Remote registration, Transparent fees, VIP customer service
Register a Company in Dubai – Professional Turnkey Services
Setting up a business in Dubai offers incredible advantages, from tax benefits to a booming economy. In this guide, learn how to register a company in Dubai, the types of entities, costs, processes, and legal requirements – all explained simply to help you take your first step into the UAE market.
Trusted by Millions across Globe
.png)
Licensed Corporate Service Provider
.webp)
5 Star Google Reviews
.webp)
Presence in more than 50 countries
Advantages
Why Register a Company in Dubai? – Key Business Advantages
Strategic Business Location
Dubai’s unique geographical position between Europe, Asia, and Africa makes it a global logistics and trade hub. Businesses registered in Dubai enjoy fast access to emerging and established markets, making international expansion more achievable. The city’s world-class infrastructure, ports, and airports further amplify its role as a global business gateway.
Tax Benefits and Regulations
One of Dubai’s most attractive features is its favorable tax regime. Most business activities—especially in free zones—are exempt from corporate and personal income taxes. This allows entrepreneurs and investors to maximize profits, reinvest capital, and build scalable businesses without facing high tax burdens that exist in many other jurisdictions.
100% Foreign Ownership Options
Recent legal reforms have made it easier for foreign investors to fully own companies in the UAE. In free zones, 100% foreign ownership has always been standard, while many mainland businesses can now be wholly owned without the need for a local Emirati partner. This enhances control, profit retention, and long-term operational freedom.
Business-Friendly Regulations
Dubai has continually streamlined its business laws to attract foreign investment. From simplified licensing procedures to efficient digital portals for documentation, entrepreneurs can register and operate businesses with minimal red tape. Government initiatives like “Invest in Dubai” and pro-business policies have positioned the city as a leading startup and SME hub.
Business Entity Types When Registering a Company in Dubai
Choosing the right type of business entity is crucial as it impacts licensing, ownership, taxation, and scope of operations. Dubai offers several business structures to accommodate varying investor needs—from full ownership to strategic partnerships. Understanding each type helps you align your company’s structure with your operational and financial goals.
Mainland Company
Mainland companies are registered under the Department of Economic Development (DED) and can operate throughout the UAE and globally. They’re ideal for businesses that want to trade directly within the UAE market or work with government contracts. These setups now allow 100% foreign ownership for many business activities, enhancing appeal for global investors.
Free Zone Company
Free zone companies benefit from full foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified registration. They're ideal for international businesses that don’t need to operate in the UAE mainland. Popular free zones like DMCC, JAFZA, and DIFC offer industry-specific benefits, infrastructure, and licensing packages tailored to trading, tech, finance, and logistics.
Offshore Company
Offshore companies are typically used for asset protection, wealth management, and international trade. They cannot conduct business within the UAE but enjoy confidentiality, zero taxes, and minimal reporting requirements. Jurisdictions like JAFZA Offshore and RAK ICC are popular for entrepreneurs looking to structure global holdings or protect intellectual property.
Branch
Foreign companies can open branches in Dubai to expand their presence without forming a new legal entity. These branches are allowed to operate under the parent company’s name, offering the same services. They must appoint a local service agent and are subject to the same licensing regulations as local businesses.
What you'll need
Legal & Document Requirements to Register a Company in Dubai
Alex Romano
Director, BlueCap Holdings Ltd.
(Cayman Islands)
"I needed an international business structure for my investment firm and wasn’t sure where to start. Consultrio team offered a clear strategy, registered our IBC in Cayman Islands, and opened both business and personal accounts with a reliable global multi-currency bank."
.jpg)
Dr. Natalia
Founder of Timoshenko Clinics (UAE)
Provided a great support at all stages of our project, thank you very much. Their knowledge of the local healthcare regulations was invaluable, and thanks to their support, we were able to launch on schedule without delays"
Jitedra Kumar
Nurpex Chemicals (UAE)
"Their attention to detail when it came to structuring our holding company saved us a lot of future headaches. They clearly explained the legal and tax implications and helped us register under the right jurisdiction. The support didn’t stop there—they followed through until our corporate bank account was fully operational."
Testimonials
Proud to partner with amazing clients worldwide
Have Questions?
Book a complimentary call with our expert
Choose a convenient time to chat with our incorporation agents and get the answers you need to take the next step.
Process
How to Register a Company in Dubai – Step-by-Step Process
.png)
Define Business Activity & Legal Structure
(2-3 Days)
We start by identifying your business activity and selecting the right legal structure—mainland, free zone, or offshore. This decision will affect licensing, ownership, taxes, and operational scope. Some free zones cater to specific industries like tech or media, so research your options carefully to ensure regulatory compatibility.
.png)
Reserve Trade Name
(2-3 Days)
We will reserve a unique trade name that aligns with your brand and business activity. This can be done online through the DED or relevant free zone authority. Avoid restricted terms, ensure name availability, and get approval before proceeding. The reservation typically lasts 60 days and may require renewal.
.png)
Submit Documents & Obtain Initial Approval
(2 Days)
We submit required documents including passport copies, business plan, NOC (if applicable), lease contract, and MOA to obtain initial approval. Mainland companies go through the DED, while free zones have dedicated portals. Upon approval, you’ll proceed to licensing and company formation, often within a few business days.
.png)
Receive License and Start Operations
(3-4 Days)
Once approvals and payments are completed, your license will be issued, allowing you to operate legally. You can now open a bank account, apply for visas, and begin marketing your services. Timelines vary, but most registrations are completed within 7–14 working days if documents are in order.
Taxation and Accounting When You Register a Business in Dubai
Corporate Tax
-
As of June 2023, the UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000.
-
This applies to mainland businesses and certain free zone entities, depending on activity.
-
Startups and small businesses with profits below this threshold remain exempt, maintaining Dubai’s appeal as a low-tax jurisdiction.
VAT
-
Value Added Tax (VAT) at 5% applies to most goods and services.
-
Businesses must register for VAT if their turnover exceeds AED 375,000 annually.
-
Even if exempt, many companies voluntarily register for VAT to appear more credible and recover input tax on expenses related to business operations.
Personal Tax
-
Dubai remains a highly attractive destination for entrepreneurs due to its zero personal income tax policy.
-
Whether you're a shareholder, director, or employee of your own company, you will not pay tax on your salary, dividends, or capital gains. This tax-free benefit allows business owners to maximize their take-home income, making Dubai one of the most financially rewarding jurisdictions for expatriates and investors alike.
Audit Requirements
-
Free zone and mainland entities must conduct annual audits, particularly those in regulated industries or renewing licenses.
-
Auditors must be approved by the free zone authority or DED. Offshore companies may not require audits unless mandated by the parent company or shareholders. Audits help assess financial health and compliance.
Tax Residency Certificate
-
Businesses and individuals can apply for a UAE Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) to benefit from the country’s double tax treaties.
-
This certificate is essential for avoiding dual taxation on global income. To obtain one, companies must demonstrate UAE economic substance and provide financial documentation for the previous fiscal year.
Financial Reporting Obligations
-
All businesses must maintain proper accounting records for up to five years. These should include invoices, receipts, bank statements, and audited financial statements.
-
Proper bookkeeping ensures tax compliance, aids in audits, and builds credibility with banks and investors. Many firms outsource this to certified accounting firms in Dubai.
