United Arab Emirates
1 Month
Company Set-up time
+$15.000
Total Cost
0%
Tax Rate
United Arab Emirates
PPP: $52.407
Benefits of
Company Set-Up in UAE
100% Foreign Ownership
Unlike mainland businesses, free zone companies allow 100% foreign ownership without the need for a local partner, giving full control to international investors and entrepreneurs.
World-Class Infrastructure
Free zones offer state-of-the-art infrastructure, including advanced logistics, IT services, and modern office spaces, ensuring businesses have everything they need to thrive in a competitive environment.
Tax-Free Environment
Companies operating in free zones benefit from a 0% corporate and personal income tax, allowing businesses to maximize profits and reinvest in growth.
Full Repatriation of Profits and Capital
Free zones offer the ability to repatriate 100% of profits and capital, providing flexibility and security for investors who wish to transfer funds back to their home countries.
Simplified Company Set-Up
Setting up a business in a UAE free zone is typically a quick and streamlined process, often completed in a few days with minimal paperwork, making it easy for entrepreneurs to start their ventures.
Strategic Location and Global Connectivity
The UAE's strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa provides unparalleled access to global markets, enhancing trade opportunities and expanding business reach.
Cost of Setting Up A
Company in UAE Free Zone
+$6.536
Licence Cost
+$1.852
Investor Visa
+$3.486
Ejari/ Address Cost/ year
$5.000
Professional
Fees
Investor
Investor
Shareholders
Shareholders
Spouse
Spouse
Children
Children
Orhun Doğanay
International Property
Investment Expert
Speak to an RCBI Expert
The GMC team has global experts in over 20 countries. We can advise in 14 languages.
Let us help you find the perfect investment migration solution.
Company Formation Process
week 1
Initial Consultation and Business Strategy
Our Process:
During the consultation, our expert advisors will discuss your business goals, investment needs, and ideal free zone location. We help you identify the best free zone for your industry (e.g., Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, Jebel Ali Free Zone) based on legal, logistical, and financial advantages.
Why This Matters:
Choosing the right free zone ensures that your business can operate smoothly with the benefits of full foreign ownership and minimal taxes.
week 2
Choose Business Activity and Structure
Our Process:
We assist you in selecting the business activities you wish to undertake and the appropriate company structure (LLC, branch office, or freelance license). Our legal team will advise you on the best structure for tax efficiency and operational ease.
Why This Matters:
Choosing the correct structure impacts your business operations, legal obligations, and eligibility for specific free zone benefits.
week 2-3
Trade Name Reservation
Our Process:
Our legal team submits your preferred trade names for approval by the free zone authority. We ensure that the name complies with UAE regulations and is unique within your chosen free zone.
Why This Matters:
A clear, approved trade name is essential to proceed with all official company registration paperwork.
week 3-4
Document Preparation and Submission
Our Process:
Our attorneys handle the preparation and collection of all required documents, such as passport copies, visa status, and business plans. We guide you through each step of notarization and attestation for seamless submission to the free zone authority.
Why This Matters:
Accurate and timely submission ensures a smooth approval process and prevents delays in registration.
week 4-5
Issuance of Trade License
Our Process:
After submission, we liaise with the free zone authority to secure your trade license. This allows your company to legally operate within the free zone and conduct business activities.
Why This Matters:
The trade license is a critical legal document required to conduct business operations and finalize office lease agreements.
week 5
Office Space or Virtual Office Setup
Our Process:
Whether you need a physical office space or prefer a virtual office solution, our team assists in securing the necessary lease agreements. Free zones offer flexible workspace options to meet your business needs.
Why This Matters:
A physical or virtual office is often required for visa sponsorship, and it demonstrates a legal, functional base for your company in the UAE.
week 5-7
Visa Processing and Employee Sponsorship
Our Process:
We handle the full visa process for you and any employees, including submitting visa applications, medical checks, and obtaining Emirates IDs. We ensure compliance with UAE labor laws and free zone regulations for employee sponsorship.
Why This Matters:
A UAE visa allows you and your employees to reside and work legally in the UAE, enabling smoother business operations and long-term residency options.
week 7-8
Opening a Corporate Bank Account
Our Process:
Our team facilitates introductions to UAE-based banks and assists in preparing all necessary documents, including your trade license and proof of office space. We guide you through the application process to set up your corporate bank account.
Why This Matters:
A corporate bank account is essential for managing your business finances, payroll, and transactions within the UAE and internationally.
week 5-7
Compliance and Post-Incorporation Support
Our Process:
We provide ongoing legal and administrative support to ensure your company remains compliant with UAE regulations. This includes filing annual reports, renewing licenses, and managing employee visas.
Why This Matters:
Maintaining compliance is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure smooth business operations in the UAE.
Why Choose Global Mobility Capital?
*With Global Mobility Capital, you receive end-to-end support from seasoned professionals who handle every aspect of your company formation. From initial consultation to post-incorporation support, our team ensures that your business is set up efficiently, legally, and in line with your long-term goals.
Reach out Right Now
Our team of experts will reach out to you shortly after send your inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners fully own a company in a UAE free zone?
Yes, free zones in the UAE allow 100% foreign ownership, meaning there is no requirement to have a local partner or sponsor. This makes it an attractive option for international investors.
What are the advantages of setting up a company in a UAE free zone?
Key benefits include zero corporate and personal income tax, 100% repatriation of profits and capital, no import/export duties, and access to state-of-the-art infrastructure with modern office spaces and logistics facilities.
What are the types of companies I can set up in a UAE free zone?
You can set up different types of entities, including:
- Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)
- Branch of a Foreign Company
- Freelance Permit for individual professionals. Each structure offers unique advantages depending on your business needs.
How long does it take to set up a company in a UAE free zone?
The company formation process can take between 1-4 weeks, depending on the free zone, the type of business activity, and the submission of the required documents.
Can a free zone company do business within the UAE mainland?
Free zone companies can operate within their designated free zone or export goods and services internationally. However, to trade directly within the UAE mainland, you will need to work with a local distributor or establish a branch in the mainland.
What are the costs involved in setting up a company in a UAE free zone?
Costs vary depending on the free zone and the type of business. Typical costs include registration fees, office rental (physical or virtual), and visa processing. On average, initial setup costs range from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000, but this can vary widely based on your specific business needs.
What are the visa options for UAE free zone companies?
Free zone companies can sponsor employment visas for their staff, as well as residency visas for shareholders. The number of visas depends on the office space and license type chosen. For example, a physical office may allow more visas than a virtual office.
Can I have a virtual office when setting up in a UAE free zone?
Yes, many free zones offer flexible office solutions, including virtual offices, which are cost-effective for startups and freelancers. These solutions allow businesses to have a legal address without the need for a physical office space.
Is there ongoing maintenance or renewal required for free zone companies?
Yes, you must renew your trade license annually, and some free zones may require annual audits depending on the nature of your business. Visa renewals for employees and shareholders are typically required every two or three years.
Which are the most popular free zones in the UAE?
Some of the most popular free zones include:
-
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) – ideal for trading companies.
- Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) – suited for logistics and manufacturing.
- Dubai Internet City (DIC) – great for tech startups.
- Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) – suitable for media and creative industries.
- Fujairah Creative City – a low-cost option for freelancers and small businesses.