Mainland & Free Zone Company Formation
Choose the right jurisdiction for how you actually do business — we structure it, license it, and get you trading.
Two Paths, One Team
Mainland or Free Zone: What's the Difference?
Both routes offer 100% foreign ownership today. The right choice depends on where and how you plan to trade.
Mainland (DED) License
Registered with the Department of Economy and Tourism, a mainland company can trade directly across the UAE with no restriction on location, and bid on government and semi-government contracts.
Free Zone License
Set up within one of the UAE's 40+ free zones for streamlined licensing, 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, full profit repatriation, and no currency restrictions.
Side-by-Side
Mainland vs. Free Zone Comparison
| Feature | Mainland | Free Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign ownership | 100% | 100% |
| Trade anywhere in the UAE | Yes | Requires local distributor |
| Government & public sector contracts | Eligible | Not eligible |
| Physical office requirement | Mandatory | Flexi-desk options available |
| Corporate tax on qualifying income | 9% above AED 375,000 | 0% for Qualifying Free Zone Persons |
| Visa allocation | Based on office size | Based on package/facility |
| Setup timeline | 5–10 working days | 3–7 working days |
| Best suited for | Retail, contracting, F&B, professional services trading locally | Trading, consulting, e-commerce, holding companies, international services |
Formation Packages
Transparent, Fixed-Fee Pricing
Indicative starting packages — final cost depends on jurisdiction, activity, and visa quota. We confirm an exact quote before you commit.
Free Zone Starter
AED 12,500/ year
Ideal for consultants, freelancers, and single-shareholder trading companies.
- 1 free zone trade license
- Flexi-desk registered address
- 1 investor visa eligibility
- Bank account introduction
Mainland Growth
AED 18,900/ year
For businesses trading directly across the UAE market or bidding on local contracts.
- DED mainland trade license
- Ejari-compliant office support
- Up to 3 visa allocations
- Corporate bank account support
- Dedicated relationship manager
Enterprise & Multi-Entity
Custom quote
For groups establishing multiple licenses, branches, or holding structures.
- Multi-jurisdiction structuring
- Group banking coordination
- Priority PRO & government liaison
- Dedicated account director
How It Works
From Enquiry to Trade Licence
Discovery Call
We review your business activity, ownership structure, and goals to recommend the right jurisdiction.
Documentation
We prepare and submit your trade name application, initial approval, and MOA.
Licensing
Your license is issued once approvals and lease/flexi-desk agreements are finalized.
Banking & Visas
We introduce you to partner banks and process your investor and employee visas.
Not Sure Which License Fits Your Business?
Tell us your activity and target market — we'll recommend the most cost-effective structure.