Business Setup in Dubai & UAE

We guide you through selecting the ideal jurisdiction—Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore—for your venture. Our experts handle all licensing requirements from the DED and various free zone authorities. We secure your business premises, whether it's a flexi-desk or a full office space.

Our end-to-end service includes document attestation and legal translation. We assist in opening your corporate bank account with leading UAE banks. Launch your business smoothly and compliantly with our dedicated support.

Mainland Company
Formation

A Mainland license allows you to operate anywhere in the UAE.

Benefits :

• Trade directly with UAE clients.
• Bid for government contracts.
• Unlimited visas (subject to office size).
• Flexible activities across industries.

Key Requirements:

• Trade name reservation.
• Office lease (Ejari).
• Approvals from Dubai Economy (DED).
• Corporate documents and agreements.

Key Requirements:

• Dubai
• Sharjah
• Ajman
• Abu Dhabi

Update: As of 2021, most Mainland activities allow 100% foreign ownership.

Freezone Company
Formation

Perfect for consultants, traders, e-commerce entrepreneurs, and international firms.

Benefits :

• 100% foreign ownership.
• Full profit repatriation.
• 0% import/export duties.
• Simplified licensing and renewals.
• Modern infrastructure and co-working hubs.

Popular Freezones We Work With:

• DMCC • DIFC
• IFZA • Meydan
• JAFZA • Dubai South
• CommerCity • Media City
• Internet City • Healthcare City

Offshore Company
Formation

Best for asset protection, global trade, and confidentiality.

Advantages:

Low cost
incorporation.

Tax-efficient
structures.

Privacy for shareholders.

International banking access.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

1. Select your business activity.

2. Choose jurisdiction (Mainland, Freezone, Offshore).

3. Pick your legal structure (LLC, branch, representative office).

4. Reserve trade name.

5. Get initial approvals.

6. Lease office (flexi-desk or physical).

7. Pay government fees.

8. Receive trade license.

Update: As of 2021, most Mainland activities allow 100% foreign ownership.

Business Setup in Dubai Freezone

UAE free zones provide businesses with a competitive edge due to 100% foreign ownership, tax breaks, and the fast-tracked process of incorporation. This enables entrepreneurs to operate businesses within specialized zones, which were established to nurture innovation and growth.

For visionary entrepreneurs and astute investors, establishing a free zone company in Dubai is the premier strategy for accessing a dynamic, cost-effective, and business-friendly ecosystem. These zones are meticulously designed to attract international enterprises, offering world-class infrastructure and unparalleled support services.

At Fifth Alliance Consultancy, we understand that every business is unique. The cost of your Dubai free zone company setup is influenced by several factors, including your selected free zone, intended business activities, and the type of license required. Whether you are launching a trading, service, or industrial venture, our experts provide tailored solutions for a seamless business setup in Dubai-free zones that aligns perfectly with your strategic objectives.

Leveraging competitive setup costs, streamlined processes, and a host of attractive incentives, a business setup in Dubai-free zone is a powerful catalyst for growth and regional expansion. With Fifth Alliance Consultancy as your partner, securing your Dubai free zone license becomes more than just compliance—it’s your strategic gateway to global opportunities, expertly navigated and efficiently secured.

 

Types of
Free Zone Company Structures

Free Zone Establishment (FZE)

The Free Zone Establishment (FZE) is the ideal corporate structure for a sole investor seeking to establish a presence in the UAE. It is designed for 100% ownership by a single shareholder, who can be either an individual or a corporate entity.

Free Zone Company (FZCO)

For small partnerships and joint ventures, a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the ideal corporate structure. It permits between 2 and 50 shareholders—whether individuals or corporate entities—and offers the critical advantages of 100% foreign ownership

Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC)

Ideal for international investors, an FZ LLC combines the advantages of limited liability with the freedom of 100% foreign ownership. You can have up to 50 partners and benefit from streamlined operations and expanded commercial opportunities in a UAE free zone.

Free Zones in the UAE

Certain free zones in the UAE are intended for specific industries only. These include the trading, technology, design, financial industries, and others. Among the 46 free zones that we work with are

1. International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)

A cost-effective and efficient hub in Dubai, IFZA is tailored for small to medium-sized enterprises in commercial and professional services, offering a swift and affordable setup process.

2. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)

Based in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, DMCC is a premier free zone and a global powerhouse for commodities trade, offering a specialized ecosystem for businesses dealing in gold, diamonds, and other materials.

3. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)

Located on Al Maryah Island, ADGM is Abu Dhabi's prestigious international financial centre, renowned for its robust, independent regulatory framework and its appeal to global financial institutions and fintech innovators.

4. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

A leading financial hub in the heart of Dubai, DIFC provides a world-class environment for finance, banking, and fintech, supported by its own common-law judicial system and international regulatory standards.

5. Meydan Free Zone

Situated in Nad Al Sheba, Meydan Free Zone offers versatile business solutions and flexible office spaces for a diverse range of activities, from trading and finance to media and tourism.

6. Sharjah Publishing City (SPC)

The first-of-its-kind free zone in Al Zahia, Sharjah, SPC is dedicated to the creative and media industries, providing specialized licenses and infrastructure for publishing, e-commerce, and freelance professionals.

7. Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ))

A versatile and cost-effective hub, RAKEZ supports a wide spectrum of industries—from manufacturing and trading to services—with affordable licensing and purpose-built facilities in a strategic location.

8. Ajman Free Zone

Strategically located in Ajman, this zone offers competitive advantages for trading, manufacturing, and service-based businesses like consulting and marketing, providing easy access to UAE markets.

9. Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTIP)

A dedicated ecosystem for technology and R&D-driven companies, SRTIP fosters innovation by providing a collaborative environment for scientific research and advanced technological development.

10. Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)

Ideally positioned adjacent to Dubai International Airport, DAFZA is a prime logistics and trading hub, offering unparalleled access to air cargo networks, tax benefits, and streamlined customs procedures for aviation, IT, and electronics firms.

11. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)

As one of the region's largest and most established free zones, JAFZA leverages its proximity to Jebel Ali Port to be a dominant force in global logistics, manufacturing, and large-scale trading.

Type of Licenses Available in
UAE Free Zones

Commercial License

Permits trading activities, including import, export, and re-export. Ideal for businesses dealing in a wide range of tangible goods. Can be specific to a product category or a general trading license.

Service License

For businesses that provide professional services instead of goods. Covers sectors like consulting, marketing, IT support, and legal advisory services.

Industrial/Manufacturing License

For companies involved in manufacturing, production, or assembly. Often includes access to industrial land, warehousing, and manufacturing facilities within the zone.

General Trading License

A specific type of commercial license that allows trading in multiple, unrestricted product categories under a single license. Designed for businesses with a diverse product portfolio.

Freelance Permit/License

Allows an individual to operate legally as a self-employed professional. Covers freelance services in fields like media, design, programming, and coaching.

Media License

Tailored for companies in the media and creative industries. Covers activities such as advertising, film production, publishing, and social media marketing.

E-Commerce License

Specifically for businesses that operate primarily online. Enables the legal sale of goods and services through digital platforms and websites.

Educational License

For companies operating in the education and training sector. Covers businesses like training centers, educational consultancies, and research institutes.

Warehousing License

Allows a company to lease warehouse facilities for storage, distribution, and logistics management. Often used by logistics firms and trading companies needing storage space.

Offshore License

Establishes an international business company for activities conducted outside the UAE. Used for international trade, holding assets, and estate planning, with tax and privacy benefits.

Ready to Operate in Dubai !

With Fifth Alliance Consultancy, your business setup is fast, hassle-free, and fully compliant.

UAE Free Zone
Business Setup Process

Common questions
answered

At the heart of our commitment to providing
exceptional immigration solutions stands our trusted

  • Q: How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?

    A: Most licenses are issued in 7–10 business days.

  • Q: Can I own 100% of my company?

    A: Yes—across Freezones and most Mainland sectors

  • Q: What’s the cheapest way to get a visa in UAE?

    A: Open a Freezone company with an investor visa.

  • Q: What is the validity of a UAE residence visa?

    A: 2 years (renewable). Golden Visa is valid for 10 years.

  • Q: Do I need to be in UAE to set up my company?

    A: Many steps can be done remotely; physical presence is only required for medicals and biometrics

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