Dubai is no longer just a travel destination; it is the world’s leading hub for entrepreneurs. With Business Setup in Dubai becoming faster, cheaper, and more digital than ever, 2025 is the perfect year to launch your company.

Recent government reforms, such as 100% foreign ownership and 0% personal income tax, have made Dubai the most attractive city for startups and global investors.

Whether you want to launch an E-commerce store, a Consultancy firm, or a Trading company, this guide covers everything you need to know about Business Setup Dubai—from costs and documents to banking and visas.

Why Choose Dubai for Business Setup?

Before diving into the process, it’s essential to understand why investors are flocking to the UAE. The benefits of Company Formation in Dubai include:

• 100% Foreign Ownership: You no longer need a local sponsor for most Mainland licenses.
• Strategic Location: Access to 2 billion consumers across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
• Tax Efficiency: 0% Personal Income Tax and competitive Corporate Tax rates (only for profits above AED 375,000).
• World-Class Infrastructure: Digital government services make running a business seamless.

Step 1: Choose Your Jurisdiction (Mainland vs. Free Zone)

The most critical decision in Business Setup Dubai is choosing where to register. There are three main options:

1. Mainland Company Setup

• Best for: Retail, Trading, Contracting, and businesses that need a physical presence anywhere in Dubai.
• Key Benefit: You can trade directly with local consumers and government bodies.
• Ownership: 100% Foreign Ownership is now available for 1,000+ commercial and industrial activities.

2. Free Zone Company Setup

• Best for: Freelancers, Digital Agencies, E-commerce, and International Trade.
• Key Benefit: Tax exemptions, 100% repatriation of profits, and affordable starter packages.
• Ownership: Always 100% foreign-owned.

3. Offshore Company

• Best for: Holding companies and asset protection.
• Note: Offshore companies cannot trade physically within the UAE.

Quick Comparison:

• Mainland: Trade freely inside UAE & Globally.
• Free Zone: Trade within the zone & Globally (Restrictions apply for local UAE trade).

How to Setup a Business in Dubai (6-Step Process)

At Biz Launch, we have streamlined the complex 12-step government process into 6 simple steps to get you licensed in 48 hours.

Step 1: Select Your Business Activity

The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has over 2,000 approved activities. Your license cost depends on whether you choose “Commercial” (Trading), “Professional” (Services), or “Industrial” (Manufacturing).

Step 2: Reserve Your Trade Name

Your company name must be unique and not violate any UAE public morals. We help you check availability and reserve your name instantly.

Step 3: Initial Approval

We submit your passport copies to the DED to get a “No Objection” certificate, confirming the UAE government welcomes your business.

Step 4: Draft the MOA & Rent Office Space

• MOA: We draft the Memorandum of Association to define your shareholding structure.
• Office: For Mainland, you may need a physical office or an Ejari (Tenancy Contract). For Free Zones, a “Virtual Office” or Flexi-Desk is often sufficient to keep costs low.

Step 5: Receive Your Trade License

Once payments are made, your Trade License is issued! You are now legally allowed to do business.

Step 6: Corporate Bank Account & Visa Processing

This is where most agencies stop, but Biz Launch continues.

• Visas: We apply for your Investor Visa and Employee Labour Cards.
• Banking: We guarantee assistance with opening Corporate Bank Accounts (Wio, Mashreq, etc.) so you can transact immediately.

Cost of Business Setup in Dubai (2025 Estimates)

One of the most common questions is: “How much does a Trade License cost?”

• Free Zone License: Packages start from approx AED 5,750 (License only).
• Mainland License: Starts from approx AED 12,000 (excluding market fees and office rent).
• Freelance Permit: Starts from approx AED 7,500 (including visa eligibility).

Note: Costs vary based on the number of visa quotas and office requirements. Use our [Cost Calculator] to get an exact quote.

Documents Required for Company Formation

To start the Business Setup Dubai process, you generally need:

1. Passport copies of all shareholders.
2. Passport-size photographs.
3. Three options for your Trade Name.
4. Entry stamp or Visa copy (if you are already in UAE).

Why Choose Biz Launch?

While the process sounds straightforward, navigating government approvals can be tricky. Biz Launch is your trusted partner for:

• Speed: Get licensed in as little as 24-48 hours.
• Banking Support: We have partnerships with top UAE banks to solve the “Bank Account Rejection” issue.
• Transparency: No hidden fees. What we quote is what you pay.

FAQs: Business Setup in Dubai

1. Can a foreigner own 100% of a business in Dubai? Yes! Recent laws allow 100% foreign ownership in both Free Zones and Mainland (for most activities).

2. Do I need a physical office? Not always. Free Zones offer “Virtual Office” packages. However, Mainland companies often require an Ejari (rented space) for license issuance, though “Instant Licenses” are an exception for the first year.

3. How long does the process take? With Biz Launch, we can complete the licensing process in 3 to 5 working days.

4. Is it difficult to open a bank account? It can be challenging for new companies, but our team specializes in guaranteed bank account opening assistance.

Ready to Launch?

Don’t let paperwork hold you back. Start your Business Setup Dubai today with the experts.

Call Us: +971 543671516
Email: info@bizlaunch.ae
Visit: Office #12, 3rd Floor, Adidas Building, BurJuman, Dubai.