Book Your Free UAE Business Setup Strategy Session
Schedule a complimentary 30-minute consultation with an Avyanco expert and take the first step toward launching your UAE venture with confidence.
- Free
- 30 mins
- Google Meet/Zoom Call
- UAE Strategy Call • 30 Minutes
What we’ll cover:
- Understand your UAE business goals
- Provide tailored structuring guidance
- Offer a transparent cost estimate
- Walk you through the setup timeline
7 Spot Left
- How It Works
- Select your preferred date and time
- Submit your request
- Attend the meeting and share your requirements
- Receive a tailored business setup solution
- Next Step
- Personal Details
- Entity Location
- Company Information
- Incorporation Timeline
Success Stories
Don't just take our word for it. Hear from entrepreneurs who have successfully established their businesses in Dubai. Learn from their experiences and gain insights into the possibilities that await you.
Nico Razon
Negar Haghshenas
Anurag Malhotra
Sun
Muhammad Hafiz
tulasibabu kamepall
jinesh mehta
I had an excellent experience with this business consultation company. Their team is highly knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely committed to understanding client needs. They provided clear guidance, practical strategies, and valuable insights that helped me make confident business decisions. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking for reliable and result-oriented business consulting.
Ahmad Bilal
I had a great experience working with Avyanco Group for setting up my business in Dubai. The entire process was handled smoothly and professionally from start to finish.
A special thanks to Tanya, who was incredibly helpful, responsive, and clear at every step. She made what could have been a complicated process feel straightforward and stress-free.
I truly appreciated the transparency, guidance, and support provided throughout. I would highly recommend Avyanco Group to anyone looking for reliable and professional business setup services in the UAE.
Nasreen Shaikh Mehboob
I had an excellent experience with Avyanco while setting up my business license and completing the visa process. Their team was highly professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire journey. From the initial consultation to the final approvals, everything was handled smoothly and efficiently.
I truly appreciate their responsiveness, transparency, and attention to detail. I would highly recommend Avyanco to anyone looking to start a business or process visas without complications.
UAE - Company Registration Experts
Chandy Joseph
Dhiren
Astha
Tanya
UAE Business Setup - FAQ
How can I start a small business in Dubai?
To start a business in Dubai, you have to follow these steps.
- First, choose an industry and the business activity you will engage in.
- Next, you must identify the legal structure of your business. Take help from a consultant or lawyer in this step.
- Choose a location, such as the Mainland or a Free Zone, whatever suits your business.
- Apply for a legal trade name.
- Finalise the paperwork.
- Apply for a licence and get initial approvals.
- Register your business and open a bank account.
What is the cheapest option to set up a company in Dubai?
The cheapest option to register a company is the IFZA (International Free Zone Authority). The location offers the cheapest Free Zone and General Trading Licence. You can start your company with AED 12,900* here.
What are the benefits of setting up a business in Dubai?
There are plenty of benefits to starting a company in Dubai, but the key benefit is a Strategic location as Dubai is a trade city that connects different continents, which simplifies the import and export of goods. Therefore, the high-class infrastructure that comes with low corporate tax is a major advantage for investors who want to set up a company in Dubai. Additionally, 100% foreign company ownership is another boost for foreign entrepreneurs because of Dubai’s friendly business environment.
How long does it take to setup a company in Dubai?
The timeframe of opening a company in Dubai is 4 to 5 working days but it all depends on different factors such as your industry and requirements of each licensing authority. Some business activities are quicker than the others but in general, it takes only a few days to setting up a new company in Dubai.
Can you own 100% of your business in Dubai?
Yes, you can own 100% of your business in Dubai. In the past, only Free Zones have allowed 100% foreign ownership of businesses in Dubai. However, with a recent amendment, now foreigners can 100% own an LLC business in Dubai Mainland, too. For more information on this topic, you can visit our complete guide.
Which is the most profitable business to start in Dubai?
These are the most profitable businesses to start in Dubai –
- E-commerce stores
- Digital payments
- IT solutions
- Real estate development
- Tourism services.
Why to start a company in Dubai?
Starting a company in Dubai offers many benefits that are not accessible in other countries. A few major reasons to set up a business in Dubai are:
- Global trading hub allowing you to start an international trading business instantly
- Easy to start a business
- 100% ownership for foreigners
- Low corporate tax and zero individual income tax
- Full profit repatriation is allowed
- Strategic location for business with advanced infrastructure
- Business-friendly laws with a government that supports entrepreneurship
If I set up a company in Dubai and obtain a residence permit, can I travel to other emirates freely?
Yes, the visa issued in Dubai is valid throughout the UAE and allows you to travel to other emirates freely.
How can I obtain my Investor/partner visa to stay in Dubai?
To obtain an investor/partner visa, you must set up your own company in Dubai. You must fulfill all the company registration requirements and obtain a trade license. Next, you have to complete all the immigration authority’s formalities to receive your residency visa.
What kind of business can I set up in Dubai?
You can set up any business in Dubai as long as it’s not illegal as per the country’s law. UAE’s Ministry of Economy allows you to choose from more than 2,000 business activities for your business. You need one of these six licenses to start a company in the UAE:
- Industrial license
- Commercial license
- Crafts license
- Tourism license
- Agricultural license
- Professional license
Can I add/club all the business activities in one business license in Dubai?
No, you can’t include all the business activities in a single business license, as they might require different licenses to operate. You will need a trading license if you are trading goods or products. For manufacturing, a manufacturing license is compulsory, and so on. However, a business owner trading multiple products can also get a general trading license in Dubai. Therefore, different business activities require different licenses in Dubai.
Do I have to renew my company trade license annually in the UAE?
Yes, you have to renew your trade license in the UAE annually. It is also worth noting that you must apply 30 days before the expiry date of the license.
Do small businesses need a license in the UAE?
Yes, all types of businesses require a license to operate legally in the UAE. Operating without a business license is against the law in Dubai.
What are Professional Activities in UAE?
Professional activities are business activities that require a professional license to operate in the UAE. A professional must be qualified or highly skilled to offer such services with relevant expertise. Some professions and services in this category are lawyers, medical experts, legal advisors, business consultants, accounting and auditing service providers, marketers, artisans, and IT service providers.
Do I have to rent an office or warehouse to set up a business in Dubai?
Yes, it is mandatory for businesses to have an office space for a successful business registration process in Dubai Mainland. However, Dubai Economic Development (DED) has offered some leniency to investors and entrepreneurs by issuing virtual office licenses where you don’t need a physical space. Flexi desks are also a good alternative, as you can save a lot of rental costs and have physical space from the beginning. Another option is to get an instant license issued by DED, which does not require office space for the first year.
Do I need a local partner to set up a mainland company in Dubai?
The answer is both yes and no. You do not require a local partner for certain licenses and activities; a foreigner can hold 100% of the company shares. Some examples include professional service providers or small businesses such as coffee shops, consultancy, and salons. However, general trading companies or businesses that require a trading license must have a local sponsor who owns at least 51% of the shares in the company.
What types of business activities are allowed for mainland companies in Dubai?
Dubai Mainland offers more than 2000 business activities from which to choose. These business activities fall into various categories and require respective business licenses to operate, including professional, commercial, industrial, and tourism. However, certain activities are not allowed in the UAE. You must consult with an expert before applying for a business license in Dubai.
What are the visa requirements for employees in a Dubai mainland company?
Foreign employees in the UAE require a standard work visa sponsored by the employer. There are certain conditions that the employer and employer must meet to obtain a standard work visa.
- The employer has a valid operating license
- The employer has no violations
- Employee’s expertise and work is relevant to the company’s business activity
- The employee has a high school diploma
How long does it take to set up a mainland company in Dubai?
The company setup in Dubai Mainland can be done within 5 days. However, depending on the nature of the business and its requirements, it may take a few weeks in certain scenarios.
Can I convert my existing free zone company to a Dubai mainland company?
Yes, you can convert your Free Zone company to a Dubai Mainland company. However, the process is complex, and you must not proceed without expert consultation. As there is no direct transfer option available, you have to cancel your Free Zone license and apply for a new license with DED. You also have to obtain visas, register for VAT, and complete the business registration process again.
Which Free Zone in the UAE is best suited for my business activity?
It depends on the nature of your business and the business activity. Every Free Zone has its own set of regulations and provides certain benefits for specific business activities. You must choose a Free Zone that is the most advantageous for your business operations and requirements. For instance, IFZA is a good choice for ecommerce businesses. On the other hand, DMCC is best for global trading.
Can I own 100% of my Free Zone company as a foreign investor?
Yes, you can own 100% of your Free Zone company as a foreign investor in Dubai.
Are there any restrictions on trading with the UAE mainland from a Free Zone company?
Yes, Free Zone companies cannot trade with the UAE Mainland. Business operations of Free Zone companies are limited to their jurisdictions only. However, you can engage with a local consultant if you wish to expand your activities on the Mainland. Our expert consultants can provide you with the right guidance regarding this issue.
Do I need to be physically present in Dubai or the UAE to set up a Free Zone company?
No, you do not need to be physically present in Dubai or the UAE to set up a Free Zone company. You can easily register and operate your business remotely in a Free Zone without the need for a local partner.
What are the import and export procedures for Free Zone companies in Dubai or the UAE?
You must register with the Customs Office to import or export goods in the UAE. For import, you need certain documents such as an import permit, certificate of origin, import goods declaration form, bill of lading/airway bill, etc. Similarly, to export goods, you need documentation that includes an export permit, declaration of customs clearance, and sales invoice.
Can an offshore company trade within the UAE mainland?
Offshore companies are not legally allowed to trade within the UAE mainland. However, they become shareholders in any of the Mainland companies.
What are the ongoing reporting and auditing requirements for offshore companies?
Offshore companies are exempt from annual audits in Dubai. They do not have to submit their audited financial statements, which helps maintain their confidentiality.
Can I open a corporate bank account for my offshore company?
Yes, you can open a corporate bank account for your offshore company in Dubai. However, the chances of success are slim, and it is recommended that you engage a business consultant to help you out.
What are the annual renewal fees associated with maintaining an offshore company?
The annual renewal fees associated with maintaining an offshore company depend on the jurisdiction, visa renewal charges, and bank account maintenance costs. For instance, a company in RAK ICC has to pay approximately $2200 in annual renewal costs, which includes a Certificate of Good Standing, a formal proof of the company’s renewal.
What types of business activities are allowed for offshore companies in the UAE?
Offshore companies are not allowed to trade in the UAE. However, certain activities are permitted for offshore companies to do in Dubai, such as shareholding in other companies or purchasing and managing real estate. Offshore companies are also allowed to offer wealth management, advisory, consultancy, and brokerage services.
