Answers to the most common questions about setting up a business in the UAE. Still have a question? Message StartZone UAE on WhatsApp at +971 58 597 8602 or email info@startzoneuae.com.
How much does it cost to set up a business in the UAE?
Costs depend on the jurisdiction. With StartZone UAE, mainland company setup starts from around AED 18,000, free zone company setup from around AED 12,000, and offshore company setup from around AED 18,500. Final pricing depends on your business activity, the number of visas you need, office requirements, and the latest government and free zone fees. We give you a fixed written quote before you commit.
What is the difference between mainland, free zone, and offshore companies?
A mainland company is licensed by the emirate’s Department of Economic Development and can trade anywhere in the UAE and win government contracts. A free zone company is registered inside a specific free zone, offers 100% foreign ownership and tax incentives, and is ideal for international trade and services. An offshore company is used mainly for holding assets, international business, and confidentiality, and cannot trade inside the UAE market or issue residence visas.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a UAE company?
Yes. Free zone companies have always allowed 100% foreign ownership. Since the 2021 reforms, most mainland commercial and professional activities also allow 100% foreign ownership without a local Emirati partner, though a small number of strategic activities still require local participation. We confirm the ownership rules for your specific activity before you proceed.
What types of trade licence can I get in the UAE?
The main licence types are commercial (trading and general trading), professional (services and consultancy), industrial (manufacturing and production), and tourism. Free zones also issue activity-specific licences such as e-commerce, media, freelance, and holding licences. We match the licence type to your planned activities so you are correctly licensed from day one.
How long does it take to set up a company in the UAE?
A free zone company can often be registered in 3 to 7 working days once documents are ready. Mainland setup typically takes 5 to 10 working days depending on approvals. Residence visa processing usually adds another 7 to 14 working days per applicant. These are realistic estimates; actual timelines depend on the authority and the completeness of your documents.
What documents do I need to start a UAE company?
For most setups you need a clear passport copy for each shareholder and visa applicant, a passport-size photo, and your proposed company name and business activity. Depending on the activity and jurisdiction you may also need a UAE entry stamp or visa page, a short business plan, proof of address, and in some cases attested documents. We send you a simple checklist tailored to your case.
Do I get a UAE residence visa with my company?
Yes. Most free zone and mainland licences come with a visa allocation. As the owner you can apply for an investor or partner visa, and you can sponsor employees and family members. The process includes entry permit, status change or entry, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping. We handle every step through our PRO team.
How many visas can I get with my licence?
The number of visas depends on your jurisdiction and office type. A flexi-desk package may allow 1 to 3 visas, while larger physical offices allow more. Mainland visa quotas are linked to office space. We advise on a package that matches the number of visas you actually need now and later.
Can I open a UAE corporate bank account?
Yes. Once your company is licensed, we help you prepare a complete application and introduce you to suitable local and international banks such as Emirates NBD, Mashreq, WIO, RAKBANK, and ADCB. Banks run their own compliance checks, so approval and timelines are decided by the bank, but strong, well-prepared applications move faster. Corporate account opening typically takes 1 to 4 weeks.
Do I need a physical office to set up a company?
Not always. Many free zones offer flexi-desk or virtual office packages that satisfy the licence requirement and support a limited number of visas, which keeps costs low for startups and consultants. Mainland licences usually require a tenancy contract (Ejari). We recommend the most cost-effective option for your activity and visa needs.
Is there corporate or personal income tax in the UAE?
There is no personal income tax in the UAE. UAE corporate tax of 9% applies to business profits above AED 375,000, with 0% on profits below that threshold and certain qualifying free zone income. VAT of 5% applies to most goods and services. We help you register for corporate tax and VAT where required and stay compliant.
Which free zone is best for my business?
It depends on your activity, budget, visa needs, and where your customers are. Cost-effective options like IFZA, SHAMS, and RAKEZ suit consultants and startups, while DMCC, JAFZA, and DAFZA suit trading and logistics, and DIFC and ADGM suit finance. We compare the right shortlist for you rather than pushing a single zone.
Can I set up a UAE company without travelling to the UAE?
In many cases yes. A number of free zones allow remote company formation where documents are signed digitally or via courier. A short visit is usually needed for biometrics and Emirates ID if you take a residence visa. We tell you upfront whether your chosen setup can be completed remotely.
How do I renew my UAE trade licence?
Trade licences are renewed annually. You will need a valid tenancy or flexi-desk arrangement, payment of the renewal fees, and any updated approvals for your activity. We send renewal reminders and handle the paperwork so your licence never lapses, which avoids fines and visa complications.
Why should I choose StartZone UAE for my business setup?
StartZone UAE, a brand of e People Solutions FZC established in 2021 and based in Sharjah, gives you transparent fixed pricing, honest jurisdiction advice, and end-to-end support from licence to visa to bank account. You deal with experienced consultants, not a call centre. Message us on WhatsApp at +971 58 597 8602 and we will map out your options in about 15 minutes.
