UAE Business Setup - Jurisdictions

Choose the legal structure that fits your business strategy.

Mainland Company (Onshore)

Most Versatile

Establish a local onshore presence licensed by the DED. Provides broad market access to trade directly within mainland UAE markets and bid on public tenders. Scalable operations are supported, though regulated activities require specific approvals.

Key Benefits

Broad Local Market Access
Scalable Visas (Linked to office space)
Public Sector & Tenders Access

View Requirements

Free Zone Company

Tax Efficient

Register within one of the UAE's specialized economic zones. Offers 100% foreign ownership and capital repatriation. Ideal for international trade, with corporate tax incentives subject to qualifying criteria.

Key Benefits

100% Foreign Ownership & Control
Eligible for 0% Tax (Qualifying Persons)
Seamless International Business

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Offshore Company

Asset Protection

A non-resident holding entity registered in a specialized jurisdiction. Designed for international asset holding, intellectual property management, and wealth structuring. Offshore entities are legally restricted from trading directly within the UAE.

Key Benefits

Strategic Wealth & Asset Holding
Intellectual Property Ownership
Strict Global Compliance Alignment

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Your Entry Journey

From application to operation in 4 streamlined steps.

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Preparation & Advisory

Comprehensive business activity assessment, strategic jurisdiction selection (Mainland vs Free Zone), and trade name reservation.

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Licensing & Setup

Managing trade license applications, coordinating legal documentation (MoA/AoA), and establishing initial approvals.

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Visas & Onboarding

Coordination of Investor Visa Services (medical test, Emirates ID), mandatory Corporate Tax registration, and VAT registration onboarding.

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Compliance & Banking

Corporate Banking Assistance for account opening support, AML/UBO compliance alignment, Accounting & Bookkeeping setup, and operational launch.

Why Invest Now?

100% Foreign Ownership

The UAE permits 100% foreign corporate ownership across mainland commercial activities and all Free Zone jurisdictions, enabling complete operational control and capital repatriation.

Competitive Tax Framework

Benefit from 0% personal income tax, 0% withholding tax, and a highly competitive standard 9% Corporate Tax rate above the threshold.

Strategic Global Gateway

Ideally positioned to bridge EMEA and Asian markets, with world-class air, sea, and logistics infrastructure.

Digital Governance & Compliance

Fully integrated digital platforms (including DET, MOHRE, and EmaratTax) that streamline business licensing, visa support, and compliance onboarding.

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