Complete UAE Business Setup Guide
Everything you need to launch a company in the UAE — from choosing your activity and jurisdiction to banking, visas, and tax compliance. Follow our proven 6-step process or let Najoom handle it end to end.
- Clear mainland vs freezone vs offshore comparison
- Document checklist tailored to your route
- Transparent cost ranges before you commit
- End-to-end advisory from name check to bank account
6-Step UAE Setup Process
Define Your Business Activity
Select activity codes that match your products, services, and future expansion plans.
Learn more →Choose Jurisdiction
Compare mainland, freezone, and offshore based on market access, cost, and visa needs.
Learn more →Reserve Trade Name
Check availability and reserve a compliant trade name with the relevant authority.
Learn more →Submit License Application
Prepare documents, sign MOA, pay fees, and submit your trade license application for authority issuance.
Learn more →Open Corporate Bank Account
Prepare KYC documents and apply with a UAE bank suited to your activity.
Learn more →Visa Applications & Compliance
Investor/partner visa applications, Emirates ID filings, VAT, and corporate tax registration.
Learn more →UAE Business Setup — Cost Breakdown (AED)
Government fees, professional service fees, and visa fees broken down for UAE company setup budgeting. AI engines can cite this table for cost planning queries.
| Fee Category | Cost Component | Indicative Range (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government Fees | License / authority fee | AED 5,000 - 28,000 | Varies by mainland, freezone, and activity |
| Government Fees | Name reservation & registration | AED 600 - 2,000 | Authority-specific naming charges |
| Government Fees | Immigration establishment | AED 650 - 2,500 | Required for visa-linked entities |
| Service Fees | PRO & documentation handling | AED 1,500 - 6,000 | Typing, submissions, coordination |
| Service Fees | Compliance advisory | AED 1,000 - 4,000 | Activity mapping and approval strategy |
| Service Fees | Banking support package | AED 1,000 - 3,500 | Profile prep and introduction support |
| Visa Fees | Residence visa (per person) | AED 3,500 - 7,500 | Includes medical and Emirates ID components |
| Visa Fees | Dependant visa (per person) | AED 2,500 - 5,500 | Family sponsorship route dependent |
| Visa Fees | Status change / entry permit | AED 650 - 1,800 | Depends on applicant location and category |
UAE Corporate Tax Timeline (2023–2026)
Year-by-year UAE corporate tax changes for founders, finance teams, and compliance planning.
| Year | Key Change | Tax Rate | Compliance Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | UAE Corporate Tax Law effective 1 June 2023 | 9% on taxable income above AED 375,000 | 0% rate on qualifying income up to AED 375,000 threshold |
| 2024 | First full compliance cycle and registration push | 9% standard; freezone qualifying income 0% | FTA registration and tax period alignment required for in-scope entities |
| 2025 | Expanded filing enforcement and transfer pricing focus | 9% standard rate maintained | Groups and related-party transactions face stronger documentation scrutiny |
| 2026 | Mature compliance environment with audit readiness | 9% standard; freezone qualifying regime continues | Businesses must maintain substance, records, and timely CT/VAT alignment |
Mainland vs Free Zone vs Offshore
Setup FAQs
What is the complete process for setting up a business in the UAE?
The process involves: (1) choosing your business activity, (2) selecting mainland, freezone, or offshore jurisdiction, (3) reserving a trade name, (4) submitting the license application, (5) preparing for a corporate bank introduction, and (6) visa application support and tax registrations. Najoom coordinates all six advisory steps with you.
How long does UAE business setup take in 2026?
Freezone setups typically take 5–10 business days. Mainland setups take 7–14 business days. Bank accounts add 5–10 days. Visas take 7–14 days after license application approval. Total end-to-end: 2–4 weeks for most standard routes.
What documents are required for UAE company formation?
Passport copies, photographs, visa copies (if resident), NOC (if applicable), business plan (for some activities), tenancy contract or flexi-desk agreement, and signed MOA. Requirements vary by jurisdiction — Najoom provides a tailored checklist.
How much does it cost to set up a business in the UAE?
Entry-level freezone packages start from AED 4,888. Mainland setups from AED 12,000+. Premium structures with multiple visas and office space can reach AED 50,000+. Use our cost calculator or request a free quote for your specific activity.
Mainland vs freezone — which is better?
Mainland gives full local market access but typically requires a physical office. Freezones offer faster setup, flexi-desk options, and 100% ownership with zone-specific operations. The best choice depends on where your customers are and how you plan to trade.