Dubai Business Setup Made Simple
Start, expand, or relocate your company in Dubai Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore with expert guidance, clear timelines, and full government liaison—powered by Westly Global Services.
Why Launch in Dubai?
Dubai is the region’s most connected business hub—strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and competitive taxation. Access Middle East, Africa, and South Asia with a single, pro-business gateway.
0% Personal Income Tax
Attractive tax regime, with corporate tax only applicable above certain profit thresholds per UAE law.
100% Foreign Ownership
Extensive activities in Mainland and all leading Dubai Free Zones now permit full foreign ownership.
Global Connectivity
Operate from a logistics and aviation hub with direct access to 200+ destinations.
Talent & Infrastructure
Hire globally, leverage modern banking, and scale with world-class facilities.
Types of Business Setup in Dubai
Pick the structure that fits your market access, ownership goals, and licensing needs. Each option below links to a full page with costs, timelines, and document list.
Dubai Mainland Company
Trade anywhere in the UAE and internationally, bid on government contracts, and open offices across Dubai.
Explore MainlandDubai Free Zone Company
100% ownership, streamlined licensing, visa quotas, and customs benefits in top Dubai free zones.
Explore Free ZoneDubai Offshore Company
Ideal for international operations, holding, and asset protection—without onshore UAE trading.
Explore OffshoreWhich Option Fits Your Plan?
Feature | Mainland | Free Zone | Offshore |
---|---|---|---|
Ownership | Up to 100% foreign ownership for many activities | 100% foreign ownership | 100% (holding/international) |
UAE Market Access | Full UAE market access | Primarily within free zone & international (onshore via distributor/dual license) | No onshore trading |
Office Requirements | Physical office typically required | Flexi/desk to private offices available | No local office required |
Banking & Visas | Corporate banking + investor/employee visas | Corporate banking + visa packages | Banking (case-by-case) • No UAE visas |
Use Cases | Retail, services, contracting, government tenders | Tech, trading, media, consulting, logistics | Holding, IP, international trade structuring |
Step-by-Step Setup Process
Basic Documents Checklist
Exact requirements vary by activity and authority. We’ll tailor the list during your consultation.
End-to-End PRO & Compliance Support
Government Liaison
DED, MOHRE, GDRFA, Immigration, Free Zone authorities — handled by our PRO team.
Visas & Emirates ID
Investor, partner, and employee visas; medicals, biometrics, and Emirates ID.
Bank Account Opening
Advisory and documentation support for UAE corporate banking.
Tax & Registrations
VAT registration (if applicable), corporate tax readiness, bookkeeping partners.
Lease & Office Solutions
Flexi-desk to private offices; Ejari coordination where required.
Ongoing Compliance
License renewals, establishment card, UBO/ESR guidance, and activity amendments.
Related UAE Services
Scale faster with our dedicated UAE support stack.
PRO Services
End-to-end government paperwork & clearances.
Golden Visa (10-Year)
Eligibility assessment and full-file support.
Investor / Partner Visa
From establishment card to Emirates ID.
Employment Visas
MOHRE quotas, contracts, and onboarding.
Family Sponsorship
Bring spouse, parents, and children to the UAE.
Trade License Renewal
Annual renewals, activity updates, and compliance.
Tourist & Business Visas
Short- and long-term entries for your guests.
Bank Account Assistance
Preparation, KYC guidance, and documentation.
Contact & Location
Set Up Your Dubai Company with Confidence
Get a customized plan for Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore — timelines, costs, and documents mapped to your activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a trade license in Dubai?
Timelines vary by authority and activity. Many Free Zone licenses are issued quickly once documents are complete; Mainland licenses may require additional steps such as tenancy/Ejari. We’ll outline a realistic timeline during your consultation.
Can I own 100% of a Mainland company?
For many activities, yes — 100% foreign ownership is permitted. Some regulated activities may have specific requirements. We’ll confirm based on your chosen activity.
Do I need a physical office?
Mainland typically requires an office (size depends on activity). Free Zones offer flexi/desk and private office options. Offshore companies generally don’t require a UAE office.
Can Westly help with visas and banking?
Yes. We manage investor/employee visas end-to-end and provide banking support and documentation guidance.