How much does it cost to set up a business in Dubai?

The cost of starting a business in Dubai usually starts from AED 14,999. The final price depends on the jurisdiction (Mainland, Free Zone, Offshore), your business activity, number of shareholders, visas needed, and office space requirements. Mainland setup costs around AED 15,000-25,000+, Free Zone from AED 10,000-18,000, and Offshore around AED 7,000-12,000.

How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?

Company setup in Dubai typically takes 3-10 working days depending on the company type. Free Zone companies can be set up in 3-7 working days, while Mainland companies usually take 5-10 working days depending on required approvals.

Can foreigners own 100% of a company in Dubai?

Yes, foreigners can now own 100% of companies in most business activities in Dubai. Free Zone companies always allow 100% foreign ownership. Mainland companies also now allow 100% expat ownership for most business activities, though some strategic sectors may still require local participation.

What is the difference between Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore companies in UAE?

Mainland companies can trade anywhere in UAE and internationally, ideal for local market access. Free Zone companies offer tax benefits and 100% ownership but are limited to trading within the Free Zone and internationally (need local agent for UAE market). Offshore companies are for international business only with no physical presence in UAE, offering privacy and asset protection.

What documents are required for company registration in Dubai?

Required documents typically include: passport copy of owner/shareholders, visa or entry stamp copy, business name and activity details, and office lease or address proof (if required). Some activities may require additional approvals or certifications.

Can I open a corporate bank account in Dubai?

Yes, once your company license is issued, you can open a UAE business bank account. Requirements vary between banks but typically include your trade license, company documents, passport copies, and business plan. We assist with bank account opening as part of our packages.

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We work closely with government authorities to provide the best business setup services in Dubai and across the Middle East.

Find your setup

What do you want to set up?

Pick the route that matches where you are. Every option below goes straight to the detail: licence types, costs and what we handle for you.

Where do you want to register?

Mainland

Free Zone

Offshore

What do you need done?

What stage are you at?

Not sure? Compare Mainland vs Free Zone vs Offshore Ask us on WhatsApp

First decision

Mainland, Free Zone or Offshore?

This one choice decides your costs, your ownership, where you can trade and how many visas you get. Here is the short version.

Mainland

Trade anywhere in the UAE

Sell directly in the UAE market
100% foreign ownership on most activities
Eligible for government contracts
No limit on visa numbers (office-size based)

Best for

Retail, restaurants, contracting, local services

Explore Mainland

Free Zone

Fastest and most cost-effective

100% foreign ownership
0% corporate tax for qualifying income
Licence in as little as 1–3 days
Ready-made office and visa packages

Best for

Consultancy, e-commerce, trading, freelancers

Explore Free Zone

Offshore

Holding and asset protection

Full confidentiality
No corporate or personal income tax
Own property and shares in the UAE
No physical office or visas required

Best for

Holding companies, international trade, asset protection

Explore Offshore

Still unsure? Send us your activity and we will tell you which one fits.

Ask on WhatsApp

Compare Free Zones

Which Free Zone is Best for Your Business?

The UAE has almost 21 free zones, each built for different industries. The right one depends on your activity, whether you need warehousing or just a desk, and how fast you need to be trading.

IFZA Free Zone

A fast-growing free zone known for affordable packages and investor-friendly regulations. Registration takes 1–3 business days, the immigration card 3–5 days, and the e-visa 2–3 days.

IFZA

DMCC Free Zone

One of the most globally recognised free zones, in Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Formation usually takes 3–5 working days, the immigration card 5–7 days, and the e-visa 2–4 days.

DMCC

JAFZA Free Zone

One of the largest and most established free zones, beside Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum Airport. Incorporation takes 5–7 working days, immigration card 5–7 days, e-visa 3–5 days.

JAFZA

Meydan Free Zone

A popular choice for entrepreneurs who want speed and flexibility. Formation can complete within 2–4 hours of document approval, immigration card 3–5 days, e-visa 1–3 days.

Meydan

Free Zone	Company Setup	Visa Processing	Best For
IFZA	1–3 days	24–48 hours	Consultancy & e-commerce
DMCC	3–5 days	24–48 hours	Trading & commodities
JAFZA	5–7 days	24–48 hours	Import, export & logistics
Meydan	2–4 hours	24–48 hours	Freelancers & digital

Not sure which zone fits? Talk to us

THE PROCESS

How It Works: 4 Steps to Your UAE Licence

Your journey from idea to operating business, simplified.

Choose Your Business Jurisdiction & Activity

Select the right jurisdiction and business activity for your company. Gather all the required documents and make sure they are complete and up to date.

Prepare Documents

Prepare all the required documents and apply for your trade license according to UAE laws and regulations.

Apply for Your UAE Visa

Start the visa process to get the documents you need to live and work legally in the UAE.

Open Your Corporate Bank Account

Set up a bank account in the UAE to manage your business finances and carry out transactions easily.

Start Your Business Journey Today

Already decided?

The things people ask us for most

Straight to the service you need — no forms first.

Need a corporate bank account?

We prepare the file, match you to the right bank and handle compliance questions. Most accounts open in 2–4 weeks.

Learn more

Need residence visas?

Investor and employee visas end to end — establishment card, entry permit, medical, Emirates ID and stamping.

Learn more

Need VAT or corporate tax sorted?

Registration, filing and ongoing compliance so you never miss an FTA deadline or take a penalty.

Learn more

Need PRO and government paperwork?

Approvals, attestations, renewals and translations handled by people who deal with these departments daily.

Learn more

How Much Does It Cost

How Much Does Company Formation in Dubai UAE Cost?

The cost to start your business in Dubai usually starts from AED 12,000, but it can vary depending on several factors.

Starting from

AED 12,000

≈ USD 3,267

The price depends on:

The jurisdiction you choose (Mainland, Free Zone, Offshore)

Your business activity and any special licenses required

The number of shareholders

Visas for employees

Office space requirements

Different business types and setups have their own rules and fees, so costs can vary for each investor. It’s important to plan your budget carefully before starting your company in Dubai.

PRICING

Simple, Transparent Pricing

Choose the package that fits your business needs. All packages include expert guidance and dedicated support.

Basic Package

Pricing plan for startup company

Trade license without visa
MOA (Memorandum of Association)
Certificate of Formation
Flexi Office Address
Property Advice
many more.....

Choose Plan

Standard Package

Perfect for small businesses

Trade License + 1 Visa
MOA (Memorandum of Association)
Certificate of Formation
Flexi Office Address
Establishment Card
UAE Residence Visa
many more......

Choose Plan

Premium Package

Advanced business setup

Trade License + 1 Visa
Corporate Tax Registration
MOA (Memorandum of Association)
Certificate of Formation
Flexi Office Address
Establishment Card
Company Stamp (Digital)
Company Letterhead (if required)
many more......

Choose Plan

Gold Package

Comprehensive enterprise solution

Trade License + 1 Visa
Corporate Tax Registration
MOA (Memorandum of Association)
Certificate of Formation
Flexi Office Address
Establishment Card
Company Stamp (Digital)
Company Letterhead (if required)
UAE Residence Visa
many more......

Choose Plan

Need more visas or a custom setup?

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WHY CHOOSE

Why Choose First Idea Setup for Company Formation in Dubai UAE?

First Idea Setup provides expert company formation in Dubai UAE to help entrepreneurs start their business in Dubai Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore with complete peace of mind.

1000+

Happy Clients

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10+

Years Experience

3-5

Days Setup

Our team guides you through every step:

Choosing the right jurisdiction and legal structure
Obtaining your business license with all paperwork handled
Keeping you informed about annual compliance requirements

We make the process easy and stress-free, and also offer a range of support services to keep your business running smoothly all under one roof.

Why work with us?

1
Experience in multiple industries
2
Personalized attention for each client
3
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

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SUCCESS STORIES

What Our Clients Say

Don’t just take our word for it. See what entrepreneurs who started their businesses in Dubai have to say. Learn from their experiences and discover the opportunities waiting for you.

GULER BESLIOGLU

Client

I had a very positive experience working with First Idea Consultant LLC for opening a bank account in Dubai. The team guided me through every

Alia Sharaf

Client

The team provides excellent support with a professional yet friendly approach. They are always responsive, reliable, and make every step of the process easy to

Tobias House

Client

I cannot express enough how impressed and genuinely thankful I am for the incredible service provided by my partner in setting up companies in Dubai.

Tashi Campbell

Client

All I can say is "beyond exceptional". You not only get support, but they hold your hands throughout the entire process from beginning to end

Romé

Client

I had a very positive experience with Amir. He always responds quickly and is truly an expert in his field. After everything was successfully completed,

Shanza

Client

First Idea Consultant provided very efficient service in processing our UAE Golden visas. Very helpful staff. Totally satisfied by their service.

Ayan Omar

Client

Great consultant very helpful, I really appreciate Sofie who help me through everything I need it.

Ahmad Raza

Client

I had an excellent experience with First Idea Consultant LLC! They provided professional and timely services, handling all my business needs with great expertise. From

Sh Moiz

Client

Excellent services. Ready to help beyond expectation. Mr Amir is fabulous helped almost in everything needed for my business.

Lorand Kadar

Client

Very prompt and professional services. Personal with high qualification and maximum support given. I recommend

Cheng

Client

Best service with helping me setting up the company and apply for my ID thanks to Amir & Sophie.

Abubakar Siddique

Client

First idea consultant are the best business setup advisory company,they help me to open IFZA free zone company and residency visa and specially opening business

Khaled Albraiki

Client

I depend on Amir and his team in first idea consultant for a couple of 2 years now. They provide professional and swift services. their

Jawad Khan

Client

Excellent choice out of many operating currently.Scoring them 5/5 for convenience, trust, timely communication and capability to offer best solution.Highly recommended for company formation and

Tallal Ahmed

Client

One of the very few consultants in the market with the best price and best service.Amir makes the process extremely simple and customises it for

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Frequently Asked Questions

UAE Business Setup - FAQs

It means legally registering your business with the UAE authorities so it becomes a recognized company that can operate and do business.

Choose your business activity.
Decide the type of company (Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore).
Select a trade name and get it approved.
Submit the required documents.
Get your trade license issued.
Open a corporate bank account.
Apply for visas if needed.

Usually 3 to 10 working days, depending on the company type and required approvals.

Typically:
Passport copy of the owner/shareholders.
Visa or entry stamp copy.
Business name and activity details.
Business name and activity details.
Office lease or address proof (if required)

Only for specific Mainland activities that are strategic or restricted for national security reasons. Most business types now allow 100% expat ownership.

Costs depend on the company type and location:
Mainland: Around AED 15,000–25,000+ (depending on office and activity).
Free Zone: From AED 10,000 to AED 18,000 on average.
Offshore: Around AED 7,000–12,000 on average.

Yes. Many Free Zones and Offshore jurisdictions allow remote setup through digital or power of attorney (POA) processes.

Yes, once your company license is issued, you can open a UAE business bank account. Requirements vary between banks.

Yes. Incorporation means legally forming your company.
Trade license is the document that allows your company to start doing business in a specific activity.

Yes, you can add or remove shareholders later through an official amendment with the concerned authority.

Yes, for Mainland and some Free Zones, annual financial audits are mandatory. Offshore companies usually don’t require yearly audits.

You’ll receive your trade license, company documents, and can then apply for visas, bank account, and start official operations.

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