Business setup in Dubai and across the UAE.

The cost depends on four things: the free zone or mainland authority you choose, how many activities go on the licence, how many residence visas you need, and whether you take a flexi desk or a physical office. As a guide, a free zone license starts from about AED 5,750 without a visa, a Dubai mainland license from the Department of Economy and Tourism usually costs about AED 10,000 to 20,000 for the license itself, and a first mainland year with an office and one visa lands at about AED 25,000 to 60,000. Government fees are revised during the year, so Entityz quotes the fee that applies on the day you apply and shows it separately from the consultant fee.

Six steps: choose your business activity, choose mainland or a free zone, reserve a trade name, get initial approval, sign the lease or flexi desk agreement and receive the trade license, then apply for residence visas and open a bank account. Entityz handles each step and quotes the government fees separately.

Yes, foreigners can own 100% of a company in UAE. Free zones have always allowed full foreign ownership. Since 2021, mainland companies also permit 100% foreign ownership for most business activities under the Commercial Companies Law amendments.

Free zone company registration takes 1-5 business days. Mainland license takes 5-10 days. Visa processing requires 7-14 days. Bank account setup takes 2-4 weeks. Complete business setup typically takes 2-4 weeks total.

Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership, customs benefits and 0% corporate tax on qualifying income for a Qualifying Free Zone Person, but limit trading to the free zone or exports. Mainland licenses allow trading anywhere in UAE, working with government clients, and have no local market restrictions.

The best free zones for ecommerce are: IFZA (most affordable, fast processing), Meydan (good for startups), Shams in Sharjah (budget-friendly), DMCC (premium, commodities), and Dubai CommerCity (dedicated ecommerce zone). IFZA and Meydan are most popular for online businesses.

No, you can start a UAE company remotely. Most free zones offer complete online registration. Physical presence is only required for Emirates ID biometrics, visa stamping, and some bank account openings. Many entrepreneurs complete the initial setup without traveling to Dubai.

Required documents include: passport copy (valid 6+ months), passport-sized photos with white background, proof of address (utility bill or bank statement), NOC from current employer if UAE resident, and business plan for certain activities. Entityz assists with all documentation.

UAE Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residence visa for investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent. Eligibility includes: AED 2 million+ investment in property or business, successful entrepreneurs, or exceptional professionals in science, art, or sports.

UAE VAT is 5% on most goods and services. Businesses with taxable supplies exceeding AED 375,000 annually must register for VAT. Some items are zero-rated (exports, international transport) or exempt (residential property, local transport, financial services).

Yes, UAE business owners can sponsor family visas including: spouse, children (unlimited), parents (with salary requirement), and domestic helpers. Family visa costs approximately AED 3,500-5,000 per person and is valid for 2-3 years, renewable.