Business Setup in Dubai – Let’s Get Your Dream Started

The Dubai business setup cost can vary depending on several factors, including the type of business, jurisdiction (mainland or free zone), industry, office space, and the number of employees. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs involved in starting a company in Dubai:

Business Setup Fees

• Trade License Fees – This can range between AED 5,000 to AED 50,000 or more, depending on the nature of your business and the jurisdiction you choose.
• Company Formation Fees – The cost of registering your company typically falls between AED 10,000 and AED 30,000, varying with the business structure and location.

Office Space

• Rent – Office space rental in Dubai can vary widely based on the location and amenities. Expect to pay between AED 50 to AED 200 per square foot per year or more for prime locations.
• Utilities and Service Charges – Electricity, water, internet, and maintenance fees can add up, contributing to the overall operational costs.

Visa and Labor Costs

• Employment Entry Permits – Each employee’s permit can cost between AED 3,000 and AED 5,000 or more.
• Visa Fees – Employee visas (including family dependents) range from AED 1,000 to AED 3,000, depending on the type and duration of the visa.
• Labor Cards & Medical Insurance – Additional costs apply for labour cards and mandatory medical insurance.

Other Costs

• Professional Services – Hiring company setup consultants in Dubai, legal advisors, or accountants can streamline the process, but their fees depend on the complexity of your business.
• Marketing and Branding – Initial marketing, advertising, and branding can significantly affect your budget.
• Bank Account Fees – Business bank accounts may include account opening charges, annual maintenance fees, and transaction costs.

The total cost of company setup in Dubai depends on your specific business needs and your chosen jurisdiction. Working with experienced consultants like Incorpyfy ensures you get accurate estimates and expert guidance, helping you make informed decisions that align with your goals.

Absolutely! Dubai offers an incredible ecosystem for entrepreneurs. The city’s strategic location between East and West, zero income tax policy, strong infrastructure, and business-friendly regulations make it an ideal destination for startups and established businesses alike. With a diverse, multicultural population and a government that actively supports business growth, Dubai provides unprecedented opportunities for business expansion and success.

Setting up a business in Dubai involves several key steps: First, choose your business activity and decide between a mainland or free zone setup. Next, select your company structure (LLC, FZE, branch office, etc.) and get your trade name approved. Then, submit your business setup application along with required documents, obtain necessary licenses, and open a corporate bank account. Working with professional business setup services can significantly streamline this process.

Dubai welcomes almost every type of legitimate business! Popular options include:

• E-commerce and retail
• Technology and IT services
• Tourism and hospitality
• Real estate and property management
• Professional services (consulting, marketing, etc.)
• Manufacturing and trading
• Healthcare services
• Educational services The key is choosing a business activity that aligns with market demand and your expertise.

While Dubai’s business setup process is streamlined, there are important legal considerations to navigate. These include choosing the right business structure, understanding ownership requirements, obtaining proper licenses, and ensuring compliance with UAE laws. However, these complexities are manageable with proper guidance from business setup experts who can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure full compliance.

Some of the most important benefits that come with opening a company in Dubai, some of which are listed below:

• 100% foreign ownership options
• Zero corporate and personal income tax
• Strategic global location
• World-class infrastructure
• Strong government support for businesses
• Access to a skilled workforce
• Stable political environment
• High quality of life
• Multiple free zones with specific benefits
• Streamlined business processes

Dubai offers three main categories for business setup:

1. Mainland Company: Operate anywhere in the UAE and conduct business directly with the local market
2. Free Zone Company: Enjoy 100% ownership and specific tax benefits within designated zones
3. Offshore Company: Ideal for international business activities and asset management

Dubai offers several company structure options:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
• Free Zone Company (FZC)
• Branch of Foreign Company
• Representative Office
• Sole Establishment Each structure has specific requirements and benefits, so choosing the right one depends on your business goals.

The best location depends on your business type and target market. Popular mainland areas include Business Bay, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai Marina. For free zones, top choices include:

• DMCC for trading and commodities
• Dubai Internet City for technology
• Dubai Healthcare City for medical services
• Jebel Ali Free Zone for manufacturing and logistics Consider factors like customer accessibility, infrastructure, costs, and industry clustering when choosing your location.

The choice between free zone and mainland depends on your business goals:

Choose Free Zone if you want:

• 100% foreign ownership
• Zero corporate tax
• Simplified setup process
• No capital requirement
• Export/import benefits

Choose Mainland if you need to:

• Trade directly with the UAE market
• Work with government projects
• Open multiple branches
• Have flexibility in business activities
• Access the entire UAE market without restrictions