Dubai Free Zones provide a thriving business hub with 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and seamless operations, making them a magnet for global entrepreneurs seeking Trusted UAE Business Setup Services.
Business setup in Dubai means choosing where your company is licensed (mainland, free zone or offshore), picking an activity and legal form, reserving a trade name, getting initial approval and paying for your trade license.
Choose mainland if you want to sell directly to customers anywhere in the UAE, free zone if you mainly work internationally or online, and offshore only for holding assets or international business, not for trading inside the UAE.
Service Fee: Get a quote
Corporate tax works the same way for all three: a company incorporated under UAE law is a resident person, taxed at 0% on taxable income up to AED 375,000 and 9% above (a Qualifying Free Zone Person can pay 0% on qualifying income). Since 2021 most mainland companies no longer need an Emirati majority shareholder, so foreign company registration in Dubai no longer means giving away 51% (source: u.ae).
Still unsure? Read our mainland vs free zone guide, or go straight to Dubai mainland business setup, free zone company formation or offshore company setup.
Setting up outside Dubai? See company setup in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah.
Mainland, free zone or offshore, then LLC, FZE, FZCO and so on. UGS recommends; you decide. More on legal forms and license types.
It must follow the authority’s naming rules ( how name registration works ). UGS files it. </9>
The UGS fee on each card is our service fee only. It is NOT the total cost of setting up your business. Government or free zone authority fees are added on top.
Example government fees (official sources, checked 6 October 2026):
| Authority | What the official source says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai mainland (DET) | No single flat fee: it varies by license type and activity. Invest in Dubai has an official cost calculator. | Invest in Dubai |
| Meydan Free Zone | Trade license from AED 12,500 per year, including registration and a flexi-desk; visas, medical and Emirates ID are extra. | Meydan Free Zone |
| Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit | AED 5,000 per six months. | DET |
Government and free zone prices change, so your written quote shows our fee and the government or free zone authority fees side by side. Also budget for annual renewal, rent, visas, bank charges, accounting and tax filings. See the full cost of setting up a business in Dubai, current mainland offers and IFZA offers, or low-cost ways to start.
Most of the time goes on choosing the activity, approvals, MOA signing and the lease, not on issuing the license.
| Jurisdiction | What the authority says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai mainland: normal license | Completed within 10 minutes once MOA, lease and approvals are in place. | Invest in Dubai |
| Dubai mainland: Instant Licence | Issued within 5 minutes, for activities needing no external approvals. | Invest in Dubai |
| Meydan Free Zone | Standard applications typically within 24 hours. | Meydan Free Zone |
| IFZA | Around five working days after papers and payment (IFZA, Dec 2022; we confirm the current time in your quote). | IFZA |
| Offshore (RAK ICC) | Within 2 working days after documents are submitted through a registered agent. | RAK ICC |
Activities needing another authority's approval take longer, and the bank account and visas come after the license. To keep it fast: have passport copies ready, decide your activities and shareholding first, and sign documents quickly.
Tailoring Compliance Services To Match The Specific Needs Of Businesses.
STARTING FROM AED 5,750*
STARTING FROM AED 11,000*
STARTING FROM AED 17,000*
STARTING FROM AED 5,750*
STARTING FROM AED 11,000*
STARTING FROM AED 17,000*
The United Arab Emirates, a federation of seven dynamic emirates including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses. Known for its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and business-friendly policies, the UAE attracts entrepreneurs and investors from around the globe. With Unicorn Global Solutions, you can navigate the diverse regulatory frameworks and unlock the potential of this thriving economic hub, especially with the Best Business Setup in Dubai .
Partnering with Unicorn Global Solutions ensures a hassle-free, cost-effective process for Affordable Dubai Business Setup Services or company formation anywhere in the UAE. With our expertise and personalized solutions, we make your business journey seamless and efficient
Unicorn Global Solutions simplifies the process of Dubai Business Setup . From choosing the right business structure to obtaining necessary licenses and setting up operational systems, we ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
Our comprehensive services include:
With Unicorn Global Solutions, your business is set for success in the UAE.
Tailoring Compliance Services To Match The Specific Needs Of Businesses.
VAT Registration in the UAE ensures compliance with tax laws, offering businesses seamless operations, legal benefits, and access to government contracts. Simplify your VAT process today!
Corporate Tax in the UAE supports business growth by ensuring compliance, reducing liabilities, and enhancing financial transparency. Plan efficiently to maximize profits and meet regulatory standards.
Business Advisory services in the UAE empower companies with strategic guidance, risk management, and growth solutions. Unlock your business potential with expert insights and tailored strategies.
Accounting Services in the UAE provide precise financial reporting, tax compliance, and strategic insights. Enhance business efficiency with expert accounting solutions tailored to your needs.
Payroll Management in the UAE ensures accurate, timely employee payments while maintaining compliance with labor laws. Streamline payroll processes for efficiency and error-free financial operations.
Excise Tax Registration ensures compliance, minimizes risks, and supports seamless business operations. Simplify your tax process and stay aligned with UAE regulations for long-term success.
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Unicorn Global Solutions offers innovative business strategies, driving growth and efficiency. With expertise in compliance, tax, and advisory services, we empower businesses to achieve global success.
Unicorn Global Solutions specializes in providing end-to-end business setup services in the UAE. We assist entrepreneurs and companies with establishing businesses in Free Zones, Mainland, and Offshore jurisdictions. Our services include company registration, tax and accounting support, visa processing, and more.
The UAE offers numerous benefits for business setup, including:
The UAE offers three main jurisdictions for company formation:
The type of license depends on your business activity:
The process involves the following steps:
