Setting Up a Company in the UAE

Step into a world of opportunities through mainland operations

17,000+ AED Starting From

UAE Company Types

UAE company registration types include: Mainland Company (Economic Department Company), Free Zone Company (Free Trade Zone Company), and Offshore Company.

The UAE mainland is the hub of most commercial operations. This area is also known as the onshore company creation zone. The entire geographical area granted by the Economic Development Department (DED) of each emirate to all commercial entities to freely carry out business functions is called the UAE mainland. Mainland companies are suitable for industries requiring local engineering and retail store setups.

The UAE Free Zone is a special economic zone established to promote international trade and investment, allowing enterprises to enjoy 100% foreign ownership and tax exemption policies. These zones offer advanced infrastructure and a flexible business environment, attracting global companies to set up headquarters and operational bases, thereby fostering the UAE's economic development and internationalization.

UAE offshore companies can currently be registered in Dubai, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah; they offer advantages such as 100% tax exemption, 100% anonymity, no physical office presence, and no audit requirements; however, they are not permitted to conduct business within the UAE or open corporate bank accounts in the UAE.

Establishing a company in the UAE presents numerous opportunities. With its strategic location and business-friendly policies, the mainland attracts entrepreneurs looking to establish a presence in the region. Setting up a company in Dubai, whether on the mainland or in a free zone, requires navigating regulatory frameworks and compliance procedures.

Broader Business Market Access

Conduct transactions both domestically and internationally without geographical restrictions; flexible business location options
Easier Bank Account Opening

Banks recognize DED-registered companies more readily, facilitating smoother corporate account setup
Zero Trade Restrictions

Engage in various commercial operations; directly sell services to consumers across the UAE
Visa Opportunities & Accessibility

Recruit international talent more easily; no visa quota restrictions for employees
100% Equity Ownership

Allows 100% foreign ownership of mainland companies
No Foreign Exchange Controls

Free repatriation of all capital and profits
Eligible for Government Contract Bidding

Opens additional revenue streams and business opportunities through government contracttenders
No Mandatory Audits

No compulsory audit requirements unlike many other regions

Mainland/Free Zone Company

UAE Mainland Company

UAE Free Zone Company

Umm Al Quwain Free Zone

Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone

Fujairah Free Zone

UAE Offshore Company

Ras Al Khaimah Offshore Company

Ajman Offshore Company

Dubai Offshore Company

Difference Between Free Zone and Mainland Companies

Mainland Company Formation Types

LLC Company

Independent legal entity that can be established by natural persons or legal entities with a minimum of 1 investor and maximum of 50 investors

Branch Office

Affiliated institution established by foreign parent companies in the UAE, non-independentlegal entity without separate articles of association, financially consolidated with the parent company

Representative Office

Office established by foreign institutions within the territory for market research,studies, and development activities only, without engaging in commercial operations

Branch Company

An affiliated institution established by foreign parent companies in the UAE, not an independent legal entity, without separate articles of association, financially consolidated with the parent company

Representative Office

An office established by foreign institutions within the country, prohibited from commercial activities, limited to market research, studies, and development activities only

License Types

Commercial License

Industrial License

Professional License

Tourism License

UAE Company Registration Structures

Sole Proprietorship

Entrepreneurs can choose to establish companies independently within the free zones or on the mainland, thereby gaining full ownership and operational control.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Dubai offers services for establishing limited liability companies on the mainland and in free zones, providing entrepreneurs with limited liability protection and operational flexibility.
Partnership

Dubai facilitates business partnerships where two or more entities share profits and losses. The emirate's partnerships include general partnerships and limited liability partnerships.
Joint Stock Company

Dubai facilitates business partnerships where two or more entities share profits and losses. The emirate's partnerships include general partnerships and limited liability partnerships.
Branch Office

Establishing a branch in Dubai allows a company to operate as an extension of a foreign entity, complying with UAE laws while leveraging the emirate's business environment advantages.

How to Register a Company in the UAE: The Process Explained?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) believes in fostering a conducive environment for investors through streamlined processes to drive economic growth. To this end, they have established a set of simple steps that remain consistent across all jurisdictions within the UAE's business establishment process. Below are the fundamental steps for setting up a business in the UAE.

Business Activity Selection

Once you have made the important decision to start a new business in the UAE, it is important to decide the activities you wish to carry out. Simply share with us some basic information such as the nature of your business and the business services you will be providing.Zhuoxin Business Setup will help you get the perfect combination event to promote your business.

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Jurisdiction Selection

Based on your trade activities, the next step is to decide where to establish your company in the UAE. Whether it's on the mainland, in a free zone, or as an offshore company, the Zhuo Xin Team can directly provide you with cost-effective packages tailored to your specific needs.

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License Application

After completing the initial steps, you will need to prepare all required documents and submit a license application. Zhuo Xin meets all your documentation and application needs, including submitting on your behalf to the relevant government authorities.

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Visa Processing

After application approval, the next step is to initiate the visa process. This includes a medical check-up, and upon completion of visa processing, you will also receive a UAE ID card to facilitate opening a bank account in the UAE. Zhuo Xin not only assists with visa applications but also supports family members, partners, or employees in obtaining any type of visa.

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Bank Account Opening

After your application is approved, the next step is to initiate the visa process, which includes a medical check-up. Once the visa processing is complete, it is crucial for your company to have a company account to ensure successful operations and enable regular financial transactions. Zhuo Xin Enterprise has partnered with leading banks across the UAE to assist your business growth. Choose banking services tailored to your financial needs.

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Our Services

Assisting in leasing office addresses/premises

ODI Filing for Outward Investment

RPO Services

Company Structure Setup

Assisting in opening corporate bank accounts

Tax Agency Services

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FAQ

Our expert team addresses common questions from individuals worldwide about UAE Company

Can a Ras Al Khaimah offshore company employ employees within the UAE?

Ras Al Khaimah offshore companies cannot employ employees in the UAE, nor can they apply for resident visas under their company names.

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Can a non-UAE resident register a company in the UAE?

Yes, UAE free zone companies allow 100% foreign ownership, without the need for local partners, and foreign investors can fully control the company. Currently, UAE Ministry of Economy companies also allow 100% foreign ownership, but some industries still require joint ventures with local partners and local sponsors. (Provided by Adam)

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How to choose a Ministry of Economy company or a free zone company when registering a company in the UAE?

When registering a company in the UAE, you can choose between a Ministry of Economy or a Free Zone Company, depending on whether you have a physical office, business scope, and customer base. If the company will operate locally and sell products to locals, it is recommended to set up a Ministry of Economy Company; if you do re-export business or open a local bank account, it is recommended to set up a Free Zone Company. (Provided by Adam)

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