What is the process for setting up a business in the UAE?

Setting up a business in the UAE involves four key steps: choosing your business structure (Free Zone, Mainland, or Offshore), selecting your business activity and trade name, obtaining your trade license from the relevant authority, and completing visa and banking procedures. At Dream Global, we manage the entire process end-to-end — from initial consultation to license delivery — so you can launch your business in as little as 3 working days.

What are the benefits of setting up a business in a UAE Free Zone?

UAE Free Zones offer significant advantages for foreign investors: 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate and personal income tax, full repatriation of profits and capital, no import or export duties within the zone, and a streamlined company registration process. Free Zones are ideal for trading, e-commerce, technology, media, and consultancy businesses. Popular options include DMCC, Shams, Meydan, and Sharjah Free Zone.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Mainland company in the UAE?

Yes. Following the UAE's landmark amendment to the Commercial Companies Law in 2021, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for the majority of mainland business activities — with no requirement for a UAE national sponsor or partner. A small number of strategic and security-related activities still require local partnership. Our consultants will confirm your specific activity's ownership requirements during your free consultation.

What is the difference between a Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore company?

A Mainland company is licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and can trade freely anywhere in the UAE and internationally — ideal for businesses targeting the local UAE market. A Free Zone company operates within a designated economic zone, offering tax benefits and full foreign ownership, but trades within the UAE market through a local distributor. An Offshore company is used primarily for asset protection, international trading, and holding structures — it cannot conduct business within the UAE directly. We help you choose the right structure based on your goals and budget.

How long does it take to set up a business in the UAE?

The timeline depends on your chosen structure and business activity. A Free Zone company can typically be registered in 3–7 working days. A ainland (DED) company generally takes 1–2 weeks, depending on the ctivity and approvals required. Offshore company formation usually takes 5–10 working days. Dream Global expedites every step — from name reservation and document submission to license collection — to get you operational as quickly as possible.

How much does it cost to set up a company in the UAE?

Company setup costs in the UAE vary by structure, free zone, and business activity. At Dream Global, our packages start from AED 12,900 for ree Zone company formation. Mainland setup packages start from AED 8,500, and Offshore formation from AED 29,999. All ackages include trade license, company registration, and expert PRO support. Contact us for a transparent, itemised quote tailored to your business.

Can I get a UAE residence visa through my company?

Yes. Business owners in the UAE are eligible to apply for a UAE residence visa through their company. Depending on your business structure and visa quota, you can also sponsor visas for employees, family members, and dependents. Dream Global handles the complete visa process — including medical fitness tests, Emirates ID biometrics, GDRFA approval, and visa stamping — ensuring a hassle-free experience.

What ongoing support do you provide after my business is set up?

Our relationship doesn't end at setup. Dream Global provides comprehensive post-setup support including: trade license renewal and modification, employee and dependent visa processing, corporate bank account opening, VAT registration and bookkeeping, AML compliance (goAML registration), customs registration, and product registration with UAE regulatory authorities. We're your long-term business partner in the UAE.