Company formation
Choose the right company structure in the UAE
The UAE offers three routes to company formation — mainland, free zone and offshore. We help you compare them and choose the one that fits your activity, market and budget.
Three routes, one clear decision
The right jurisdiction depends on where you want to trade, the activity you will carry out, your office needs and how many visas you require. Choosing well at the start avoids costly changes later.
Our consultants assess your plans, explain the practical differences and manage the setup from trade name reservation to licence issuance, visas and bank account opening.
Compare your options
Mainland
Licensed by the economic department of the emirate. Trade anywhere in the UAE, with government entities and internationally, with no geographic restrictions.
Free zone
Licensed by a free zone authority. 100% foreign ownership, simplified procedures and activity-focused zones, with business mainly inside the zone or abroad.
Offshore
A non-resident company for holding assets and international business. It cannot trade within the UAE and does not provide residence visas.
How we set up your company
Consultation
We review your activity, target market and budget, and recommend a jurisdiction.
Name and approvals
We reserve your trade name and obtain initial approval for your activity.
Licence
We prepare the legal documents, arrange your office solution and obtain your licence.
Visas and banking
We process visas and Emirates ID and support your corporate bank account opening.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better: mainland or free zone?
Neither is better in every case. Mainland suits businesses that will serve UAE customers directly or bid for government work; free zones suit international trade, consultancy and businesses that want simpler setup within a specialised zone.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a UAE company?
Yes, in free zones and for most mainland activities. A limited list of strategic-impact activities may still require Emirati participation.
Do UAE companies pay corporate tax?
Yes. UAE Corporate Tax applies to financial years starting on or after 1 June 2023: 0% on taxable income up to AED 375,000 and 9% above that. Every company must register with the Federal Tax Authority; we can guide you through registration.
Related services
Talk to a business setup advisor
Tell us about your plans and we will recommend the right structure, licence and next steps for your business.
