Setting Up a Company in Dubai: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

This is everything you need to know about setting up a company in Dubai and the UAE business registration rules in 2025

11 March 2025

Since the turn of the millennium, Dubai’s dreaming spires have risen in lockstep with the city’s appeal to global entrepreneurs. Not just the United Arab Emirates but the whole Middle East’s most popular spot for expats, Dubai is humming with foreign capital.

Huge multinationals like ExxonMobil and Mitsubishi have set up Regional Headquarters in the city, attracted by its tax-free incentives, business-friendly policies, free trade zones, gleaming infrastructure and luxury lifestyle offerings. But smaller ventures and solopreneurs are also taking advantage of the Emirate’s network of incubators, VC firms and angel investors to open their companies in the UAE.

If you’re interested in joining them and setting up a company in Dubai, you’ll need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity

The first step in setting up a company in Dubai is to determine your business activity. The Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai provides a list of over 2,000 business activities to choose from. It’s crucial to select the activity that best aligns with your business goals and expertise. Some popular industries in Dubai include trading, manufacturing, consulting, and technology.

When selecting a business activity, consider product-market fit. Some commercial ventures that would work in a Western country might be ill-suited to the different demands of the UAE market. Before you open a company in Dubai, do thorough research on the feasibility and profitability of the activity.

Step 2: Choose Your Dubai Business Jurisdiction: Mainland vs. Free Zone vs. Offshore

When setting up a company in Dubai, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is the jurisdiction in which you will operate.

Companies have the choice of setting up on the Mainland, Offshore, or in one of the many Free Zones. Let’s examine these options and their pros and cons.

1. UAE Mainland (Onshore)

Mainland companies are licenced by the DED and can operate anywhere in the UAE. One of the key benefits is access to the local market, allowing businesses to operate freely across the UAE and engage with a broader customer base. Additionally, UAE mainland companies enjoy flexibility in business activities, enabling them to diversify their services and expand into various sectors without the restrictions found in free zones.

They can also participate in government contracts, which is not possible for free zone companies. Furthermore, mainland businesses can establish multiple branches and choose their office locations freely, enhancing their market presence.

Advantages of setting up a UAE Mainland company

• No restrictions on business activities: Mainland companies can conduct business across the UAE and internationally.
• Access to government contracts: Mainland companies can bid for government projects and contracts.
• No restrictions on office space: Freedom to choose any location for office space.

Disadvantages of setting up a UAE Mainland company

• Ownership Restrictions: Although recent changes allow 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, certain strategic sectors still require local partnership or sponsorship.

• Taxation: Mainland companies are subject to UAE corporate tax, which is set to be introduced in 2023, whereas many Free Zones offer tax exemptions for a specified period.

• Office Space Requirements: Mainland companies must lease physical office space, which can be more expensive compared to the flexible office solutions offered by Free Zones.

• Customs Duties: Importing goods into the Mainland may incur customs duties, whereas Free Zones often offer exemptions on import and export duties.

Setting up a company on the UAE Mainland is best for:

• Businesses targeting the local UAE market.
• Companies planning to engage in government contracts or large-scale infrastructure projects.

2. Dubai Free Zones

Free Zones are designated areas that offer specific economic incentives and benefits. There are over 30 Free Zones in Dubai, including Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

Dubai’s free zones offer a highly attractive environment for businesses, including 100% foreign ownership which allows investors to maintain full control over their businesses without needing a local sponsor. Additionally, these zones offer tax exemptions, including a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, as well as VAT and customs duty exemptions, which significantly reduce operational costs. Businesses in free zones also enjoy full repatriation of profits and capital, enabling them to transfer earnings abroad without restrictions.

Advantages of setting up a company in Dubai Free Zones:

• 100% foreign ownership: No need for a local sponsor.
• Tax benefits: Exemption from corporate and income taxes.
• Simplified setup: Streamlined setup process with less regulatory hassle.
• Customs advantages: Duty-free import/export within the Free Zone.
• Repatriation of profits: Businesses can repatriate 100% of their profits and capital.

Disadvantages of setting up a company in Dubai Free Zones:

• Geographical restrictions: Companies are limited to operating within the Free Zone and internationally; cannot directly trade in the mainland market without a local distributor.
• Office requirements: Must lease or purchase office space within the Free Zone.

Setting up a company in a Dubai Freezone is best suited for: 

• International businesses or startups looking for a streamlined setup.
• Companies in specific industries, such as tech, finance, media, and logistics.

3. UAE Offshore

Offshore companies are primarily used for international business and tax planning. Their jurisdiction will be either the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) or Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC).

Offshore companies in the UAE enjoy zero tax liabilities, including exemptions from corporate, income, and capital gains taxes, which significantly enhance their financial efficiency. Additionally, these companies benefit from high confidentiality and privacy, as shareholder and director information is not publicly disclosed.

Offshore companies can also protect assets by holding them in a secure and confidential manner, providing a legal barrier against creditors.

Advantages of setting up an offshore company in Dubai:

• Asset protection: Excellent for holding assets and intellectual property.
• Privacy: Greater privacy and confidentiality of ownership.
• No taxes: Exemption from all local taxes and customs duties.

Disdvantages of setting up an offshore company in Dubai:

• Operational limitations: Cannot conduct business activities within the UAE.
• Banking restrictions: Some limitations on opening local bank accounts.

Setting up an offshore company in Dubai is best suited for: 

• Holding companies.
• International trading businesses.
• Companies focused on asset protection and wealth management.

Your choice of jurisdiction will rely on the nature of your business, how much you value your ownership structure and whether you wish to trade within the UAE.

Step 3: Select the Right Business Structure

Once you’ve identified your business activity and ideal jurisdiction, the next step is to choose the appropriate business structure for your Dubai company setup. The most common company formation structures for UAE business registration are:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Sole Proprietorship
• Civil Company
• Branch of a Foreign Company

1. Limited Liability Company (LLC) 

An LLC is a popular choice for setting up a company in Dubai due to its limited liability protection, which shields personal assets from business risks. It allows for 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, offers tax advantages with a zero corporate tax environment for most industries, and provides management flexibility. An LLC can have between two and fifty shareholders, making it suitable for businesses with multiple owners or those planning to expand across diverse sectors.

2. Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is ideal for small businesses with a single owner, offering full ownership and control. It provides flexible location options, low startup costs, and simplified decision-making processes. However, it comes with unlimited personal liability, meaning personal assets are at risk in case of business debts or legal issues.

3. Civil Company

A civil company, also known as a professional company, is suitable for service-oriented businesses. It offers a quick and simple setup process, low startup costs, and the ability to apply for multiple visas. Civil companies can have between two and fifty partners, and most professional categories allow 100% foreign ownership. However, certain sectors like engineering require a local partner with a majority stake.

4. Branch of a foreign company 

Setting up a branch of a foreign company in Dubai allows for 100% foreign ownership and offers operational flexibility with relatively simple regulatory requirements. It provides a streamlined market entry into the UAE and benefits from the country’s favorable tax system, with no corporate tax on branch income (except for foreign banks). There is no requirement for a significant initial investment, and profits can be freely repatriated to the parent company.

Each structure has its own advantages and requirements. For example, an LLC offers limited liability protection and can have up to 50 shareholders, while a sole proprietorship is suitable for small businesses with a single owner.

Choosing the right legal incorporation structure for your business is one of the most important decisions you can make when setting up a company in Dubai. It will determine how you deal with profits and losses and how you should organise your resources and assets.

Decide on the specifics of your UAE company formation structure during the initial planning stages. Without a firm decision, you will not be able to apply for your business licence.

Step 4: Choose a Trade Name

Your company’s trade name is its official business name. When selecting a trade name in Dubai, keep the following guidelines in mind:

Guidelines for selecting your trade name in Dubai 

1. Avoid offensive or blasphemous language: Ensure that your trade name does not contain any language that could be considered offensive or blasphemous. This includes avoiding any references to religious authorities or terms that might violate public decency.
2. No religious references: The name should not include the name of Allah or any other religious references. This is crucial to maintain cultural sensitivity and comply with local regulations.
3. Make it unique: The trade name must be unique and not similar to any existing trade names. This is essential to avoid legal issues and brand confusion
4. Ensure it is relevant to your business activity: The trade name should be related to your business activity, so as to clearly communicate your business’s purpose and industry to potential customers
5. Comply with naming conventions: Avoid the use of abbreviations, government agency names, and geographical references unless specifically allowed.

You can check the availability of your desired trade name online through the DED’s e-portal.

Once you receive the approvals, you will have to submit documents to apply for your UAE trade licence and begin the process of opening a company in Dubai.

Step 5: Obtain Initial Approval

Before proceeding with the registration process, you must obtain initial approval from the DED or the relevant Free Zone/Offshore authority.

Initial approval is more than just a procedural step; it signifies the government’s acceptance of your business proposal. It is essential for obtaining a lease agreement for a commercial site and for securing additional approvals from relevant authorities, such as the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), or Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), depending on your business activity.

Documents required

To apply for initial approval, you will need to submit the following documents:

• Passport copies: Provide passport copies of all shareholders and directors involved in the business.
• Proposed trade name: Ensure that your trade name is reserved and approved by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority.
• Business plan: Include a comprehensive business plan that outlines your company’s activities, objectives, target market, financial projections, and strategies for growth

Application process

1. Submit Application: Complete the relevant application form provided by the DED or the free zone authority. You can submit this application online or physically, depending on the authority’s guidelines.
2. Review and Verification: The DED or free zone authority will review your application to ensure compliance with local regulations and licensing rules. This includes verifying the legal form of your company, the type of economic activities you plan to undertake, and the parties involved.
3. Initial Approval Certificate: Upon approval, you will receive an initial approval certificate. This document is valid for a specified period, typically six months, and is a prerequisite for further steps in the business setup process.

The DED/Free Zone authority will review your application and provide initial approval if everything is in order. Initial approval doesn’t automatically mean final approval. Rather, it means you’re on track to establishing your business in Dubai.

You can, however, interpret an initial approval as the UAE Government – via the Department of Economic Development or respective Free Zone authority – expressing its willingness for your company to be established there.

The cost for obtaining initial approval in Dubai is typically AED 120, which includes fees for the application, knowledge, and innovation

Step 6: Draft the Memorandum of Association

The Memorandum of Association (MOA) is a legal document that outlines the company’s structure, objectives, and shareholders’ rights and responsibilities. It should be drafted in accordance with the UAE’s laws and regulations specific to your chosen jurisdiction.

Importance of the MOA

The MOA serves as the company’s constitution, defining its operational scope, governance structure, and shareholder relationships. It is essential for obtaining legal recognition and a business licence in the UAE. Without a properly drafted and registered MOA, a company cannot be formally registered or commence operations.

It’s recommended that you seek the assistance of a legal professional to ensure the MOA is properly prepared.

Whether you operate in a Free Zone, Mainland or Offshore jurisdiction will influence how you construct this document.

Key components of a UAE MOA

• Company Name: The name must be unique and comply with the naming regulations of the UAE. It should not be offensive or religiously sensitive.
• Company Purpose: Detailed description of the business activities the company will engage in. It must align with the categories specified by the DED or the relevant Free Zone or Offshore authority.
• Registered Office: The official address of the company’s registered office in Dubai.
• Capital Structure: The amount of share capital the company will have, including the number and value of shares.
• Shareholders: Details of the shareholders, including names, nationalities, and addresses. For companies registered in the Mainland, such as LLCs, a local sponsor (Emirati partner) owning 51% of the shares might be required.
• Directors: Names and details of the directors and their responsibilities.
• Liability: Statement of the liability of shareholders, typically limited to the amount unpaid on their shares.
• Duration: The term for which the company is incorporated, if not perpetual.

Drafting and Notarisation Process

1. Consultation: Engage with legal professionals to ensure compliance with UAE regulations and to tailor the MOA to your business needs.
2. Drafting: Prepare the MOA in Arabic, as this is the legally binding version. Translations can be provided for non-Arabic speakers.
3. Review and Approval: Shareholders must review and approve the draft to ensure it aligns with their agreements.
4. Notarisation: Submit the MOA to a UAE Notary Public for verification and notarisation.
5. Registration: Record the notarised MOA with the commercial registry of the relevant emirate or Free Zone authority to obtain a business licence

Step 6: Lease Office Space

To complete the registration process, you will need physical office space in Dubai. The size and location of the office will depend on your business requirements and budget. You can either lease an office in the mainland or opt for a free zone, which offers additional benefits such as 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions.

Mainland vs. Free Zone Office Space

Mainland Office Space: Leasing an office in the mainland provides access to the broader UAE market, allowing you to conduct business freely across the country. However, it may require a local sponsor for certain business activities. Mainland offices can be located in various areas, offering flexibility in terms of location and accessibility to local markets.

Free Zone Office Space: Free zones offer several advantages, including 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and streamlined setup processes. They provide a range of commercial properties, from small business centers to large office buildings, catering to businesses of all sizes. Free zones are well-equipped with modern amenities such as WiFi, meeting rooms, and support services, making them an attractive option for startups and international companies alike.

Benefits of Free Zone Office Space

Variety of Options: Free zones offer a diverse range of office spaces, from shared facilities to entire floors, accommodating businesses of varying sizes and needs.

Convenience and Support: Offices in free zones are typically well-equipped with essential utilities, internet connectivity, and access to meeting rooms. Many free zones also provide additional support services, such as administrative assistance and business setup guidance.

Strategic Locations: Free zones are often strategically located near major transportation hubs, such as airports and seaports, facilitating easy access to international markets.

Regulatory Benefits: Besides the tax benefits and foreign ownership advantages, free zones often have simpler regulatory requirements compared to mainland areas, making it easier to set up and operate a business.

Finding the Right Dubai Office Space

When searching for office space, consider factors such as:

• Accessibility: Ensure the location is easily accessible for employees and clients.
• Budget: Determine your budget and choose an office that fits within it.
• Amenities: Consider the availability of necessary amenities like meeting rooms and internet connectivity.
• Scalability: Choose an office space that allows for future expansion if needed.

Step 7: Obtain External Approvals

Depending on the business you are setting up in the UAE, you may need to obtain additional approvals from relevant authorities. For example, if you’re setting up a restaurant, you’ll need to get approval from the Dubai Municipality’s Food Safety Department. Similarly, if your business involves importing or exporting goods, you’ll need to obtain a customs code from Dubai Customs.

Types of External Approvals

Dubai Municipality Approvals: For businesses like restaurants, cafes, or food establishments, approvals from Dubai Municipality’s Food Safety Department are mandatory. This includes ensuring compliance with food safety standards, kitchen design layouts, and other health-related regulations.

Customs Approvals: If your business involves importing or exporting goods, you will need to obtain a customs code from Dubai Customs. This code is essential for clearing goods through customs and ensuring compliance with UAE trade regulations.

Other Government Agencies: Depending on your business activity, you may need approvals from other government agencies, such as the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) for logistics or the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) for utilities.

Non-Government Agencies: In some cases, approvals may be required from non-government entities, such as banks for financial services or embassies for specific international trade activities.

Importance of External Approvals

Compliance with Regulations: External approvals ensure that your business adheres to UAE laws and industry standards, reducing the risk of fines or business closure.

Operational Efficiency: Obtaining necessary approvals helps streamline your business operations by ensuring that all legal requirements are met before commencing activities.

Reputation and Trust: Compliance with external approvals enhances your business reputation and builds trust with customers and partners.

Steps to Obtain External Approvals

1. Identify Required Approvals: Determine which external approvals are necessary for your business based on its activities and jurisdiction.
2. Prepare Documentation: Gather all required documents and information to submit to the relevant authorities.
3. Submit Applications: Apply for the necessary approvals through the appropriate channels, which may include online portals or physical submissions.
4. Follow Up: Monitor the status of your applications and address any queries or additional requirements promptly.

Step 8: Register with the DED/Free Zone Authority

With all the necessary approvals and documents in place, you can now proceed with the final registration process. This involves submitting the following documents to the DED or Free Zone/Offshore authority:

Documents Required for Registration
To complete the registration, you will need to submit the following documents:

Initial Approval Certificate: This document confirms that your business proposal has been accepted by the relevant authorities.

Memorandum of Association (MOA): This legal document outlines your company’s structure, objectives, and shareholder responsibilities.

Lease Agreement for Office Space: Proof of a physical office address is mandatory for all businesses in Dubai.

Passport Copies of Shareholders and Directors: These are required for identity verification and legal compliance.

External Approvals (if applicable): Depending on your business activity, additional approvals from other government or non-government agencies may be necessary.

Registration Process

1. Submission of Documents: Submit all required documents to the DED or Free Zone/Offshore authority. This can often be done through online portals or in-person at designated offices.
2. Application Review: The authorities will review your application to ensure compliance with UAE regulations and licensing requirements.
3. Trade Licence Issuance: Upon approval, you will receive your trade licence, which is essential for commencing business operations in Dubai.

Step 9: Obtain a Corporate Bank Account

To conduct business transactions and manage your finances, you’ll need to open a corporate bank account in Dubai. This step involves selecting a suitable bank and submitting the requisite documents.

Documents Required for Opening a Corporate Bank Account

Most banks in Dubai require the following documents to open a corporate bank account:

UAE Trade Licence: A valid trade licence issued by the relevant authority (DED or Free Zone).

Memorandum of Association (MOA): This document outlines the company’s structure and objectives.

Passport Copies of Shareholders and Signatories: These are necessary for identity verification.

Proof of Office Address: Typically provided through a lease agreement or Ejari contract.

Additional documents may include:

Emirates ID and Residency Visa: For shareholders and authorized signatories, depending on the bank’s requirements.

Board Resolution: Authorising the opening of the corporate account and specifying signatories.

Business Plan or Company Profile: To provide insight into your business operations and financial projections.

Bank Statements: Recent statements from personal or parent company accounts may be requested

It’s important to choose a bank that meets your business needs and offers competitive services. The UAE has many banks, both local and international, to choose from. These include but are not limited to HSBC, Citibank, Barclays, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, and Commercial Bank of Dubai.

Choosing the Right Bank

The UAE offers a wide range of local and international banks, each with unique services and benefits. Consider the following when selecting a bank:

Services Offered: Look for banks that provide services aligned with your business needs, such as trade finance, cash management, or digital banking solutions.

Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the bank’s requirements, including minimum balance thresholds and visa requirements.

Location and Accessibility: Consider banks with branches near your business location for convenience.

Step 10: Obtain Your UAE Visa

To set up a company in Dubai, you typically need a business visa that aligns with your role in the company.

Types of UAE Investor Visas for Setting Up a Company in Dubai

The UAE offers several visas to those setting up a new company or buying a stake in an existing one.

1. UAE Golden Visa

Eligibility: Offers a 10-year residency for entrepreneurs investing at least AED 500,000 in an approved startup idea or AED 10 million in the public sector.

Benefits: Long-term residency without the need for a local sponsor, ideal for significant investors and entrepreneurs.

2. UAE Green Visa

Eligibility: Available for self-sponsorship, suitable for freelancers and those investing at least AED 1 million in the UAE.

Benefits: Five-year residency with the option for renewal, designed for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs.

3. UAE Partner Visa

Eligibility: Offers three-year residencies for partners or significant shareholders in a UAE-based company.

Benefits: Allows for business management and residency in the UAE, requiring company registration and necessary licences.

4. UAE Free Zone Visa

Eligibility: For owners or shareholders of companies established in Dubai’s free zones.

Benefits: Enables operation within the free zone without a local sponsor, offering 100% foreign ownership and tax benefits.

5. Mainland Visa

Eligibility: Requires a local sponsor for businesses operating outside free zones.

Benefits: Provides residency and business opportunities across the UAE mainland

Requirements for Obtaining a Visa

• Passport: Valid for at least six months.
• Business Licence: Obtain a trade licence for your business.
• Company Registration: Register your company in Dubai, either in a free zone or mainland.
• Medical Test: Pass a medical fitness test.
• Background Verification: Complete background checks.
• Financial Documents: Provide bank statements and proof of investment

Steps to Obtain a Visa

1. Determine the Type of Visa: Choose based on your business activity and investment level.
2. Register the Company: Obtain initial approval and a trade licence.
3. Apply for an Entry Permit: Submit your application through the GDRFA or relevant free zone authority.
4. Change Status: If you are already in the UAE on a different visa, apply for a status change.
5. Medical Examination: Undergo a mandatory medical test.
6. Emirates ID: Apply for an Emirates ID, which is essential for residency.
7. Visa Stamping: Once approved, have your visa stamped in your passport.

Step 11: Obtain UAE Visas for Employees

If you plan to hire or transfer employees to your company in Dubai, you’ll need to obtain work visas for them. These are known as labour cards. The process involves:

Steps to Obtain Work Visas for Employees

1. Apply for an Establishment Card:

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) issues establishment cards, which are essential for hiring employees.

This card is required to register your company with the MOHRE and to apply for work permits.

2. Determine Your Labour Quota:

Your labour quota is determined based on your business size and activity. This quota specifies the number of employees you are allowed to hire.

Adhering to your labour quota is crucial to avoid legal penalties around over-employment.

3. Apply for Work Permits and Residence Visas:

Also known as a labour card, a work permit allows employees to work legally in Dubai and the UAE.

Once a work permit is issued, apply for a residence visa, which grants employees the right to live in the UAE.

Submit applications through the MOHRE and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

It’s crucial to comply with the UAE’s labour laws and regulations to avoid any legal issues. If you want to save time and avoid mistakes, our experts can handle the entire visa process for you in record time.

Compliance with UAE Labour Laws

You must ensure compliance with all UAE labour laws, including those related to employment contracts, working hours, and employee rights.

Documentation: Maintain accurate records of employee contracts, work permits, and residence visas to avoid legal issues.

Renewals: Timely renewals of work permits and residence visas are essential to maintain legal employment status.

Tips for Efficient UAE Visa Processing

Plan ahead: Allow sufficient time for the visa application process to avoid delays in hiring or transferring employees.

Documentation: Ensure all necessary documents are complete and accurate to prevent application rejections.

Consultation: Seek advice from visa specialists to navigate the complexities of UAE labour laws and regulations.

Use technology: Centuro Global’s AI-powered Travel Compliance Assistant will give you instant answers for all your UAE visa and work permit needs.

Step 12: Register for VAT

If your company’s annual turnover exceeds AED 375,000, you’re required to register for Value Added Tax (VAT) with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).

The VAT rate in the UAE is currently 5%, and you’ll need to file VAT returns on a quarterly basis. It’s important to familiarise yourself with the tax implications of each business structure in the UAE for financial planning.

Frequently Asked Questions About Setting Up A Company in Dubai

How long does setting up a company in Dubai take?

The process typically takes 2-4 weeks, depending on the complexity of your business and the approvals required. The UAE government states you can set up your company in 15 minutes if you do so online – or in 4 days if you prefer to do so in person.

Can I set up a company in Dubai without physically being there?

Yes, you can set up a company in Dubai remotely through a power of attorney or by engaging a local business setup consultant. Previously, the UAE required that at least 51% of the shareholders in a company reside within the country. However, this is no longer the case under the Amending Commercial Companies Law. Today, you can incorporate an LLC in the United Arab Emirates with 100% of the shareholders residing abroad.

What are the costs involved in setting up a company in Dubai?

The costs vary depending on factors such as business activity, office space, and visa requirements. On average, you can expect to spend around AED 20,000-30,000 for the entire setup process. The cost of setting up a business Dubai depends a lot on the company type and scope, and also where exactly you choose to base it. In a free zone, a one person company is likely to cost around 4,000 USD, while a larger company employing about 4 people who may need visas and office space could cost from around 17,000 USD.

Do I need a local partner to set up a company in Dubai?

In most cases, Dubai allows for 100% foreign company ownership, especially in Free Zones. However, for certain business activities on the mainland, you may need a local partner who owns 51% of the company.

Can I set up a company in Dubai without an office space?

While having a physical office space is a requirement for most business activities, some free zones offer flexi-desk options or virtual offices that can fulfil this requirement.

Dubai Government entities have also launched the Dubai Virtual Commercial City Program for global entrepreneurs and investors. This program allows investors to open a virtual company in the Emirates even if they do not reside in the UAE.

Start Doing Business in Dubai with Expert Help

Setting up a company in Dubai requires handling a fair deal of bureaucracy and procedure. If you don’t want to do it alone, you don’t have to.

Our dedicated legal team on the ground will handle every legal and administrative step in your Dubai company formation journey. We can deal with company formation, visa and immigration applications and expat tax matters. You can track and manage it all through our cutting-edge SaaS platform. If you ever have any questions about any aspect of the process, our Centuro AI tool will give you the latest regulatory information for the UAE on demand.

Let’s get started on your Dubai business plan today.