Compare UAE Business Setup Packages

Costs vary by jurisdiction. A basic Free Zone license starts from approximately AED 5,999, which is the entry-level business license package at RAKEZ, UAE. A Dubai Mainland setup generally begins between AED 12,000 and AED 15,000 for the license alone. Please note that visa fees, medical tests, and establishment cards are charged separately. Use our Cost Calculator for a transparent, detailed breakdown and to avoid any hidden costs.

Yes. Following amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, foreign investors can now hold 100% ownership of Mainland companies for over 1,000 commercial and industrial activities. You no longer need a Local Sponsor (UAE National) for most trading and professional licenses, giving you full control of your assets.

The core difference is market access.  A Mainland License allows you to trade directly with consumers (B2C) and businesses anywhere in the UAE and internationally.A Free Zone License is traditionally for international trade or trading within the zone. New Update: As of 2026, Dubai Free Zone companies can now apply for a “Mainland Operating Permit” to conduct business onshore without needing a separate Mainland license.

We can often secure your Trade License in 24 to 48 hours for select Free Zones. The full residency process including the Entry Permit, Medical Test, and Emirates ID stamping typically takes 7 to 10 working days. We fast-track this by managing all government liaison (PRO) work internally.

It depends on the bank. Most Free Zone packages include a “Flexi-desk” which satisfies the legal requirement for your license. However, top-tier UAE banks often require a physical office lease (Ejari) for account approval. We help you navigate this by matching you with digital-friendly banks (like Mashreq NEO or Wio) that accept virtual office contracts.

Visa eligibility is linked to your office size.

Mainland: The Ministry (MOHRE) generally allocates 1 visa per 9 sq. meters of office space.

Free Zone: Packages often come with fixed visa bundles (e.g., 1, 3, or 6 allocations) regardless of physical space. If you need more visas later, you can simply upgrade your package.

Delaying renewal results in monthly monetary penalties starting from AED 250+. More importantly, an expired license can freeze your corporate bank account and automatically cancel any active employee visas, leading to “overstay” fines. We offer an Auto-Renewal Service to ensure you remain compliant without stress.

Yes, it is mandatory. Under the new UAE Tax Law, nearly all businesses (including Free Zone companies and offshore entities) must register for Corporate Tax and obtain a Tax Registration Number (TRN), regardless of their profit level.

However, registration does not always mean paying.

• Businesses with annual profits below AED 375,000 generally fall under the 0% tax rate.
• Qualifying Free Zone Persons may also benefit from 0% tax on eligible income.
• Important: You must still file an annual return to claim these exemptions. Al Arabiya Group’s tax experts can handle this registration for you to ensure you avoid government penalties.