How to Set Up a Business in Dubai — Step by Step
A complete walkthrough of the UAE business setup process — from choosing your structure on Day 1 to collecting your license and opening your bank account. Arab First handles every step for you.
Four Phases to Launch Day
Planning & Structure
- Decide on license type: mainland, freezone, or offshore
- Choose your business activity from the approved list
- Select legal structure: sole establishment, LLC, or branch
- Plan visa requirements for you and your team
Name & Initial Approval
- Reserve 3 company name options (first available wins)
- Submit initial approval application to DED or freezone authority
- Obtain initial approval certificate
- Draft Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Office & Documentation
- Sign office lease agreement (mandatory for mainland)
- Complete Ejari registration for the lease
- Prepare and attest all corporate documents
- Submit full license application with supporting docs
License & Banking
- Collect your trade license from DED or freezone
- Apply for investor/employee visas
- Open UAE corporate bank account
- Register for VAT (if annual revenue exceeds AED 375,000)
What Does It Cost to Set Up?
Indicative costs — exact fees depend on activity, jurisdiction, and office choice.
| Item | Typical Cost | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| DED/Freezone License Fee | AED 8,000–25,000 | Annual |
| Office Lease (Mainland) | AED 15,000–80,000+ | Annual |
| MOA Drafting & Notarisation | AED 2,000–5,000 | One-time |
| Investor Visa | AED 3,000–5,000 | Per visa (3yr) |
| Medical & Emirates ID | AED 1,200–2,000 | Per person |
| Bank Account Opening | AED 0–5,000 | One-time (varies by bank) |
| Arab First Service Fee | Included in packages | One-time |
What Documents Do You Need?
Business Setup FAQs
How long does UAE business setup take in total?
With Arab First, most freezone setups are complete in 5–7 business days. Mainland licenses typically take 7–14 days. The bank account opening adds 2–6 weeks depending on the bank. Total time from consultation to fully operational: 3–8 weeks.
What is the cheapest way to set up a UAE company?
The most affordable setups are in low-cost freezones like RAKEZ (from AED 7,500) or IFZA (from AED 12,900). These include a virtual office address and 1–2 visas. Mainland setups cost more due to mandatory office lease requirements.
Can I set up a company without a UAE resident visa?
Yes. You can set up a UAE company as a non-resident and then apply for your investor residence visa through the same company. Arab First handles the entire process — you don't need to be in Dubai to get started.
Do I need a local sponsor or agent?
For most mainland and all freezone activities, no local sponsor is required since the 2021 FDI reforms. A registered agent is required for offshore companies. Arab First acts as your registered agent for offshore structures.
Can one person own and manage a company?
Yes. A sole establishment (mainland) or single-member LLC allows one person to own and manage the business. Most freezone setups can also be 100% owned by a single individual.
What taxes will my UAE company need to pay?
The UAE has no personal income tax. Corporate tax of 9% applies to profits above AED 375,000 for most businesses (2023 onwards). VAT of 5% applies to annual revenues exceeding AED 375,000. Freezone qualifying entities may be eligible for 0% corporate tax on qualifying income.
Ready to Launch Your Dubai Business?
Arab First handles the entire setup process for you — choose a package and we'll get started today.