Business in Dubai
Start Your Business Setup in Dubai, UAE
Launch your company with expert guidance from ABH Associate, a trusted business setup firm in Dubai with over 20 years of experience. Explore endless opportunities for establishing and growing your business in Dubai and across the UAE.
Business Setup in Dubai With ABH Associates
ABH Associate is a leading expert in business setup in Dubai. With nearly a decade of experience, we assist you in registering, launching, and growing your company with comprehensive support in setup, visas, and taxation. Our skilled team understands Dubai’s business regulations and provides tailored solutions to match your specific needs.
We offer complete assistance throughout the company formation process, including business licensing, visa processing, and PRO services. At ABH Associate, we take pride in delivering fast, secure, and hassle-free business setup solutions backed by our highly experienced consultants in Dubai.
Location Options for
Dubai Company Setup
Dubai Business setup in Freezone
The UAE features more than 46 free zones, each offering simplified business setup options in Dubai. Entrepreneurs enjoy 100% business ownership, fast license approvals, modern infrastructure, flexible office solutions, and corporate tax exemptions for eligible businesses. ABH Associate provides complete business setup services in Dubai, helping entrepreneurs establish and grow their ventures with ease.
Dubai Business setup in Mainland
Business setup on the mainland allows unrestricted trade within the UAE and international markets. Companies can expand operations easily, as there are no visa quotas, making it simpler to hire employees. Only mainland businesses can work with the government, granting exclusive access to public projects. Additionally, most mainland business activities now permit 100% foreign ownership.
Dubai Business setup in Offshore
Offshore companies can only conduct their business activities outside the country. Business and shareholder information is completely confidential, making this a popular choice for business formation in Dubai for high net-worth individuals. There are no tax obligations for offshore companies, ensuring high tax savings.
In 1985, Dubai established the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA), the UAE and Middle East’s first free zone. Starting with only 19 companies, it became the first free zone globally to receive ISO certification within a decade.
JAFZA’s success laid the foundation for numerous other free zones, each offering strategic advantages. Today, these zones host thousands of foreign individuals and institutions that have set up branches or fully owned companies in Dubai. By 2025, Dubai’s free zones have expanded to support sectors such as fintech, AI, manufacturing, and digital commerce.
In 2021, amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law allowed foreigners, foreign groups, or foreign companies to own businesses in the UAE under certain conditions fully. Following this, the Dubai government granted 100% foreign ownership for over 1,000 commercial and industrial activities across the emirate.
| Dubai Mainland | Dubai Free Zones | Dubai Offshore |
|---|---|---|
| 100% foreign ownership (for most activities) | 100% foreign ownership | 100% foreign ownership |
| Can operate anywhere in UAE & internationally | Limited to free zone and international | Cannot operate in UAE market |
| Must have a physical office | Flexi-desk or physical office allowed | No office required |
| Can sponsor unlimited visas | Limited visa quota | Cannot sponsor visas |
| Subject to corporate taxation | Qualifying activities are tax-exempt | No local tax obligation |
| 3-6 weeks to set up | 1-2 weeks to set up | 1 week to set up |
Why Setup a Business in UAE
At ABH Associate, we manage all documentation from start to finish, ensuring your paperwork is completed accurately and efficiently.
100% Control Of Your Business
Full control without needing a local partner in most sectors.
Get Access To A Global Market
Strategic location connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa for international trade.
Fast Company Setup
Quick and efficient business registration in many free zones.
Complete Confidentiality & Privacy Assured
Strong legal protections for business and personal information.
Business-Friendly Tax Regimes
No corporate or personal income taxes in most free zones (where applicable)
No Physical Presence Required
Set up your business remotely without needing to be physically present.
What are the Advantages of Setting up a Business in Dubai?
Corporate tax benefits
Affordable setup costs
Golden visa
0+
Years of Experience
0+
Dedicated Team
0k
Company Incorporations
0k
Consultations
Process of Business Setup in Dubai, UAE
If you work with a business setup company in Dubai like us, this is how we’ll help you:
1. Choose a Business Activity
Our experts can help you select the most suitable business activity for your venture. Schedule a free consultation and share your business idea with us — we’ll guide you through every step of the Dubai business setup process.
2. Pick a Location
You can choose to establish your business in the UAE mainland or within one of its free zones — both offering significant advantages across various industries. Alternatively, you may opt for an offshore setup to conduct business outside the UAE.
3. Apply for a Trade License
Our consultants assist in obtaining all types of trade licenses—including commercial, industrial, and professional licenses. We handle the entire process, from preparing your application to organizing all necessary documentation.
4. Get a Visa
Visa regulations for you, your employees, and family members vary depending on your business type and location. Our experts provide complete assistance at every stage to ensure a smooth and hassle-free relocation to the UAE.
5. Open a Bank Account
Opening a corporate bank account is a crucial step when starting a company in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE. Our consultants maintain strong relationships with leading banks and can manage the entire account setup process for you.
Our Trusted Clients
What Are the Business Structures Under Company Setup in Dubai?
Selecting the right legal entity for your business in Dubai is a key decision. It depends mainly on how many shareholders you have and whether they are individuals (natural persons) or companies (legal persons) registered in the UAE.
| Mainland | Free Zone | Offshore |
|---|---|---|
| Limited Liability Company (LLC) | Free Zone Establishment (FZE) | Single Shareholder Company |
| Sole Establishment | Free Zone Company (FZCO) | Multi-Shareholder Company |
| Private Joint Stock Company | Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC) | Corporate Shareholding |
| Branch Office | Free Zone Branch Office |
Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or an international investor, there are several business setup options in the UAE to choose from:
-
Register a sole proprietorship on the mainland
-
Operate as a freelancer
-
Establish a Free Zone Company (FZCO) in one of Dubai’s 30+ free zones
For trading or contracting activities, a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is often the best choice. It accommodates 1 to 50 shareholders and is ideal for commercial operations.
Businesses with more than 50 shareholders typically register as a Private Limited Company (PLC). For large-scale ventures or public investments, a Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC) may be more suitable, managed by a board of directors representing all shareholders.
Dubai also provides licenses for:
-
Branches or representative offices of foreign companies
-
Regional headquarters
-
Single-family offices (where all shareholders belong to the same family)
Why Choose
A&A Associate for Company Formation in Dubai
01
9+ Years of Proven Expertise in Dubai Company Formation
We can guide you smoothly through the Dubai business setup process. As the UAE’s largest advisory, our expert team knows the rules and delivers solutions tailored to your needs.
02
Tailored Setup Solutions for Every Business Type
We know every business is unique. That’s why we offer tailored solutions for your Dubai setup, whether in a free zone or on the mainland. We guide you through every step of the process.
03
Cost-Effective Setup
We understand that cost matters when setting up a business in Dubai. We offer affordable setup services without sacrificing quality. Our competitive pricing helps you launch your business without overspending.
04
Comprehensive Services
Our company formation services cover everything, from registration to licenses and permits. We also assist with visa processing to make the transition smooth for you and your team.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Question
Why Choose Dubai For Starting A Business?
Dubai stands as a leading global business hub, offering world-class infrastructure, a prime location connecting major markets, tax-friendly policies, political stability, and a diverse, innovation-driven economy. Its dynamic environment, business-friendly setup process, and vast growth opportunities make it an ideal destination for entrepreneurs and investors worldwide.
What Support Does Dubai Offer to Entrepreneurs Starting a Business?
Dubai provides strong support for entrepreneurs through streamlined business setup procedures, flexible licensing options, investor visas, and dedicated free zones offering tax benefits and other incentives. Additionally, government initiatives and extensive networking opportunities help businesses grow and expand successfully.
What Are My Options for Company Formation in the UAE, and How Much Does It Cost?
You can set up your business in Free Zone, Mainland, or Offshore jurisdictions — each offering distinct advantages. Free Zones allow 100% foreign ownership and tax benefits, Mainland companies provide full access to the UAE market, and Offshore entities are ideal for international operations without a physical office. The cost of business setup in Dubai varies based on the jurisdiction, business activity, and license type. ABH Associate offers transparent pricing and customized solutions to help you choose the most suitable structure for your business goals.
What Types of Business Licenses Are Available in Dubai?
Dubai provides several business license options, including Commercial, Professional, Industrial, and Tourism licenses. Each license is tailored to specific activities such as trading, consultancy, manufacturing, or hospitality. ABH Associate guides businesses in selecting the most suitable license based on their industry and operational requirements.
How Long Does Company Formation Take in Dubai, and What Documents Are Required?
The company formation process in Dubai generally takes three weeks to several months, depending on the business type, jurisdiction, and legal requirements. Commonly required documents include passport copies of shareholders, visa copies (if applicable), proof of address, a business plan or company profile, and any industry-specific approvals. ABH Associate provides a comprehensive checklist to ensure a smooth and efficient setup process.