Company setup
Company setup in Dubai, done properly.
We recommend the right structure, licence activity and jurisdiction, prepare every document and manage the approvals, so your company is registered correctly the first time.
Who it is for
Founders, SMEs and investors who want a UAE company without learning every procedure themselves. Whether you need a Free Zone licence for a consultancy or a Mainland company that trades across the UAE, we start from what you plan to do.
What is included
- Structure, jurisdiction and licence activity advice
- Trade name reservation and initial approvals
- Preparation and submission of all documents
- Memorandum of Association and company registration
- Establishment card and immigration file
- Power of Attorney arrangements if you are abroad
- Introductions for visas and bank accounts
The steps
01
Consultation and recommendation
We compare Free Zone and Mainland options for your activity, number of visas and budget.
02
Itemised quote and checklist
You approve a quote that lists government and service fees separately, with a document checklist.
03
Application and approvals
We reserve the trade name, file the application and follow it through every authority.
04
Licence issued
You receive your licence and company documents, and we move straight on to visas and banking.
Typical timeframe
- Free Zone licence: often 1 to 3 weeks once documents are complete
- Mainland licence: often 2 to 6 weeks, longer for activities that need external approvals
- Establishment card: usually a few working days after the licence
These are typical ranges, not promises. Your quote states the realistic timeline for your case and the conditions behind it.
Documents you will need
- Passport copies for all shareholders and managers
- Passport-size photographs
- Proof of residential address
- A short description of your planned activity
- Corporate documents, attested where required, if a company is a shareholder
You receive a full checklist for your case with your quote.
Common questions
Free Zone or Mainland: which is right for me?
It depends on where your customers are, the activity you need and how many visas you plan. Free Zone companies suit many international and service businesses; Mainland companies can trade directly across the UAE market. We compare both for your activity.
Can I own 100% of my company?
Many activities now allow full foreign ownership on the Mainland as well as in Free Zones, but some activities still have conditions. We confirm the position for your activity before you apply.
Do I need an office?
Every licence needs a registered address. Many Free Zones offer flexible desk packages; Mainland companies usually need a registered lease. Visa allocations can depend on the space you take.
Can I add activities later?
Yes. We can add activities, amend your licence or open a branch as your business grows.
Talk to a setup advisor
Tell us what you are planning. Your advisor replies within one working day with the right structure, a realistic timeline and an itemised quote.
- A 30-minute call with a setup advisor, in person, by phone or video
- The structure, licence and jurisdiction that suit your activity
- An itemised quote with government and service fees shown separately
Prefer to chat? Message a setup advisor on WhatsApp.