Company formation in Dubai

Business Setup in Dubai: Quick, Clear and Compliant

Establish your business in Dubai, a dynamic business environment in the world. Avyanco is a leading business setup company in Dubai and allows you to set up your company according to competitive frameworks. UAE offers founders and SMEs a platform for growth, and this is why companies decide to set up their business. Get end-to-end business formation services in Dubai, from visa processing to licensing, and build your strong presence.

  • DET-licensed CSP #909402
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  • 11,500+ businesses supported

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Why Dubai

Why Choose Dubai for Setting Up a Business?

Dubai has regional and international markets and provides you with world-class infrastructure access and licensing options to business. The right business setup depends on what you plan to do, who your customers are and how you aim to operate. Here is why businesses decide on business setup in Dubai:

01

Fast and Efficient Setup

Many free-zone licences can be issued within a few working days, but timelines range from about 3 to 14 business days based on your business activity, authority, and documentation. This is the reason why companies decide to set up their business quickly.

02

UAE Tax Advantages

Eligible free-zone companies may pay 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, subject to UAE Corporate Tax conditions; other income is generally taxed at 9%. Hence, running a business in Dubai may provide you with tax benefits.

03

Dubai's Business Environment

Dubai serves a range of industries. It allows you to explore the thousands of business activities, flexible licensing options and company structures to form your business.

04

UAE Economy

By setting up your business in Dubai's robust economy, you can get access to the massive regional markets and find market opportunities in the UAE.

05

Strategic Location

Dubai's strategic location makes it a perfect place to set up your business. Due to its prime location, it can connect Europe, Asia and Africa and provides business expansion opportunities.

06

Full Ownership

Company setup in Dubai provides you with complete ownership for most business activities, subject to activity-specific restrictions.

07

Working with Government Organizations

By having the Dubai mainland licence for your business setup, you can get contracts from government organizations and work on projects valued in dirhams.

08

Sponsorship of Dependents

Those who run their business in Dubai can also provide sponsorship to their family members and employees.

Not sure which option is right for you?

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Choose the advisor who fits your question, pick a day and time that suits you, and we'll confirm with a Zoho Meeting link or a call. No obligation.

Astha Joshi, Senior Business Development Manager at AvyancoCS Astha JoshiSenior Business Development Manager

Helps entrepreneurs choose the right UAE setup, from free zones to mainland options. Guides clients through licensing, visas and company structuring with clear recommendations.

  • Free zone vs mainland guidance
  • Visa and package options
  • Clear, itemised setup quote
Johana Lopez, Business Setup Advisor at AvyancoJohana LopezBusiness Setup Advisor

Helps entrepreneurs set up in Dubai, from choosing the right jurisdiction and licence to planning visas. Advises in English and Spanish, with clear, itemised setup quotes.

  • Jurisdiction matched to your activity
  • Licence and package comparison
  • Advice in English and Spanish
Dhirendra Khadka, Business Development Manager at AvyancoDhirendra KhadkaBusiness Development Manager, Tax & Company Formation

Helps businesses structure their UAE company with practical formation and tax guidance, from free zone and mainland setup to tax registration.

  • Business structure guidance
  • Free zone vs mainland setup
  • Tax registration and next steps
Our services

Our Comprehensive Business Setup Services in Dubai

Our Dubai business setup services are designed to overcome challenges, avail growth opportunities and expand in the UAE. We understand the challenges foreign businesses face in the UAE market. With our extensive knowledge and legal experience, we guide you efficiently.

Our commitment goes beyond market entry and allows you to achieve long-term success and sustainable growth. Our end-to-end business setup services include:

Advisory & Regulatory

We provide you the advisory and regulatory services to help to establish the business with confidence and clarity. We evaluate your business activities, explain the licensing requirements, identify the regulatory obligations and guide you through the approvals.

With the structured roadmap, we can avoid the common compliance issues, avoid delays and build a strong foundation for sustainable growth and smooth operations.

Business Setup & Incorporation

Business setup and incorporation services free your stakeholders to work on crucial matters and run the business smoothly.

Tax

We also give you tailored tax solutions and support you during tax planning, filing, and avoiding liabilities. It helps your business stay focused on growth without the burden of tax complexities.

Corporate Services

Our business setup services in Dubai also include corporate support and handle administrative and regulatory tasks. We allow you to run smoothly and focus on strategic decision-making and expansion.

Business Consulting Services

Hire our expert consultants before setting up your business. It helps you to navigate the regulatory requirements and optimize business operations. It also supports informed decision making, avoids unnecessary expenses, streamline business activities, and creates a practical roadmap to achieve your business goals.

Transactions Advisory Services

Seeking for the guidance on mergers, restructurings, and acquisitions? Get our transaction advisory services, maintain seamless transactions and improve your business value.

Expatriate Tax Return Preparation

We specialize in tax return preparation services and ensure compliance with local regulations. We also optimize the tax benefits for individuals abroad.

Bookkeeping Services

Maintain the accurate financial records of your business by our bookkeeping services. It is part of an efficient business setup in Dubai. It not only keeps accurate financial records, but also maintains compliance and makes informed decisions.

Cost

How Much Does It Cost for a Business Setup in Dubai, UAE?

Starting a company in Dubai is not expensive if you are clear about your business objectives, jurisdiction and other factors. The company setup packages vary as per your requirements.

We provide you with affordable business setup packages without compromising legal formalities and compliance requirements in Dubai. We don't set any hidden charges and provide you with complete transparency in the setup process.

Dubai · DET

Dubai Mainland

From
AED13,900*

Government fees · activity dependent

Local market access. Plan separately: office and Ejari, visas and external approvals.

Setup highlights
  • DET trade licence
  • Business activity and legal-form selection
  • Trade name and approval process
  • Local operations within licensed scope
  • 100% foreign ownership (most activities)
See mainland costs
Dubai

IFZA

From
AED12,900*

Government fees · zero-visa licence

Flexible business setup. Confirm in your quote: workspace, visa allocation and visa fees.

Package highlights
  • Commercial or professional licence
  • Remote company formation
  • Activity selection to suit your business
  • Visa-package options available
  • 100% foreign ownership
See IFZA costs
Dubai

DMCC

From · 1-visa package
AED46,780*

Government fees · premium address

Premium JLT address. Plan separately: additional visas and optional services.

Package highlights
  • DMCC company licence
  • Flexi-desk workspace
  • 1 UAE residence visa
  • Workspace upgrades for more visas
  • 100% foreign ownership
See DMCC costs
Dubai

Meydan Free Zone

From
AED12,500*

Government fees · zero-visa licence

Digital-first setup. Plan separately: visas and immigration services.

Package highlights
  • Trade licence and company registration
  • Multiple business activities
  • Flexi-desk workspace
  • Digital application process
  • 100% foreign ownership
See Meydan costs

Confirm your package: licence, approved activities, workspace, visa allocation and registration documents.
*Indicative government fees as at July 2026, subject to confirmation. Final fees and inclusions depend on activity, package and approvals. Highlights describe available options, not guaranteed inclusions. Visa, immigration, medical, Emirates ID, facility and other charges depend on the selected package. Professional fees are quoted separately; VAT may apply.

End-to-end support

End-to-End Business Support in Dubai

Along with the new business setup in Dubai, we also provide you with licensing services, visa support, and ensure regulations and compliance for your business. Choose from our flexible range of services to meet your specific needs.

Business Licensing Services

13 services
  • Business Setup
  • Initial Approval
  • External No Objection Certificate (NOC)
  • Licensing
  • Activities Amendment
  • Shareholder Amendment
  • Business Name Change
  • Additional Licence
  • Customs Registration (Import Code)
  • Product Registration
  • Private Label
  • Trade Mark Registration
  • Copyright

Visa Processing

8 services
  • Dependent Visa
  • Sponsorship File
  • New Employment Visa
  • Employment Visa Renewal
  • New Investor Visa
  • Investor Visa Renewal
  • Visa Details Amendment
  • Re-Entry Permit Over 6 Months

Compliance & Documentation

11 services
  • PRO Service
  • Document Attestation
  • Translation
  • Bank Account Assistance
  • Wage Protection System (WPS)
  • VAT Registration
  • Corporate Tax Registration
  • VAT Filing
  • Corporate Tax (CT) Filing
  • Audit Financial Report
  • Accounting & Bookkeeping
Jurisdiction

Choose the Right Business Setup in Dubai, UAE

There are different business setup options available, including free zone, offshore and mainland. The right setup to open a business in Dubai is based on your operational model, market and business plan.

Comparison ParameterFree ZoneMainlandOffshore
Ownership StructureProvides 100% foreign ownership without local sponsorshipProvides 100% ownership for licenced activities, subject to regulatory classificationProvides 100% foreign ownership for non-resident entities
Market AccessRestricted from direct mainland trade. Structured access through distributors or branch arrangementsUnrestricted access to UAE domestic marketNo access to UAE domestic market; restricted access to international operations
Operational RequirementsFlexible facility options (flexi-desk, dedicated or shared), visa quotas aligned to package selectionMandatory physical office supported by tenancy registration. Visa allocation linked to office capacityNo physical presence required. Visa eligibility not available
Permitted Activity ScopeLimited to activities approved by the free zone authorityWide activity coverage, subject to regulatory approvals from the licensing authorityLimited scope to holding structures, international trade and asset ownership
Key ConstraintsDirect mainland trading requires additional structuringHigher cost base and compliance obligationsIneligible for residency-linked benefits and UAE market operations

Want guidance to choose the right route for business formation? Consult with Avyanco. We understand your business, evaluate how it operates, where your customers are based and whether you require UAE residence visas. We compare the available options and recommend the right route as per your requirements.

Emirates

Where to Set Up Your Business in UAE

The choice of emirate in the UAE affects cost, regulatory environment, flexibility and long-term positioning.

Choose the right UAE jurisdiction that supports your business activities, expansion plans and budget. Talk to Avyanco experts to compare emirates and free zones and make smart decisions.

Free zones

Popular Free Zones in UAE

UAE offers various free zones where you can set up your business and fulfill industry and operational needs.

DMCC (Dubai)

Suitable for trading and globally oriented businesses.

DMCC setup

JAFZA (Dubai)

Suitable for logistics, manufacturing and large-scale operations.

JAFZA setup

Dubai South

Flexible and scalable free zones for startups and growth-stage businesses.

Dubai South setup

ADGM (Abu Dhabi)

Suitable for structured and institutional business.

ADGM setup

SHAMS (Sharjah)

Suitable for digital, creative, and service-based businesses.

SHAMS setup
Licences

Types of Business Licences in Dubai

Dubai offers various business licences such as commercial, professional, tourism, industrial, and freelance. Here are the different licences we offer for your company setup in Dubai:

Commercial Licence

Hire our business setup specialists to get a commercial licence in Dubai. We provide expert support, fast approvals and complete documentation for a commercial licence.

Professional Trade Licence

We provide you with a professional trade licence in Dubai and allow service-based businesses and individuals to legally offer specialized services such as consulting, design, education, IT, marketing, and more. This licence is suitable for solo entrepreneurs and freelancers.

Freelance Licence

Our freelance permit allows you to work within the issuing authority's jurisdiction and approved activities. Whether you are an artist, photographer, designer or offer other services, you can avail this licence and start a business in Dubai.

Tourism Licence

A travel licence is suitable for the travel, hospitality, or entertainment sectors. It is for tour operators, hotels, travel agents, and related services operating in Dubai.

Industrial Licence

An industrial licence is required for manufacturing, packaging and assembling products in Dubai. We help factories, production units, and industrial workshops apply for this licence to run their business efficiently.

E-commerce Licence

If you are running ecommerce business in Dubai and seek permission to sell services or goods online via platforms or a website, then an ecommerce licence is a suitable option. We offer this licence for dropshipping, online retail, and app-based businesses.

Process

How Do We Work to Set Up Your Business in Dubai, UAE?

Trust our business setup experts at Avyanco, who guide you to setting up a business in Dubai with confidence. We support you in everything from consultation to visa processing and licensing. Here is how we streamline the procedure:

  1. Initial Consultation

    We determine your business requirements, recommend the available licensing options and guide you through the steps required to fulfill the UAE regulatory requirements.

  2. Business Trade Licence

    Next, we identify the suitable trade licence type and jurisdiction for your activities. We prepare the documentation and submit the licence application to the relevant authority.

  3. Visa Application Processing

    We submit the visa applications to authorities and manage the further process for employment, investor and dependent visas.

  4. Bank Account Opening

    Next, we complete the necessary documentation. This ensures that your company records and compliance requirements are fulfilled before approaching the bank.

Documents

Required Documentation for Business Setup in UAE

Setting up a business in the UAE requires the necessary documents, depending on whether you choose the Mainland (Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism) or a Free Zone (such as DMCC or Meydan) structure.

Personal Documents

  • Passport copy
  • Passport-size photograph
  • UAE residence visa copy, if applicable
  • Emirates ID copy
  • UAE entry stamp or arrival details, if required
  • Proof of residential address
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC)

Corporate and Legal Documents

  • Certificate of Incorporation or Business Licence
  • Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/MAA)
  • Board Resolution
  • Certificate of Good Standing
  • Shareholder and ownership structure details
  • Identification documents of authorised signatories

Business Setup and Operational Documents

  • Business plan or company profile, if required
  • Trade name approval
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA), if applicable
  • Local Service Agent (LSA) Agreement, if applicable
  • Tenancy contract or Ejari, if required
  • Flexi-desk or office lease agreement, if applicable
  • Completed company registration application
  • Know Your Customer (KYC) forms
  • Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) details
  • Professional qualifications or sector-specific approvals, if required
  • Attested or legalised corporate documents, if applicable
  • Certified translations of documents, if required

Complete the necessary documentation for company structure and licensing jurisdiction. Let us understand the approvals, documentations and other formalities necessary for your business setup.

Timeline

Business Setup: Timeline?

The timeline for business setup depends on the business activity, document readiness, licensing authority and additional approvals. A clear and accurate application may be processed quickly, but a trade licence does not mean that every post-registration requirement is complete.

  1. Planning
    Choose business activity and legal structure
    Free zone
    Around 1 day
    Mainland
    Around 1 day
  2. Name
    Trade name registration
    Free zone
    Around 1 day
    Mainland
    Around 1 day
  3. Approval
    Initial approval and document submission
    Free zone
    1 to 2 working days
    Mainland
    1 to 2 working days
  4. Licence
    Trade licence issuance
    Free zone
    3 to 7 working days
    Mainland
    5 to 7 working days
  5. Residency
    Visa and Emirates ID processing
    Free zone
    5 to 14 working days
    Mainland
    5 to 14 working days
  6. Banking
    Corporate bank account opening
    Free zone
    1 to 3 weeks
    Mainland
    1 to 3 weeks
Estimated time for company licence
Free zone company
1 to 5 working days
Mainland company
5 to 7 working days
Estimated time for complete setup
Free zone company
Around 2 to 3 weeks
Mainland company
Around 10 to 25 working days

Understand the expected timeline for company registration, licensing and post-registration formalities. Contact us to plan your setup around documentation, approval requirements and business activities.

Why Avyanco

Why Choose Avyanco for Business Setup in UAE

Avyanco supports established businesses and entrepreneurs through company formation and licensing services. Our business setup support is tailored to your jurisdiction, operating plans and ownership structure. Here's what makes us trusted:

Book a Free Consultation
Businesses supported
11,500+
Google rating
4.8
745 reviews
DET-licensed CSP
#909402
  • Highly Responsive & Quick ResultsOur experienced advisors and consultants are punctual. We are just a call or message away when you need experts for UAE business setup. Swift action by our team reduces delays and allows you to start your entrepreneurial journey without waiting.
  • Comprehensive ExpertiseWe also provide you with legal advice, accounting support, licensing services and visa documentation. With professional knowledge and comprehensive expertise, we ensure that every business detail is handled efficiently.
  • Tailored Solutions for Every BusinessWe understand that every business is different. Whether you are setting up a startup, expanding to a new market or forming a multinational enterprise, we serve you. Our tailored business setup services meet your specific needs and objectives.
  • Cost-Effective ServicesOur cost-effective business setup in UAE helps you set up your company efficiently, run operations without compromising quality and save your money. They provide value to your investment in the Dubai business landscape.
  • Expert Guidance Every Step of the WayWe guide you to navigate the UAE legal landscape and manage financials. We also guide you at every stage of business setup and ensure that it stays compliant, secure and ready to succeed in a competitive market.
  • Compliant with Local RegulationsBusinesses need to comply with local laws to operate in Dubai's fast-paced market. Here, Avyanco helps you. Our business setup company in UAE carries the regulatory and legal expertise, allowing you to operate business smoothly and maintain compliance without worrying about legal requirements.
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Questions

FAQs

Can't find your question? Our advisors answer within one business day.

Ask a Question
How much does business formation cost in Dubai?

Starting a business in Dubai costs between AED 5,565 to AED 46,780, based on the type of your business activity and location. Explore our packages with prices and highlights before setting up your business.

How long does it take to form a business in Dubai?

It takes from weeks to months. At Avyanco, we focus on expert planning and simplify the process. We aim to complete the setup within 2 to 6 weeks. Contact us to know more about the exact timeline based on your business requirements.

What are the steps involved in business formation in the UAE?

The steps involved in the business setup process are choosing the business activity, choosing the company name, submitting the application to the authority, getting the initial approval, preparing documentation and paying the necessary fees.

What business setup services do you offer?

We offer end-to-end business setup services, including free zone, mainland and offshore company formation, PRO, visa processing, trade licensing, corporate bank account assistance and tax and compliance support.

How to start my business in Dubai?

Start by selecting the jurisdiction, such as Dubai mainland or a free zone, to set up your business in the UAE. Choose the business activities, reserve the trade name, prepare the documents and apply for trade licences.

What is the minimum cost required for business formation in Dubai?

There is no fixed investment required for many Dubai company types. The required budget depends on your business activity, legal structure, licensing authority, office arrangements and applicable capital requirements. Some of our business setup packages offer low-cost entry options, whereas specialized activities require additional investment. So consult with Avyanco to choose the right business activities and locations, and stay aware of the minimum investment required.

Do you provide ongoing support after getting a trade licence in Dubai?

Yes, we provide you with ongoing support after issuing a trade licence in Dubai. It ensures continued success after you obtain a trade licence. Our team assists you with challenges or needs you experience as you grow your business.

What makes Avyanco different from other business setup service providers in Dubai?

Our comprehensive services and personalized approach make us a reliable business setup service provider in Dubai. We support you beyond the trade licence and serve you throughout the entire business journey. Our professionals offer you tailored solutions, ongoing assistance and expert guidance to ensure that your business thrives after setup.

How to establish a business at low cost in Dubai?

You can start a company in Dubai by comparing the affordable free zone packages, selecting only the relevant activities you need and choosing the right office arrangement. The total cost may vary according to the visa requirements, licence and additional fees. Get in touch with us to explore different business setup options that fit your budget.

What are the tax implications for business setup in Dubai?

The UAE has a 5% VAT and a federal Corporate Tax regime. Corporate Tax is 0% on taxable income up to AED 375,000 and 9% on the excess. Some eligible free zones provide tax exemptions for specific periods, provided they meet the Qualifying Free Zone Person conditions. But compliance with VAT regulations is mandatory when taxable supplies and imports exceed AED 375,000 per year and allows you to run your business efficiently.

Free consultation

Ready to Launch your Business in Dubai? Contact Avyanco Today

Explore how our Dubai expertise can grow your business to new heights. Contact Avyanco today to set up your business with our expertise and pave the way for long-term success.

  • DET-licensed corporate service provider (#909402)
  • Mainland, free zone and offshore compared for you
  • Itemised pricing with no hidden extras
  • Level 36, Burj Al Salam Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

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