Company setup in Dubai under lawyers' supervision — from license to contracts
We choose the right activity, license and location with you, and handle every procedure until the license is issued. You know the full cost from a written quote before you commit.
How do you set up a company in Dubai?
Setting up a company in Dubai comes down to three decisions: the company type (mainland, free zone or offshore), the business activity, and the location. Any wrong choice means extra fees or amendments later.
We start with a short session to understand your project, then recommend the best path and give you the cost and expected timeline in writing.
- Full foreign ownership in most activities
- A trade license with one or more activities
- Residency for the investor, partners and employees
- A company bank account and tax registration
What we handle on your behalf
One team responsible for every step, from the first consultation until you start operating.
Choosing the activity and license
We identify the right activity for your idea, reserve the trade name and prepare the license file.
Choosing the location
Mainland, free zone or offshore — we compare the cost and benefits before you decide.
Articles of association and notarisation
Specialist lawyers draft the articles of association and have them notarised to protect your share.
Residency and visas
We prepare the residency files for the investor, partners and employees and follow them up until issuance.
The bank account
We prepare your file the way banks want it and accompany you until the account is opened.
Tax and accounting
Corporate tax and VAT registration, and regular books from day one.
The company setup steps in brief
- 1
Free consultation
We understand your activity and goals in 30 minutes.
- 2
Choosing the path
We recommend mainland, free zone or offshore.
- 3
A written quote
The full, itemised cost before any commitment.
- 4
Applications and approvals
We submit the applications and follow up with the authorities.
- 5
License and contract
You receive your license and the notarised articles of association.
- 6
Residency and bank
We complete the residencies and the bank account opening.
Mainland or free zone?
A quick comparison to help you choose.
| Mainland | Free zone | |
|---|---|---|
| Dealing with the local market | Direct and unrestricted | Limited and needs extra arrangements |
| Foreign ownership | Full in most activities | Full, 100% |
| Office | Usually an office lease | A flexible or shared office is available |
| Setup time | Usually weeks | Usually a few days to a few weeks |
| Best for | Trade, services inside the country and tenders | International business, services and e-commerce |
The information is general and varies by activity and authority — we confirm the details in the consultation.
Learn more
Talk to a lawyer before you sign anything.
Thirty minutes with a formation adviser — we understand your venture and map the right path and the real cost. No obligation.
Common questions, clear answers.
How much does it cost to set up a company in Dubai?
Indicative starting prices are AED 9,000 for offshore, AED 12,500 for a free zone and AED 15,000 for mainland, varying by activity and number of visas. We give you a written, itemised quote before any commitment.
How long does setup take?
From a few days to a few weeks, depending on the licensing authority and the activity. We give you the realistic timeline for your case in the free consultation.
Can I set up a company in Dubai without being in the UAE?
In many cases yes, through a notarised power of attorney that we follow up for you. Some residency steps, such as the medical test and biometrics, require you to be present.
Do I need an office to set up the company?
On the mainland you usually need an office lease; in free zones, flexible or shared office options are available at a lower cost.
Do you help with the bank account and residency?
Yes. We prepare the bank account file and accompany you to the interview, and we follow the residency files until issuance. The decision to open the account rests with the bank.
Thirty minutes with a formation adviser. No obligation.
Your first consultation is free.
Tell us about your idea — we reply within working hours with a clear roadmap.
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