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Getting started
Structure and location
Decide what your business activity will be and its legal structure, and whether you will base your company onshore or in a one of Dubai's specialist free zones.
Initial approvals
Register your company's name, making sure it complies with guidelines. Submit documents to confirm the business's compliance with laws and regulations.
Licensing and office space
Apply for your business licence from the relevant authority. Finalise your physical or virtual office arrangement, and register with additional government entities if needed.
Mainland or free zone?
Compare company set-up options
Mainland
Free of territorial restrictions
Free zones
0% tax in a specialised environment
What is a mainland company?
In Dubai, ‘mainland’ refers to the areas outside the free zones. Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) manages registration and licensing of mainland companies. Companies here can operate both within and outside the UAE, including the broader GCC region, including free zones. Since 2020, foreign investors have been able to enjoy 100% ownership in many sectors.
More about mainland companiesMainland licences
A number of business licences are available, depending on how you plan to structure your company and which sector it will operate in. These include:
What is a free zone?
Free zones specialise in specific industry sectors, providing dedicated support, tax-free profits, and 100% foreign ownership. It is important to note that companies set up in the free zone cannot trade within the UAE without a specific mainland licence.
Find out moreChoosing a free zone
Dubai boasts more than 20 free zones catering to specialised sectors including technology, trade, financial services, media, agriculture and more. Whatever line of business you are in, there is bound to be a free zone that fits your needs.
Explore resources
Set-up services for new businesses
Services for existing businesses
