Process for Setting Up a Business in Dubai and UAE
Your Business Setup Journey
Choose Your Business Activity
The foundation of every successful business setup in Dubai begins with choosing the right business activity. The UAE offers thousands of permissible activities under various categories such as trading, professional services, consultancy, tourism, real estate, logistics, and e-commerce.
Your chosen activity will directly determine the type of UAE trade license you need — Commercial, Professional, Industrial, or Tourism License. Moreover, some activities require additional approvals from government authorities such as the Dubai Municipality, RERA, or the Ministry of Health.
At Dhanguard, our expert business setup consultants help you identify the right activity that aligns with your business objectives, market potential, and legal requirements. This ensures that your license perfectly matches your operational goals from the very beginning.
Select the Right Jurisdiction
You can start your business in one of the three jurisdictions in the UAE — Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore. A Mainland company setup allows you to operate anywhere across the UAE and engage in direct business with government or private sector clients. It offers complete flexibility in terms of trade and location.
A Free Zone company setup provides 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified setup processes. It’s ideal for businesses focusing on import-export, international trade, or e-commerce. Meanwhile, an Offshore company setup in Dubai or other Emirates like JAFZA or RAK ICC is best suited for businesses seeking asset protection, confidentiality, and global trading without a physical presence in the UAE.
Choosing the right jurisdiction is critical for long-term success, and Dhanguard’s Dubai business setup experts help you make an informed decision based on your business model, ownership preferences, and operational needs.
Choose a Legal Structure
Selecting the appropriate legal structure is a key step in the UAE company formation process. Your business structure determines the shareholding pattern, liability, profit distribution, and the regulatory framework your business will follow.
The most common structures include:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): Ideal for commercial and industrial activities, offering flexible ownership.
- Sole Establishment: Suitable for individual entrepreneurs or professionals providing services.
- Branch of a Foreign Company: Enables international firms to expand operations into the UAE.
Each structure comes with specific legal implications, so making the right choice early on can save time and resources later. Dhanguard’s team ensures your chosen structure aligns with your business activity, jurisdiction, and long-term expansion goals.
Apply for a Trade License
Once your activity, jurisdiction, and legal structure are finalized, the next step is to apply for your trade license—the official authorization to operate your business in the UAE. If you’re establishing on the mainland, the license is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED). For Free Zones, it is granted by the respective Free Zone Authority (such as IFZA, DMCC, RAKEZ, etc.).
The process includes submitting your application, selecting a trade name, providing necessary documents, and obtaining external approvals (if required). Dhanguard simplifies this entire process by handling all documentation, government approvals, and follow-ups to ensure a smooth and quick license issuance.
With our end-to-end Dubai business setup services, you can focus on planning your operations while we take care of the legal and administrative formalities.
Open a Business Bank Account
After obtaining your trade license, the next crucial step is to open a business bank account in the UAE. A corporate bank account allows you to manage company finances, process transactions, pay suppliers, and handle payroll securely.
However, due to strict compliance policies and KYC requirements, opening a bank account can be challenging for new entrepreneurs, especially for foreign investors.
Dhanguard’s dedicated banking experts assist you in selecting the most suitable UAE bank based on your business type, transaction volume, and nationality. We coordinate with top local and international banks to ensure a high success rate of account approvals, saving you time and effort during this crucial stage of your UAE business setup.
Get Visas and Start Operations
Once your company license and corporate bank account are in place, the final step is to apply for UAE residence visas—both for yourself and your employees.
Depending on your company structure and location, you can sponsor a certain number of visas for partners, staff, and dependents. This involves medical tests, Emirates ID registration, and visa stamping on your passport.
After completing the visa formalities, you can officially begin your business operations in Dubai or across the UAE.
With Dhanguard’s expert PRO and visa services, we manage the entire process efficiently — from document attestation to visa approvals — ensuring you start your business seamlessly and in full compliance with UAE laws.
Our Business Setup Services in Dubai & UAE
At DhanGuard, we offer a range of business setup services to ensure a trouble-free experience for your business setup in UAE.
Company Formation
We provide expert help for business setup in mainland, free zones, or offshore areas, making sure you follow all local rules. Our team makes the process easy, from choosing the right business type to handling all the paperwork for your business setup.
Business License Services
We assist you in acquiring the right licenses for your business setup, whether in mainland, free zones, or offshore areas. Our expert business consultants ensure you choose the correct license type, making your business setup in Dubai fully compliant and ready to operate.
Visa Services
We handle all aspects of UAE residence visas, work permits, and related legal documentation, ensuring a smooth and efficient application process for your business setup in Dubai. Our services include visa renewals, Golden Visa applications for long-term residency, and Freelance Visa options for independent professionals — all customized to your specific business setup in Dubai needs.
Business Bank Account
We assist you in opening business bank accounts with leading UAE banks, ensuring seamless transactions for your company. Our team guides you through the requirements, paperwork, and procedures to ensure a quick and efficient account opening as part of your business setup in Dubai.
Choose the Right Package for Your Business Setup Needs
Basic
Starting from 11,000* AED
- Business Consultation
- 100% Foreign Ownership
- Business License
- MOA
- Free 1 session of VAT consultation
- 0% withhold tax
- Sole Establishment
Popular / economic
Starting from 19,500* AED
- Business consultation
- PO Box
- Trade License
- MOA
- Tax consultation
- VAT consultation
- Sole Establishment
- Flexi desk
- Dedicated relationship manager
- Client base from networking events
Business
Starting from 25,500* AED
- Business consultation
- PO Box
- Trade License
- MOA
- Tax consultation
- VAT registration
- Limited Liability Company
- Co-working space
- Dedicated relationship manager
- Client base from networking events
- Bank account assistance
- Tally accounting software
- 1 year domain subscription
Basic
Starting from 5,500* AED
- 0 visa
- Business Consultation
- 100% Foreign Ownership
- Business License
- MOA
- AOA
- Tax Consultation
Popular / economic
Starting from 13,131* AED
- 1 visa
- Business consultation
- PO Box
- Trade License
- MOA
- Tax consultation
- VAT consultation
- AOA
- Flexi desk (Sourthern Emirates)
- Dedicated relationship manager
- Client base from networking events
Business
Starting from 15,500* AED
- 1 Visa
- Business consultation
- PO Box
- Trade License
- MOA
- Tax consultation
- VAT registration
- AOA
- Co-working space (Northern emirates
- Dedicated relationship manager
- Client base from networking events
- Bank account assistance
- Tally accounting software
- Flexi desk (Sourthern Emirates)
Basic
Starting from AED 11000*
- Flexible Banking Assistance
- 100% ownership
Popular / economic
Starting from 18,000* AED
- Flexible Banking Assistance
- Registered Agent Services
- 100% ownership
- Remote Licensing
Business
Starting from 18,000* AED
- Flexible Banking Assistance
- Registered Agent Services
- 100% ownership
- Remote Licensing
Select the Best Jurisdiction for Your Business Setup in UAE
Mainland Company Formation
Business setup in Mainland enjoys the freedom to operate across the entire country. business setup in Dubai offers a favorable environment with access to diverse investment opportunities and allows you to conduct trade and business activities both within and outside the UAE.
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Free Zone Company Formation
Choose the ideal jurisdiction from over 50+ free zones across the UAE for business setup. Enjoy full foreign ownership into the UAE’s dynamic business ecosystem. Free zone business setup are especially beneficial for multinational companies seeking flexibility and operational efficiency in their business activities.
EXPLORE NOWOffshore Company Formation
Offshore company formation is the ideal solution. It allows you to own and manage a business setup in Dubai remotely, enjoy 100% foreign ownership, and operate within a favorable regulatory and tax environment—all without a physical office in the UAE.
EXPLORE NOWWhy Choose Dhanguard for Your Business Setup in Dubai & UAE?
Our experienced and friendly business setup consultants know everything about business setup in Dubai and UAE. We guide you step-by-step to make the entire process easy and hassle-free.
From company formation and trade licenses to visas and business bank accounts, we offer complete Dubai business setup services under one roof. This all-in-one solution saves you time and effort while ensuring smooth operations.
With a proven track record, we have strong relationships with government authorities and banks. This helps us secure quick approvals, so you can start your business in Dubai and UAE without delays.
We provide clear and honest pricing with no hidden fees. Our reliable support team is always available to assist you at every step of your UAE business setup journey.
Our deep understanding of the Dubai and UAE business environment helps you navigate local laws and regulations with ease, ensuring your business setup complies with all legal requirements.
Our relationship doesn't end once your company is formed. We offer ongoing support, including PRO services, visa renewals, and accounting assistance to keep your business running smoothly.
Our Journey So Far
From startups to enterprises, thousands worldwide trust Dhanguard for business setup, licensing, and compliance in the UAE — so you can focus on what truly matters: Growing Your Business!
We are in Business
Companies we’ve helped to create
Languages spoken
Customer Satisfaction
Contact Our UAE Experienced Advisors Today!
Get complete guidance from our Business Setup consultants. We help you choose the right jurisdiction, activities, cost plan, and visa packages — all without traveling.
- Fast, Affordable & Hassle-Free Company Formation Services
- Get a detailed cost breakdown + best licensing option for your goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Our team of specialists addresses frequently asked questions from individuals worldwide regarding establishing companies in the UAE.
To set up a business in UAE, you need to choose a legal structure, register your company, get approvals from the Department of Economic Development (DED), and obtain all required licenses to operate legally in the country.
You need to follow several steps for company formation in UAE:
- Market Research
- Select justification
- Document Submission
- Open bank account
- Approvals from the authority
Dubai is a leading business hub with a strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies. It offers benefits like zero personal income tax and easy access to global markets, making it an ideal place for entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses.
Some of the best business ideas in UAE include:
- Starting a business consultancy
- Opening salon services
- Launching gym
- Fitness centers
- Perfume business
An investor visa lets you live in the UAE, sponsor your family, open a bank account, and travel easily. You can also apply for a driving license and enjoy tax-free income and business opportunities.
Yes, free zone companies can open business bank accounts in the UAE. However, banks may ask for extra documents like office lease contracts and customer lists. Each bank has different rules.
Mainland company formation in UAE refers to setting up a business with the Department of Economic Development (DED). This type of company allows you to trade and offer services anywhere in the UAE, without location restrictions.
Mainland offers:
- Freedom to trade across the UAE and internationally
- Ability to work with government contracts
- No restrictions on office locations
- 100% foreign ownership in most activities
- Flexible visa options for employees
For mainland business setup in UAE, follow these steps:
- Choose your business activity
- Decide the legal structure
- Register your trade name
- Prepare required documents
- Get approvals from authorities
- Obtain a trade license
Mainland company registration in UAE is usually fast and can be done in about 5 working days. The time may vary depending on how quickly the correct documents are submitted, approvals are received, and required fees are paid.
Foreign employees in the UAE need a standard work visa sponsored by their employer, which requires:
- A valid company operating license
- No employer violations
- Employee’s skills match the company’s activity
- Employee holding at least a high school diploma
Yes, for mainland company formation in UAE, having a physical office space is mandatory. There are many options available for business spaces, including private offices, co-working spaces, and shared offices, depending on your business needs and budget.
A Freezone company in UAE is a business registered within a designated economic zone, offering benefits and simplified setup processes, while allowing trade within the zone or internationally.
Some of the benefits of freezone company formation include:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Zero personal and corporate taxes
- Full repatriation of capital and profits
- Easy and fast company formation
- World-class infrastructure
The cost of starting a Freezone company in UAE varies based on the selected Freezone, type of business activity, license category, and the number of visas needed. Each Freezone has its own pricing and packages, which affect the total setup cost.
Yes, setting up a Freezone company in UAE allows investors, owners, and employees to apply for UAE residence visas. The number of visas you can obtain depends on the company’s size, office space, and the specific license type issued by the Freezone.
No, Freezone company setup allows 100% ownership for foreign investors, so there is no need for a local sponsor or partner. This is one of the main reasons many entrepreneurs choose Freezones for business setup.
An offshore company setup is a legal business entity set up to operate outside the UAE market. It is mainly used for holding assets, international trade, tax planning, and protecting investments, without conducting business within the UAE.
An offshore company in UAE offers benefits like 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, and the ability to own properties or shares in other companies. It is also ideal for international trade and protecting assets securely.
No, an offshore company in UAE is not allowed to conduct business or trade within the UAE market. It is limited to international operations, holding investments, and asset management outside the country, following UAE offshore regulations.
The cost of setting up an offshore company in the UAE varies on:
- Chosen jurisdiction
- Company structure, and
- Additional services (Document attestation or nominee services).
The most well-known Offshore jurisdictions are JAFZA Offshore, RAK ICC, and Ajman Offshore, each offering different benefits and requirements.
There are three types of business licenses :
Yes, having a physical warehouse or industrial space is usually required when applying for an industrial license in the UAE, especially if you’re involved in production, manufacturing, or heavy processing.
To start a trading company, you need a commercial license, business name, legal structure, office space, and initial approval from DED or free zone. You’ll also need to list the products you want to trade.
A professional license covers services like consulting, marketing, IT, healthcare, and more. It allows individuals or companies to legally offer knowledge-based or skilled services to clients in Dubai and across the UAE.
To set up a business in UAE, you need to choose a legal structure, register your company, get approvals from the Department of Economic Development (DED), and obtain all required licenses to operate legally in the country.
You need to follow several steps for company formation in UAE:
- Market Research
- Select justification
- Document Submission
- Open bank account
- Approvals from the authority
Dubai is a leading business hub with a strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies. It offers benefits like zero personal income tax and easy access to global markets, making it an ideal place for entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses.
Some of the best business ideas in UAE include:
- Starting a business consultancy
- Opening salon services
- Launching gym
- Fitness centers
- Perfume business
An investor visa lets you live in the UAE, sponsor your family, open a bank account, and travel easily. You can also apply for a driving license and enjoy tax-free income and business opportunities.
Yes, free zone companies can open business bank accounts in the UAE. However, banks may ask for extra documents like office lease contracts and customer lists. Each bank has different rules.
