Setting up a business in the UAE involves several steps, including choosing the right jurisdiction, selecting a business activity, registering the company, and ensuring compliance with all legal and administrative requirements. Our expert team will guide you through the entire process, ensuring your company is established efficiently and in accordance with UAE regulations.
Must Know
Business ownership laws: 100% foreign ownership is allowed in most Free Zones and for many activities in Mainland UAE (subject to activity list and approvals).
Office space requirements: Most Mainland businesses require a physical office and Ejari; some Free Zones offer flexi-desks as a low-cost alternative.
Visa eligibility: Your trade license type and office size affect the number of visas you can sponsor.
Jurisdiction Selection
Your choice of jurisdiction determines your licensing authority, ownership rules, and operational flexibility.
Mainland
Free Zone
Offshore Our consultants evaluate your goals and recommend the best-fit jurisdiction for long-term growth.
Business Activity Selection
Each business activity must be licensed and approved by relevant authorities, and will impact your visa quota, tax liabilities, and documentation needs.
Commercial
Industrial
Professional
Consulting
Digital/E-commerce
License Application
This is the core step where your business becomes legally registered.
License type based on activity (e.g., LLC, Sole Establishment, Branch)
Submission of documents to relevant authority (e.g., DED, Free Zone Authority)
