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Business Setup in Dubai
Mainland, free zone or offshore. We help you choose the right structure for your plans and handle every step from licence to bank account.
A clear route to your Dubai company
Dubai offers three main ways to set up a company. Mainland companies trade directly across the UAE. Free zone companies enjoy simplified procedures and specialised business communities. Offshore companies are used for holding assets and international business.
The right choice depends on who your clients are, where you will operate, how many visas you need and how you plan to grow. We compare the options with you and then take care of the whole process.
At a glance
- Mainland, free zone and offshore options
- 100% foreign ownership available
- Residence visas for owners and staff
- Access to a fast growing regional market
- Support with banking, VAT and corporate tax
Ways to set up in the UAE
Mainland company
Licensed by the Department of Economy and Tourism, trade anywhere in the UAE and bid for government work.
Free zone company
Specialised zones with streamlined setup, flexible office options and full foreign ownership.
Offshore company
A non resident structure for holding assets, property and international trade.
Business licences
Commercial, professional, industrial, trading and e-commerce licences explained.
End to end company formation
- Jurisdiction and activity analysis
- Legal structure advice
- Trade name reservation
- Licence application
- Office and Ejari support
- Establishment card
- Investor and employee visas
- Emirates ID and medical
- Corporate bank account support
- VAT and corporate tax registration
- Accounting and bookkeeping setup
- Annual renewals
Why set up with Emna Capital
01
One point of contact
A single advisor manages your file from the first call to the day your licence, visas and bank account are ready.
02
The right jurisdiction
We compare mainland, free zone and offshore options against your activity, clients and budget before you commit.
03
Paperwork done properly
Applications, attestations and translations are prepared and checked by our team to avoid rejections and delays.
04
Support after setup
Accounting, VAT, corporate tax, renewals and PRO work continue with the same team once you are trading.
From idea to operating company
Step 1
Free consultation
We discuss your activity, clients, visas and budget and recommend the right route.
Step 2
Documents and approvals
We prepare the application, collect signatures and obtain the required approvals.
Step 3
Licence issued
Fees are paid and the licence and corporate documents issued.
Step 4
Visas and banking
We process visas and support your corporate bank account application.
Step 5
Compliance setup
Accounting, VAT and corporate tax are set up so you start compliant.
Step 6
Ongoing support
Renewals, amendments and PRO services are handled by the same team.
Frequently asked questions
Choose mainland if you sell directly to UAE customers or want government contracts. Free zones often suit consulting, trading, technology and holding activities. We compare both for your case.
Yes, in free zones and for most mainland activities. A few strategic mainland activities still require local participation.
Much of the process can be handled remotely. Visa medicals, biometrics and some bank meetings require you to be in the country.
You need an establishment card, visas, a bank account and tax registrations. We handle all of these and stay on as your accounting and compliance partner.
Talk to an Emna Capital advisor
Tell us what you are planning and we will map out the route, the paperwork and the timeline. The first consultation is free.