Launch Your Business in the UAE, the Right Way
From choosing the right structure to licensing, visas and office setup — we handle company formation end to end so you can focus on launching.
Business Formation in the UAE
Setting up in the UAE means choosing between mainland, free zone or offshore structures, each with different implications for ownership, visa eligibility, permitted activities and tax treatment — including whether you can benefit from the 0% Free Zone Qualifying Income rate under Corporate Tax. The right choice depends on where your customers are, whether you need a physical office, and how many visas your business requires.
We guide you through the structure that fits your business, then handle the licensing, registration and setup process end-to-end, so you start trading on solid legal and tax footing rather than needing to restructure later.
Why Getting the Structure Right Matters
The wrong structure at formation can be expensive to unwind — a free zone company that later needs to trade on the mainland, or a structure that doesn’t qualify for the Corporate Tax treatment you expected. Getting the mainland, free zone or offshore decision right from the start avoids restructuring costs and lost time down the line, and sets you up correctly for VAT and Corporate Tax registration from day one.
Documents Required for Business Formation
- Passport copies — for all shareholders and directors.
- Business activity description — what the company will do, to determine licensing and jurisdiction.
- Proposed trade name options — for name reservation with the relevant authority.
- Proof of address — for shareholders and directors, where required.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) — where a shareholder currently holds a UAE residence visa under another sponsor.
- Business plan — for certain licence categories or free zones that require one.
Business Formation Services
Everything you need to get your UAE business up and running.
Business Structure Advisory
Determine the best entity type for your goals — LLC, Free Zone, Branch or Offshore.
Learn more →Licensing & Registration
Expedited approvals from the relevant authorities to get you operational.
Learn more →Compliance Advisory
Ensure your new business meets UAE regulatory requirements from day one.
Learn more →What Sets Us Apart
Local expertise with a genuinely client-first approach.
Tailored Solutions
Every business is unique — we customize our approach to your goals.
Speed & Efficiency
Get operational faster with our streamlined processes and local expertise.
End-to-End Support
From licensing to visas to bank account setup, we handle it all.
A Simple, Transparent Process
From first conversation to ongoing support, here’s what working with us looks like.
Initial Consultation
We understand your business goals and requirements.
Strategic Planning
Advice on entity type, jurisdiction and licensing needs.
Documentation & Approval
We manage all legal and regulatory paperwork.
Setup & Launch
Office space, PRO services and staffing support to get you operational.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I set up in a free zone or on the mainland?
It depends on your business activity, target market and ownership goals. Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership and streamlined setup; mainland companies can trade freely across the UAE. We assess your specific case and recommend the right fit.
Can I have 100% foreign ownership of my UAE company?
Yes, in most sectors, both free zone entities and many mainland business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership.
How long does company formation take?
Many free zone setups can be completed within one to three weeks once documents are ready. Timelines vary by jurisdiction and business activity.
What visas are included with business formation?
Visa quotas depend on your license type, jurisdiction and office space. We handle the full visa and PRO process for you and your employees.
What does business formation cost?
Costs vary by jurisdiction, activity and visa requirements. Visit our Pricing page for indicative fees, or contact us for an exact quote.
Ready to launch your UAE business?
Talk to our experts today — no obligation, no jargon, just clear advice.