See the full cost of your UAE company before you speak to anyone.
Answer five questions. We suggest free zone or mainland, explain why, and list every fee line, so nothing turns up later.
- [Licence / registration no. — TBC]
- [Office address — TBC]
- [Named adviser photo — TBC]
Your 60-second setup check
What goes into the price
Every line you'd pay. Prices appear once confirmed. Until then they show as TBC, and we never show a total built on guesses.
Free zone vs mainland, in plain terms
| Free zone | Mainland | |
|---|---|---|
| Who licenses you | The free zone's own authority | The emirate's economic department (e.g. DET in Dubai) |
| Selling to UAE customers directly | Limited; often through a distributor or extra permit | Yes, anywhere in the UAE |
| Government contracts | Generally not | Yes |
| Foreign ownership | 100% | 100% for most activities; some need a UAE partner |
| Office | Flexi-desk options common | Physical tenancy (Ejari) usually needed |
| Visa allowance | Tied to package / desk size | Tied to office size |
| Best for | Consultants, online, international trade | Shops, restaurants, local services, contractors |
Rules summary for orientation only. Check each row with the licensing authority before launch.
How it works
- Quick checkYou: 5 answers. Us: route + itemised estimate.Time: TBC
- Written quoteUs: every fee in writing, signed off by your adviser.Time: TBC
- DocumentsYou: passport, photo, and visa/EID if a resident. Us: forms and name reservation.Time: TBC
- LicenceUs: submission and follow-up with the authority.Time: TBC
- After setupVisas, bank account introductions, renewals reminders.Scope: TBC
Documents you'll need
Individual shareholder
- Passport copy
- Digital passport photo
- UAE visa and Emirates ID, if resident
- No-objection letter from current employer, if required
Company as shareholder
- Certificate of incorporation
- Incumbency certificate or equivalent
- Memorandum / articles
- Board resolution approving the new company
Foreign documents may need attestation. We'll confirm for your case.
Why people would choose us
Client stories
Questions
Do I need to live in the UAE to own a company?
No. Many owners live abroad. You'll need a residence visa if you want to live here or open some bank accounts.
Free zone or mainland: which is cheaper?
It depends on your activity, visas and office. Take the quiz to see both side by side.
Can I change from a free zone to mainland later?
Often yes, through a new mainland licence or a permit for some zones. Ask us about your zone.
How many visas can I get?
It depends on the package or the office size. The quiz uses your number to size the estimate.
Will I pay corporate tax?
UAE corporate tax applies above a profit threshold, and some free zone income may qualify for relief. Confirm with a tax adviser.
Do you open the bank account?
Banks make the decision. We prepare your file and introduce you. Scope TBC.
What happens at renewal?
Licences renew every year or every few years. We'll remind you ahead of time, and renewal fees will be itemised too (TBC).
Is there a hidden fee?
Our rule: if it isn't on your written quote, you don't pay it.