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Setting Up a Company in the UAE
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UAE Company Types

UAE company registration types include: Mainland Company (Economic Department Company), Free Zone Company (Free Trade Zone Company), and Offshore Company.

The UAE mainland is the hub of most commercial operations. This area is also known as the onshore company creation zone. The entire geographical area granted by the Economic Development Department (DED) of each emirate to all commercial entities to freely carry out business functions is called the UAE mainland. Mainland companies are suitable for industries requiring local engineering and retail store setups.

The UAE Free Zone is a special economic zone established to promote international trade and investment, allowing enterprises to enjoy 100% foreign ownership and tax exemption policies. These zones offer advanced infrastructure and a flexible business environment, attracting global companies to set up headquarters and operational bases, thereby fostering the UAE's economic development and internationalization.

UAE offshore companies can currently be registered in Dubai, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah; they offer advantages such as 100% tax exemption, 100% anonymity, no physical office presence, and no audit requirements; however, they are not permitted to conduct business within the UAE or open corporate bank accounts in the UAE.

Establishing a company in the UAE presents numerous opportunities. With its strategic location and business-friendly policies, the mainland attracts entrepreneurs looking to establish a presence in the region. Setting up a company in Dubai, whether on the mainland or in a free zone, requires navigating regulatory frameworks and compliance procedures.


  • Broader Business Reach
    Unrestricted cross-border and domestic transactions with flexible operational locations
  • Ease of Opening Bank Accounts
    Banks prefer DED-registered companies, facilitating smoother corporate account opening
  • Zero Trade Restrictions
    Ability to undertake various business operations and sell services directly to consumers across UAE
  • Visa Flexibility
    Recruitment of international talent without quota restrictions; easier work visa acquisition
  • 100% Equity Ownership
    Foreign investors can own 100% of mainland companies
  • Unrestricted Foreign Exchange
    Free repatriation of all capital and profits
  • Eligibility for Government Contract Tendering
    Ability to bid for government contracts, opening additional revenue streams and business opportunities
  • No Mandatory Audits
    No compulsory audit requirements unlike many other regions
Mainland/Free Zone Company
UAE Company Types
  • Mainland Company
    Independent legal entity, can be established by natural persons or legal persons, requires at least 1 investor and a maximum of 50 investors
  • Free Zone Company
    A subsidiary established by an overseas parent company in the UAE is not an independent legal entity, has no independent charter, and is financially consolidated with the parent company.
  • Offshore Company
    Offices established by foreign institutions in China are not allowed to engage in commercial activities, and are limited to market research, research and development, etc.
License Types
  • Professional License
  • Industrial License
  • Commercial License
UAE Company Registration Structures
  • Sole Proprietorship
    Entrepreneurs can choose to establish companies independently within the free zones or on the mainland, thereby gaining full ownership and operational control.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC)
    Dubai offers services for establishing limited liability companies on the mainland and in free zones, providing entrepreneurs with limited liability protection and operational flexibility.
  • Partnership
    Dubai facilitates business partnerships where two or more entities share profits and losses. The emirate's partnerships include general partnerships and limited liability partnerships.
  • Joint Stock Company
    Dubai facilitates business partnerships where two or more entities share profits and losses. The emirate's partnerships include general partnerships and limited liability partnerships.
  • Branch Office
    Establishing a branch in Dubai allows a company to operate as an extension of a foreign entity, complying with UAE laws while leveraging the emirate's business environment advantages.
How to Register a Company in the UAE: The Process Explained
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) believes in fostering a conducive environment for investors through streamlined processes to drive economic growth. To this end, they have established a set of simple steps that remain consistent across all jurisdictions within the UAE's business establishment process. Below are the fundamental steps for setting up a business in the UAE.
  • Business Activity Selection

    Once you have made the important decision to start a new business in the UAE, it is important to decide the activities you wish to carry out. Simply share with us some basic information such as the nature of your business and the business services you will be providing.Zhuoxin Business Setup will help you get the perfect combination event to promote your business.

  • Jurisdiction Selection

    Based on your trade activities, the next step is to decide where to establish your company in the UAE. Whether it's on the mainland, in a free zone, or as an offshore company, the Zhuo Xin Team can directly provide you with cost-effective packages tailored to your specific needs.

  • License Application

    After completing the initial steps, you will need to prepare all required documents and submit a license application. Zhuo Xin meets all your documentation and application needs, including submitting on your behalf to the relevant government authorities.

  • Visa Processing

    After application approval, the next step is to initiate the visa process. This includes a medical check-up, and upon completion of visa processing, you will also receive a UAE ID card to facilitate opening a bank account in the UAE. Zhuo Xin not only assists with visa applications but also supports family members, partners, or employees in obtaining any type of visa.

  • Bank Account Opening

    After your application is approved, the next step is to initiate the visa process, which includes a medical check-up. Once the visa processing is complete, it is crucial for your company to have a company account to ensure successful operations and enable regular financial transactions. Zhuo Xin Enterprise has partnered with leading banks across the UAE to assist your business growth. Choose banking services tailored to your financial needs.

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