Choose the Right License for Your Business
Mainland, Freezone, or Offshore — each serves a different vision. Arab First matches you with the right jurisdiction and handles every step of the setup.
Three Paths to Business Success
Mainland License
Full UAE market access
Trade with any UAE customer, bid on government contracts, operate from any location.
- 100% foreign ownership (most sectors)
- Government contract eligibility
- 1,000+ approved activities
- Unrestricted UAE market access
Freezone License
100% ownership · zero tax
Complete foreign ownership, zero corporate tax, fast 48-hour setup. 40+ freezones to choose from.
- 0% corporate & personal tax
- 100% profit repatriation
- 48-hour license issuance
- 40+ industry-specific freezones
Offshore License
Privacy · asset protection
Maximum privacy, global banking, asset protection for international holding structures.
- No public shareholder registry
- Global UAE banking access
- No mandatory annual audit
- International IP & asset holding
Which License is Right for You?
Mainland
UAE-focused businesses
- Retail stores and restaurants
- Contracting & construction
- Healthcare & education
- Bidding on government projects
Freezone
International & digital businesses
- E-commerce & online trading
- Tech startups & SaaS
- Consulting & freelancers
- Import/export operations
Offshore
Holding & investment structures
- Real estate ownership vehicle
- Investment portfolio holding
- IP & trademark holding
- International trading HQ
Licensing FAQs
Can I own 100% of a mainland company?
Yes. Since the 2021 FDI reforms, most commercial and professional activities allow 100% foreign ownership on the UAE mainland. A small number of strategic sectors still require Emirati partnership.
What is the difference between freezone and mainland?
A mainland license lets you trade freely across the UAE and bid on government contracts. A freezone license gives 100% ownership and tax benefits but limits direct mainland trading without an intermediary.
How long does the whole process take?
Freezone licenses can be ready in 48 hours. Mainland licenses typically take 3–7 business days. Offshore incorporation takes 5–10 business days including document notarization.
Do I need to be in Dubai to set up a company?
No. Arab First handles the entire process remotely. You can sign documents digitally and receive your license without traveling to Dubai.
What ongoing costs are there after setup?
Licenses are renewed annually. Mainland licenses require an active office lease. Freezone licenses require annual renewal and (in some freezones) an audit. We handle all renewals on your behalf.
Which license type gives the most visas?
Both mainland and freezone licenses offer employee visas scaled to office size. Offshore companies do not offer residency visas. For maximum visa allocation, a mainland or freezone private office is recommended.
Not Sure Which License? We'll Guide You
Fill the form and our licensing specialist will assess your goals and recommend the best structure for your business.