfect for individuals who aim to operate independently and tap into the UAE market. It is a streamlined process that allows sole proprietors to benefit from full ownership while ensuring legal protection.
Steps to Set Up a Business in Sharjah Media City
DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre)
The DMCC is one of the most sought-after free zones in Dubai for starting a business, especially for companies dealing in commodities, trade, and finance. DMCC offers a flexible and business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs and companies looking to establish themselves in Dubai’s thriving economy. With a global reach, state-of-the-art facilities, and exceptional infrastructure, DMCC is a hub for businesses in various sectors
Steps to Set Up a Business in DMCC
About Offshore Company Setup
The International Business Company, also known as an offshore company, has gained popularity among foreign investors due to its tax-saving features, affordable formation costs, data security, and property rights.
Additionally, offshore businesses in the United Arab Emirates give you the chance to boost earnings, streamline documentation, and preserve your anonymity. The most sought-after location for establishing an offshore business is Ras Al Khaimah Emirate’s RAK International Corporate Centre (RAKICC). Adhering to international standards and best practices for international company formation, RAK ICC is a state-of-the-art registry of organizations.
Advantages Of Setting Up in Offshore Company Setup
Required Documents
Jafza Offshore
JAFZA Offshore is a company registered under the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) in Dubai, UAE, governed by the 2018 Offshore Companies Regulations. It allows businesses to operate internationally without needing a physical UAE office, offering benefits like tax efficiency, asset protection, and confidentiality, making it ideal for investors and global business operations.
Ajman Offshore
Ajman Offshore stands as a premier choice for entrepreneurs seeking a straightforward, cost-efficient business setup in the UAE. With 100% foreign ownership, no physical office requirements, and confidentiality of shareholder details, it’s the perfect solution for international trading, asset holding, and investment structuring. The process is designed to be smooth, giving businesses the foundation they need to thrive globally.
