We recommend our clients legal structure, depending on their core business needs and investment budget
Ease of doing business
Easy approval processes, flexible regulatory procedures, and quick timelines
Business opportunities
Possibility to participate in private and government tenders
100% foreign ownership
For the activities included into DED list of approved activities
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Mainland Company vs Free Zone Company
Choose the right legal option that works for your business!
Unlike a mainland company, a free zone company is established within a special jurisdiction within an Emirate. The Free Zone Authority is responsible for issuing trade licenses, while the Department of Economic Development issues trade licenses to mainland companies. Free zones in the UAE provide benefits such as 100% foreign ownership and tax concessions.
An entity organized under a free zone can only conduct business within the free zone and outside the UAE, whereas an entity organized under a mainland can conduct business both in the UAE and overseas.
Mainland and Free Zone Licenses features comparison
Compare UAE mainland and free zones business setup features and pick the one that's right for you
Features
Free Zone License
Mainland License
Company ownership
100% foreign ownership
When the activity is listed in DED's approved activities list, foreign ownership is 100%. For strategic activities, UE/GCC shareholders must hold 51% of the shares
Business scope
Within free zones and internationally
Inside UAE and internationally
Minimum share capital
Starting from AED 10,000. Each free zone has its own requirements for proof and amount
No standard requirement, determined by the legal structure
Company setup procedure
100% remote
Physical presence of shareholder(s) or POA is required
Business setup time
3-15 days
5-21 days
Work premises
Office facilities are required for all free zone businesses. In almost all free zones
Virtual offices options are available
Minimum of 140 sq.m. office space is required
Import/ export duties
No exemption
Free zone companies are allowed to import and export goods to other countries without customs duties
Financial audits
Depending on a free zone
Mandatory for all businesses
Corporate bank account
Starting from 3 weeks
Within 2-3 weeks
Visa eligibility
In most free zones up to 6 visas are allocated under 1 business activity
With sufficient office space visas eligibility can be unlimited
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My Business Consulting DMCC is here to assist you with choosing the right location, corporate structure and best facilities for your business in the UAE.
Why My Business Consulting DMCC
By choosing My Business Consulting DMCC, you are partnering with a reputable firm that prioritises your success and provides unparalleled support in establishing your business in Dubai, UAE. Here’s why you should choose uf for your business setup in Dubai.
Award-Winning Consultants:
Our team comprises industry-leading experts recognized for their excellence in business consultancy in Dubai. With numerous awards under our belt, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier service and results.
Over 15 Years of Experience
With more than 15 years in the industry, we have a deep understanding of the local market dynamics, regulatory requirements, and the intricacies of business setup in Dubai. Our extensive experience translates into insightful guidance and strategic advice for our clients.
High Approval and Success Rate
We boast a remarkable approval and success rate, reflecting our commitment to achieving positive outcomes for our clients. Our proven track record speaks volumes about our reliability and efficiency in handling business setups in Dubai and UAE.
End-to-End Management
From the initial consultation to the finalisation of your business setup in Dubai, we manage every step of the process. Our comprehensive services cover all aspects of company formation, allowing you to focus on your core activities while we handle the administrative and legal complexities.
Dedicated Account Manager
Each client is assigned a dedicated account manager who serves as a single point of contact throughout the business setup process in Dubai and UAE. This personalised approach ensures that your specific needs are met, and any queries or concerns are promptly addressed.
Extensive Network and Partnerships
Our extensive network and strong partnerships with key stakeholders in the UAE, including government bodies, financial institutions, and industry associations, give our clients a strategic advantage. This network allows us to expedite processes and provide valuable connections to support your business growth.
Schedule a consultation with our experts today to start your journey towards a successful business setup in Dubai.
How can we help?
We can assist you register a mainland company in the UAE
The process of setting up and obtaining a Mainland License in the UAE can be lengthy, however, obtaining legal advice will streamline the process and help foreign companies determine the proper legal structure for their business.
You can rely on My Business Consulting DMCC for assistance in choosing the most efficient corporate structure for your mainland company and support through each step of the registration process, till your company is up and running in compliance with all UAE laws and regulations.
Besides helping your company to get started in the UAE, we provide support for visa applications, bank account opening, bookkeeping, and tax compliance.