Types Of Business Setup in the UAE

Mainland Business Setup

Features and Benefits:

1. Perfect for accessing the local UAE market directly: Mainland offers direct access to the UAE market, unlike the other areas like offshore and freezone.
2. Unrestricted trading across UAE and globally: If you wanna trade inside and outside the UAE, then the mainland area is perfect for you.
3. Eligibility for government contracts: Mainland businesses in the UAE can apply for government contracts, something Free Zone companies usually can’t do. This opens up major opportunities to land big projects, boost your brand’s credibility, and grow faster by working directly with trusted public sector clients.
4. Own 100% of your business in many sectors as a foreign investor (Conditions Apply): Lately, the UAE decided to give investors a new opportunity to own 100% of their company without a local sponsor or an Emarati partner, which attracted many investors to come and launch their businesses in the UAE.

Ideal For: Retail, Construction & Real State, Healthcare & Medical Services, Food & Beverage, Logistics & Transportation.

Free Zone Business Setup

Features and Benefits:

• 100% foreign ownership: fully own your company, no local sponsor required.
• Tax exemptions (0% tax rate) in some conditions, which is ideal for investors. 
• Import/Export exemptions: Setting up in a Free Zone means you can enjoy free import and export. With fewer restrictions and great exemptions, trading internationally becomes quicker and more affordable.
• Easy & quick business license: Getting a business license in a Free Zone is super simple and fast. We’ll have all the paperwork done in no time and you’ll be ready to start your business without delays.

Ideal For: Import/Export, E-commerce, Tech, Logistics, Media.

Offshore Company Setup

Features and Benefits:

• Built for businesses that operate across borders, offshore companies are tailored for international trade, not local UAE markets.
• Asset protection: Offshore can safeguard assets from potential legal disputes or economic instability in the owner’s home country.
• Offers tax efficiency: In some cases, offshore offer low or zero corporate taxes, enabling businesses to legally reduce their tax liabilities.
• Low operating costs: No need for a physical office, registration fees are often lower, exemption from VAT in certain UAE conditions, and more.

Ideal For: Holding Companies, International Consulting, Real Estate, Financial Services, Technology and Software Development.

Steps to setup a business in Dubai:

1. Book a free consultation with our experts.
2. We will help you choose the best area for your business.
3. Choose your business activity & get your business license.
4. Open bank accounts & visa processing.