Business Setup in Dubai

DUBAI : The world's most connected business hub.

Looking for a better time to start your business, it's now or never.

Business setup in Dubai : A complete Guide

Dubai is a rapidly growing business hub, with a strategic location, business-friendly environment, and world-class infrastructure. It is no wonder that businesses of all sizes are flocking to Dubai to set up shop.

If you are thinking of setting up a business in Dubai, you need to know that the process can be complex and time-consuming. There are many different steps involved, from choosing the right legal entity to obtaining the necessary licenses and permits.

This is where a business setup consulting company can help. We have the experience and expertise to guide you through the entire process, from start to finish. We can help you choose the right legal entity for your business, obtain the necessary licenses and permits, register your business with the government, open a bank account, and obtain visas for yourself and your employees.

Here's how we can Help you
Choose the right legal entity for your business.
Obtain the necessary licenses and permits.
Register your business with the government.
Open a bank account for your business.
Obtain a visa for yourself and your employees.
Business setup in UAE: There's more than you think

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular destination for businesses of all sizes, from startups to multinational corporations. The UAE offers a favorable business environment, with low taxes, few regulations, and a skilled workforce.

There are three main types of business setups in the UAE:

  • Mainland businesses
  • Free zone businesses
  • Offshore companies

The best business setup for you will depend on your specific needs and requirements. If you are not sure which business setup is right for you, then we recommend that you speak to a business setup consultant. A business setup consultant can help you to understand the different options available to you and to choose the best business setup for your needs.

Mainland

Mainland

The mainland in Dubai is the area that lies outside of the free zones and is regulated by the Department of Economic Development (DED). Mainland companies are allowed to trade freely in the UAE and abroad, and they are not subject to the same restrictions as free zone companies. This makes them a popular choice for businesses that want to operate in a more open and flexible environment.

Free zones

Free zones

Free zones in Dubai are special economic zones that offer a number of benefits to businesses, such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemption, and simplified customs procedures. There are over 20 free zones in Dubai, each with its own focus and specialization.

Offshore

Offshore

Offshore companies in Dubai are companies that are registered in a free zone in Dubai, but they are not allowed to trade or operate in the UAE. They are typically used for holding assets, managing investments, or providing tax benefits.

Mainland : The land of opportunity.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular destination for business setup due to its strategic location, pro-business environment, and skilled workforce. Mainland companies are registered with the relevant emirate’s government body and can operate anywhere in the UAE. They are subject to all UAE federal laws and regulations. Mainland companies are a good option for businesses that want to have a physical presence in the UAE and conduct business with both local and international clients.

Here's the catch
Access to the local market:

Mainland companies can operate freely in the UAE market, which is a growing and prosperous economy. This gives them the opportunity to tap into a large and diverse customer base.

Favorable tax regime:

Mainland companies are subject to a relatively low corporate tax rate of 0% to 9%. This can save businesses a significant amount of money on their tax bill.

Flexibility:

Mainland companies have more flexibility in terms of their business activities and ownership structure than free zone companies. This gives businesses more freedom to grow and expand their operations.

Reputation:

Mainland companies are seen as more credible and stable than free zone companies. This can be beneficial for attracting customers and partners.

Free zone: Business, unchained.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular destination for business setup due to its strategic location, pro-business environment, and skilled workforce. Mainland companies are registered with the relevant emirate’s government body and can operate anywhere in the UAE. They are subject to all UAE federal laws and regulations. Mainland companies are a good option for businesses that want to have a physical presence in the UAE and conduct business with both local and international clients.

Here's the Thing
100% foreign ownership
100% repatriation of profits
Zero corporate and personal income taxes
Zero customs duties
Simple and fast business setup procedures
World-class infrastructure and amenities
Proximity to major markets
Access to a skilled workforce
Free zone License : What is it exactly?
What is a free zone license?

A free zone license is a permit that allows a business to operate in a free zone in the UAE. Free zones are special economic zones that offer businesses a number of benefits, such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified regulations.

How much does it cost to get a free zone license?

The cost of getting a free zone license in the UAE varies depending on the free zone and the type of license you are applying for. However, the fees are generally quite reasonable. For example, the cost of a basic license in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) starts at AED 50,000.

Is it worth getting a free zone license?

Whether or not it is worth getting a free zone license in the UAE depends on your specific business needs. However, for businesses that are looking for the benefits of 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, simplified regulations, access to a skilled workforce, and proximity to major markets, a free zone license can be a very valuable asset.

Free zone License : How to get one?
Choose a free zone
Register your company
Apply for a license
Pay the fees
Get your license

Offshore: A investment for your future.


A Dubai offshore company is a legal business entity that is set up in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), but is not considered to be a resident of the UAE for tax purposes. This means that the company is not subject to corporate income tax in the UAE, regardless of where its profits are earned.

Offshore companies in Dubai are often used by businesses that want to:

  • Reduce their tax liability
  • Protect their assets from creditors
  • Operate in countries with strict regulations
  • Conduct international trade
  • Invest in real estate

There are two main types of offshore companies in Dubai:

  • Free zone companies: These companies are registered in a free zone, which is a designated area within the UAE that has its own set of rules and regulations. Free zone companies are not subject to corporate income tax in the UAE, but they may be subject to other taxes, such as import duties and sales tax.
  • Onshore companies: These companies are registered in the mainland UAE. Onshore companies are subject to corporate income tax in the UAE, but they may be eligible for certain tax exemptions.
Offshore: Benefits
Tax neutrality

Offshore companies in Dubai are not subject to corporate income tax in the UAE, regardless of where their profits are earned. This can save businesses a significant amount of money on taxes.

Asset protection

The assets of an offshore company in Dubai are not subject to seizure by creditors in the UAE. This can help to protect businesses from financial difficulties.

Privacy

The shareholders and directors of an offshore company in Dubai are not required to disclose their identities to the public. This can help to protect the privacy of the business owners.

Flexibility

Offshore companies in Dubai can be structured in a variety of ways to meet the specific needs of the business. This allows businesses to tailor their offshore company to their specific requirements.

Location

Dubai, UAE
Office 103, A2
Naser Ahmed Saeed building

New Delhi, India
101 A, NH-19
Sidhartha Enclave,Hainagar Ashram
110014

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