Free Zones
Free Zone Company Setup
- 100% foreign ownership
- Tax advantages (subject to regulation)
- Capital & profit repatriation
- Ideal for international business
Business Setup Cost Calculator
How Much Does Business Setup in Dubai Cost?
From Free Zone to Mainland, our calculator gives instant clarity based on visas, shareholders and activity type.
Calculate NowCorporate Services
Already own a business?
Simplify and scale your operations with our end-to-end suite of UAE corporate services — from tax compliance and banking to visas, PRO and legal support.
Tax & VAT
Corporate Tax & VAT
Ensure full compliance with Corporate Tax and VAT regulations.
Banking
Bank Account Opening
Open business or personal accounts with leading UAE banks.
Finance
Accounting & Payroll
Bookkeeping, payroll, reconciliations and audit support.
Compliance
Compliance Services
UBO filings, ESR, licence renewals and regulatory handling.
Residency
Golden Visa
Long-term UAE residency with eligibility checks and filing.
PRO
PRO Services
Government paperwork and approvals managed end-to-end.
Legal
Legal Services
Corporate legal advisory, contracts, M&A and disputes.
Should you do it alone?
Should you undertake business setup in Dubai yourself?
Wondering if you can start a Dubai company on your own? You can — but there are important realities to understand.
Jurisdiction choices, licences, approvals and banking can quickly turn DIY into a full-time job.
There are too many options
Over 60 jurisdictions and countless licences make wrong decisions easy.
It’s time-consuming
Multiple visits, appointments and approvals drain your schedule.
Paperwork is heavy
Miss one detail and delays or rejections follow.
Hidden cost of DIY
Your time, energy and momentum may cost more than expert help.
Mainland
Mainland Business Setup
- Operate anywhere in the UAE
- No activity restrictions
- Higher visa flexibility
- Best for onshore trade
The process of business setup in Dubai
Our specialists handle everything from documentation to banking.
Prepare Documentation
Structure selection and paperwork preparation.
Business Licence
Authority approvals and licence issuance.
Visa Process
Residency and employment visas.
Bank Account
Corporate account opening with UAE banks.
Business Comparison
Dubai Mainland vs Dubai Free Zone
Understand the key differences to choose the right business setup for your goals.
| Feature | Dubai Mainland | Dubai Free Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Business Jurisdiction | Licensed by DET | Free Zone Authority |
| Ownership | 100% foreign ownership | 100% foreign ownership |
| Where You Can Operate | Anywhere in UAE & abroad | Free Zone & internationally |
| Local UAE Trading | Allowed | Distributor required |
| Government Contracts | Eligible | Not eligible |
| Office Requirement | Physical office | Flexi / virtual office |
| Visa Quota | Flexible | Limited |
| Setup Time | 5–10 days | 3–7 days |
| Setup Cost | Moderate to higher | More affordable |
Frequently Asked Questions
Dubai Business Setup FAQs
Clear answers to common questions about Mainland and Free Zone company formation in the UAE.
FAQ – Dubai Mainland Business Setup
❓ What is a Dubai Mainland company?
A Dubai Mainland company is licensed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET),
allowing you to operate anywhere in the UAE and internationally without geographical restrictions.
❓ Can foreigners own 100% of a Dubai Mainland company?
Yes. Most Mainland business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership without the need for a local partner.
❓ How long does Mainland company setup take?
Typically 5 to 10 working days, depending on business activity, approvals, and documentation.
❓ What licenses are available?
- Commercial License
- Professional License
- Industrial License
❓ Do I need a physical office?
Yes. Ejari-registered office space is mandatory. We assist with suitable office solutions.
❓ Can Mainland companies work with government entities?
Yes. Only Mainland companies can bid on UAE government and semi-government contracts.
FAQ – Dubai Free Zone Business Setup
❓ What is a Dubai Free Zone company?
A Free Zone company is registered within a designated Free Zone offering 100% foreign ownership,
tax advantages, and simplified regulations.
❓ Who should choose a Free Zone company?
- International businesses
- Consultants & professionals
- E-commerce companies
- Startups & digital businesses
- Trading & import/export firms
❓ Can Free Zone companies trade in the UAE?
They can trade internationally freely. To trade within the UAE mainland, a local distributor or branch may be required.
❓ Is a physical office required?
Not always. Many Free Zones offer flexi-desk or virtual office options.
❓ Are Free Zone companies tax-free?
Free Zones offer 0% personal income tax and corporate tax exemptions, subject to UAE regulations and compliance.
❓ Can Firdaws Al Haya help choose the right Free Zone?
Yes. We provide expert Free Zone advisory to select the most suitable Free Zone for your business goals.
