Setting up a company in Dubai has become one of the most efficient and rewarding ways to enter the Middle Eastern market. With straightforward procedures, 100% foreign ownership, and a clear legal framework, international investors can establish operations with minimal barriers. This guide explains the steps, costs, and requirements involved, and how our company supports you at every stage.
Why Start a Company in Dubai
Dubai’s pro-business policies, tax-free incentives, and world-class infrastructure make it a top destination for entrepreneurs and corporations alike. Whether launching a consultancy, trading firm, or tech startup, investors benefit from:
- 0% personal and corporate income tax in most sectors
- Full repatriation of capital and profits
- Modern legal framework that supports foreign ownership
- Access to international markets through ports and logistics infrastructure
Our experts guide you from selecting the right business structure to securing trade licenses and operational approvals.
Step-by-Step: How to Set Up a Company in Dubai
The setup process varies slightly depending on whether you choose a mainland or free zone company, but the general stages are similar.
1. Define Your Business Activity
Select your intended business activity from the approved list issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or a relevant free zone authority. The chosen activity determines your license type (commercial, professional, or industrial).
2. Choose a Jurisdiction: Mainland or Free Zone
- Mainland: Allows you to trade directly within the UAE market and internationally.
- Free Zone: Offers simplified setup, 100% foreign ownership, and zero tax on corporate profits.
Our team helps you identify which option best fits your goals, budget, and client base.
3. Reserve a Company Name
The trade name must comply with UAE naming guidelines and be reserved with DET or the free zone authority. Approval usually takes one working day.
4. Prepare Required Documents
You’ll need passport copies for all shareholders, proof of address, a No Objection Certificate (if applicable), and a Memorandum of Association (MoA). We handle document preparation, translation, and notarisation to ensure compliance.
5. Apply for Initial Approval
Initial approval allows you to proceed with the next steps. It confirms that the UAE government has no objection to your business activity.
6. Secure an Office or Flexi Desk
Many free zones offer cost-effective flexi desks for remote operations, while mainland companies generally require an office lease. We assist in securing the most suitable premises based on your requirements.
7. Obtain Your Trade License
Once documents are approved and office details confirmed, your trade license is issued, officially authorising your business to operate.
8. Open a Corporate Bank Account
We coordinate with UAE banks that work efficiently with international investors and ensure your company documentation meets their compliance standards.
Starting a Business in Dubai as a Foreigner
Foreign investors enjoy full ownership rights in most activities and can manage company registration remotely in many free zones. The government has digitised most approval processes, enabling document submission and licensing online.
Our company supports foreign entrepreneurs throughout the process, ensuring legal, linguistic, and procedural steps are handled professionally so your business can start without unnecessary delays.
Minimum Investment to Start a Business in Dubai
The minimum investment depends on the jurisdiction and business activity:
- Free Zone Companies: Most require a share capital between AED 10,000 and AED 50,000 (deposits often not required upfront).
- Mainland Companies: Many activities no longer have a minimum capital requirement, but certain regulated sectors such as finance or construction may require AED 300,000–500,000.
- Service-Based Companies: Can start from AED 5,000–15,000, making Dubai accessible even for small entrepreneurs.
We provide a full capital and cost assessment based on your chosen activity and jurisdiction.
Dubai Company Registration Fees and Estimated Costs
Company setup costs include registration, licensing, and visa processing fees. While exact pricing varies, the average cost to establish a small to medium business in Dubai ranges between AED 20,000 and AED 40,000.
Category
Estimated Range (AED)
Notes
Trade License
10,000–15,000
Varies by activity and authority
Name Reservation & Initial Approval
600–1,200
Paid once per entity
Office or Flexi Desk Lease
10,000–25,000
Required for most setups
Visa Application & Establishment Card
3,000–5,000 per visa
For owners and employees
Documentation & Legalization
500–1,500
Translation, MoA, and notary services
We always provide transparent cost estimates before registration begins, no hidden or unexpected fees.
Required Documents for Company Formation
Most applications require:
- Passport copies of shareholders and managers
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
- Company application form
- Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Lease or Ejari contract (if applicable)
- Payment confirmation of government fees
Our specialists prepare all required forms, translations, and attestations so your submission is fully compliant on the first attempt.
How We Support Company Formation in Dubai
Our company assists international clients in establishing operations with end-to-end setup solutions.
We provide:
- Tailored consultation on jurisdiction and license type
- Preparation and submission of all legal documents
- Coordination with DET or free zone authorities
- Visa, establishment card, and corporate bank account assistance
We manage the process efficiently, helping you save time and focus on your new business.
Related Guides
Start Your Company with Professional Guidance
Launching a company in Dubai can be straightforward with the right partner.
Our consultants guide you through each phase, from registration and licensing to post-setup compliance, ensuring your new business starts smoothly and securely.
Contact our team today to receive a transparent cost estimate and start your Dubai business setup process with expert support