Business Setup in the UAE
Mainland, free zone or offshore: we help you choose the right structure, give you a written quote and handle the licence, visas, bank account and tax registrations.
- 300+Company formations
- 24Jurisdictions covered
- AED 5,499Packages from
Choose your structure
All three allow full foreign ownership. They differ in where you can trade, how many visas you get and what it costs to run.
Mainland vs free zone vs offshore
| Mainland | Free zone | Offshore | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where you can trade | Anywhere in the UAE, including government work | Inside the zone and internationally; mainland sales through a distributor or permit | Outside the UAE only |
| Ownership | 100% for most activities | 100% | 100% |
| Office | Ejari registered office required | Flexi desk to full office in the zone | Registered agent address |
| Visas | Based on office size | Set by package or facility | None |
| Corporate tax | 0% to AED 375,000, then 9% | 0% on qualifying income if QFZP conditions are met | Resident; must register and file |
| Audit | Required for LLCs and for revenue above AED 50m | Often required at renewal; required for QFZP | Depends on registry |
| Typical starting cost | From AED 15,999 (Dubai) | From AED 5,499 (Ajman Free Zone) | From AED 14,999 |
Starting costs are Balance Brite indicative package prices. Read our full comparison.
From first call to trading
Free consultation
We look at your activity, customers, visas and budget.
Recommendation and quote
You get a jurisdiction recommendation and a written quote.
Licence and visas
We file applications, handle approvals and book medicals and Emirates ID.
Bank, tax and books
Bank account support, corporate tax and VAT registration, and bookkeeping from month one.
Price your setup in under a minute
Business setup cost calculator
Pick a jurisdiction and visas for an indicative total.
Estimated total
Estimate only, for guidance. It is not tax advice for your specific case.
Where our clients set up
Business setup questions
What is the cheapest way to set up a company in the UAE?
Free zones such as Ajman Free Zone, UAQ, SPC and SRTIP offer the lowest starting packages, from about AED 5,499 to AED 6,499 with no visa. The right choice depends on your activity and customers, not only the price.
Mainland or free zone: which is better?
Mainland if you sell to UAE customers or bid for government work. Free zone if you trade internationally, provide services or want lower running costs. Our blog article compares them in detail.
How long does company setup take?
Most free zone licences are issued within a few days to two weeks once documents are complete. Mainland setup usually takes one to three weeks. Visas take another one to three weeks.
Do I have to register for corporate tax after setup?
Yes. Companies incorporated on or after 1 March 2024 must register within three months of incorporation. Late registration costs AED 10,000.
Can you open a bank account for my new company?
We prepare the KYC file and introduce you to suitable banks. Approval is the bank's decision, but a complete file speeds it up.
Speak to our setup manager
Hassam Abbasi manages company setup at Balance Brite. Share your activity, the visas you need and where your customers are, and he will recommend a jurisdiction and give you a written quote.