How to start a business and set up a company in Dubai? The step-by-step guide
Seven clear steps from idea to launch, with the indicative cost and the mistakes that cost founders time and money.
Before you start: three decisions
Everyone who wants to open a company in Dubai faces the same questions: what is my activity? Where do I license it? How much will I pay? Answering these three correctly saves you most of the problems later.
This guide puts them in the right order for you. And because it's written by lawyers, we'll tell you what brokers usually leave out.
Steps to start a business in Dubai
- 1
Define your idea and activity
What will you sell or provide? This sets the license type, the authority and the approvals.
- 2
Choose the path
Mainland for the local market, a free zone for international business, or offshore for asset management.
- 3
Reserve the trade name
A unique name that follows the naming rules of the licensing authority.
- 4
Obtain the license and articles of association
You apply, get the approvals and sign a contract that protects your share.
- 5
Prepare the office
A lease contract on the mainland, or a flexible office in a free zone.
- 6
Issue the residency
Residency for the investor, partners and employees after the medical test and biometrics.
- 7
Open the bank account and register for tax
A company account and corporate tax and VAT registration when needed.
The indicative cost for each path
| Path | Starts from | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Mainland | AED 15,000* | Those who sell inside the UAE or take part in tenders |
| Free zone | AED 12,500* | Services, international trade and e-commerce |
| Offshore | AED 9,000* | Asset management and business outside the UAE |
* Indicative prices, for a starting point only — the final quotation is provided in writing, itemised line by line, before any commitment.
Mistakes founders regret
Choosing the cheapest without understanding
A cheap license may not allow your activity or may add fees later.
Forgetting the office
Some authorities require a registered office before issuing the license.
Signing a ready-made contract
A contract that doesn't fit your case can weaken your position in any dispute.
Neglecting tax
Tax registration and returns have deadlines and penalties.
Not reading the quote
Ask for a written quote with every item before you pay.
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 long does it take to start a business in Dubai?
From a few days to a few weeks, depending on the path, the activity and the approvals required.
Do I need a large amount of money to start?
Setup costs start from around AED 9,000, and rise with the activity, visas and office. We give you a written quote with every item.
Can a foreigner set up a company with full ownership?
Yes in free zones, and in most mainland activities. Some activities may require a local partner.
Can I start without being present?
In many cases yes through a notarised power of attorney, but residency requires you to be present for the medical test and biometrics.
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.
Request a callback
Fill the form and our adviser will call you back.