Forget government queues and complex paperwork
Our specialists manage every detail of your business setup – ensuring a smooth, end-to-end UAE company formation experience.
What we do for our Customers Business ?
1. Initial Consultation
We begin by understanding your business goals, requirements, and preferred business model to tailor the setup plan for you
2. Choosing the Business Structure
We help you select the most suitable business type (Free Zone, Mainland, Offshore) based on your needs and regulatory considerations.
3. Document Process
Our team assists you in gathering and preparing all necessary legal documents and applications required for registration.
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4. Company Registration
We submit your documents to the relevant authorities and manage the entire registration process on your behalf.
5. Licensing & Approvals
ABS handles all licensing procedures and government approvals needed for your business activities.
6. PRO & Visa Services
We provide professional services including visa processing, labor card applications, and government liaison tasks.
7. Bank Account Setup
We support you in opening corporate bank accounts to facilitate your business transactions smoothly.
8. Post-Setup Support
Once your company is established, we offer ongoing support for renewals, compliance, and other administrative services.
Why Choose ABS ?
Award-winning businessmen service dedicated to helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their companies with confidence.
We offer a fast and stress-free business setup experience designed to save you time and effort. From document preparation to license approvals, our streamlined processes ensure your company is up and running quickly
We combine years of expertise in UAE business setup, market knowledge, and tailored strategies to deliver seamless registration, licensing, and compliance support. Our goal is to provide a hassle-free experience so you can focus on building your business while we handle the rest.
Our professionals are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the business setup process with precision and care, ensuring compliance and success.
GET A FIRST CLASS CONSULTATION
Partner with us for trusted advice that transforms your business vision into reality.
Offering Our Best Packages For Your Business Growth
Ajman Freezone
Trade License
100% Foreign ownership
Immigration card
Digital Bank Account Assistance
Mydan Freezone
Unlimited Visa Quota
100% Foreign ownership
Multiple Activities
Digital Bank Account Assistance
Sharjah Freezone
Trade License
100% Foreign ownership
Immigration card
Digital Bank Account Assistance
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the step-by-step process for Dubai company formation?
To form a company in Dubai, start by identifying your business activity and choosing the appropriate license type, as more than 2,000 activities are available. Next, select your business structure and name, ensuring the name is unique and compliant with local regulations. Then, gather and submit the required legal documents, such as shareholder details and Memorandum of Association, to the relevant authority for initial approval. After obtaining approval, finalize your license by paying fees and leasing office space. Lastly, open a corporate bank account to manage company finances. This streamlined process enables fast company registration in Dubai.
Do I need a local sponsor or partner?
In Dubai, a local sponsor or partner is not always required for business setup. Most businesses, especially in free zones and many mainland activities, allow 100% foreign ownership. However, some specific sectors like oil, gas, and certain trading activities may still need a local Emirati sponsor holding 51% ownership legally. For most professional services and consultancy, a local sponsor is not necessary. Always check your specific business activity and location for exact requirements. This flexibility simplifies foreign investment while protecting strategic sectors.
How much does business setup cost in Dubai?
The cost of business setup in Dubai varies widely based on factors like jurisdiction (mainland or free zone), business activity, office space, and visa requirements. Generally, it ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000. Mainland company license fees alone typically cost between AED 10,000 and AED 25,000 per year, with additional costs for physical office rent (AED 15,000 to AED 50,000 annually) and local sponsor fees if applicable. Free zone licenses are often more affordable, starting around AED 9,000 to AED 30,000, sometimes including visas and flexible office options. Visa processing fees usually range between AED 3,000 and AED 6,000 per visa. Overall, businesses should budget comprehensively to cover license, office, sponsorship, and visa expenses.
What office space requirements are there for licensing?
Office space requirements for business licensing in the UAE vary depending on the jurisdiction and business activity. Generally, a physical office space is mandatory for mainland companies, with minimum sizes starting from 200 square feet. Free zones offer flexible options including dedicated offices, shared offices, or flexi-desks. The office must comply with lease regulations, be suitable for the licensed activities, and meet government standards to obtain and renew the trade license. Proper office space is essential for legal compliance and facilitates visa issuance and business operations.
Can I open a corporate bank account in UAE?
Yes, with trade license and company documents, you can open a business account, though banks may request additional approvals and compliance checks.
What visas are available through business setup?
Through business setup in the UAE, various visas are available to support investors, entrepreneurs, and employees. The main types include the Investor Visa, which enables business owners to live and work in the UAE for two to three years and sponsor family members. The Entrepreneur Visa targets startup founders, allowing residency linked to their company. Employment Visas allow professionals to work legally under employer sponsorship. Additionally, there are Business Visit Visas for short-term business activities, Freelancer Visas for self-employed individuals, and the prestigious Golden Visa offering long-term residency for exceptional investors and talents. These visas facilitate residency, business operation, and family sponsorship under flexible terms
Are there taxes I should be aware of?
In the UAE, businesses should be aware of corporate tax and value-added tax (VAT). Since June 2023, a federal corporate tax of 9% applies to taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000, with small profits below this threshold taxed at 0%. From January 2025, a 15% Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax targets large multinational enterprises. VAT at 5% is applied to most goods and services, with mandatory registration if annual taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000. Some sectors and transactions may be exempt or zero-rated. Compliance with these tax laws is essential for operating legally in the UAE.
What are the benefits of free zone business setup?
Free zone offers several key benefits. Free zones allow 100% foreign ownership, giving full control without the need for a local partner. They provide complete repatriation of capital and profits with no restrictions. Free zone companies enjoy 0% corporate tax and exemption from import/export duties. Additionally, these zones offer strategic locations with top infrastructure, fast and easy setup processes, and no currency restrictions. They support diverse business activities, offer flexible office and warehouse options, and provide streamlined visa and immigration services, making them ideal for startups and SMEs aiming for international trade and cost efficiency.
What documents are required for business setup in the UAE?
For business setup in the UAE, the required documents vary depending on the business structure and jurisdiction. Generally, you need copies of passports for shareholders and managers, a completed application form, and a business plan outlining your company’s activities. For mainland companies, a Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA) are mandatory. Additional documents may include approval certificates, lease agreements for office space, specimen signatures, and sometimes a No Objection Certificate (NOC) if employed elsewhere. Free zones usually require fewer documents and may allow virtual office setups. Compliance with these documentation requirements is essential for smooth registration and licensing
Can I change my business activity after registration?
Yes, you can change your business activity after registration in the UAE. The process typically involves submitting a formal request to the relevant licensing authority, whether it is the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland companies or the respective free zone authority. You may need to obtain approval for the new activity, update your trade license, and possibly submit additional documents or pay fees. Some business activities may require special approvals or permits, so it’s important to check specific regulations before making changes to ensure compliance. This flexibility allows businesses to adapt and grow over time.
What are the ongoing compliance requirements post business setup?
Post business setup in the UAE, ongoing compliance requirements include renewing your trade license annually with the relevant authority to keep the business legally active. Companies must maintain proper financial records, file annual audited accounts if applicable, and comply with corporate tax filing and VAT registration if revenue thresholds are met. Businesses must also ensure timely visa renewals for employees and owners, comply with labor and immigration laws, and adhere to any sector-specific regulations or permits. Maintaining registered office space and updating authorities about any changes in business activities or ownership is also mandatory to avoid penalties.
Setting up a business in the UAE is a streamlined process thanks to the government’s focus on attracting foreign investment. There are three main business structures to choose from: mainland, free zone and off shore. Each offers distinct advantages depending on your business goals and target market. Once you’ve selected your structure, you’ll need to choose a trade name, secure a location and obtain the necessary licenses. With careful planning and the help of a business setup consultant, you can efficiently navigate the process and launch your business in the UAE.