How to Register a Company in Dubai: Complete Guide for Entrepreneurs

Why Register a Company in Dubai?

Dubai is considered a global hub for business due to its:

• 0% corporate and personal income tax in most sectors.
• Access to global markets via ports, airports, and logistics hubs.
• Over 45 specialized free zones targeting different industries.
• Investor-friendly regulations with simplified company laws.
• Diverse talent pool and residency visa opportunities.

For these reasons, many entrepreneurs work with a Dubai company formation consultancy to ensure smooth navigation of requirements and compliance. Consult Peak Group today to simplify your setup and start your business journey with confidence.

Mainland Company Registration in the UAE

Setting up a mainland company in Dubai offers maximum flexibility. Businesses registered on the mainland can operate anywhere within the UAE and trade directly with local markets.

Key Benefits

• 100% foreign ownership is now allowed across most sectors.
• Unrestricted access to UAE markets and government contracts.
• Ability to engage in a wide range of commercial, industrial, and professional activities.
• No minimum share capital requirement for most activities.
• Unlimited hiring of employees of any nationality.

Requirements

• A physical office space is mandatory
• You must obtain a trade license covering your activities. Expanding into new activities requires license amendments.
• Compliance with UAE labor laws and visa allocations (typically 2–3 visas per AED 100,000 office rent value).
• A registered office address and corporate bank account.

Cost to Register a Mainland Company

The cost to register a company in Dubai (mainland) typically ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 25,000, depending on your business activity and office requirements.

For businesses targeting local UAE consumers, government contracts, or large-scale operations, mainland company registration in UAE is the best choice.

Free Zone Company Setup in Dubai

Dubai’s free zones are designed to attract international investors. They offer highly competitive advantages and simplified registration processes.

Advantages

• 100% foreign ownership without the need for a local sponsor.
• Complete exemption from corporate and personal income tax.
• Full profit repatriation and no currency restrictions.
• Streamlined UAE trade license services through free zone authorities.
• Industry-focused zones (e.g., Dubai Internet City for tech, Dubai Media City for creative industries, Jebel Ali Free Zone for logistics).
  

Cost to Register in a Free Zone

Free zone setup costs vary widely, typically between AED 10,000 and AED 50,000 annually, depending on the zone and office package. Many offer flexi-desk options, shared workspaces, and visa allocations (2–6 visas on average).

A free zone company setup in Dubai is ideal for international traders, exporters, or businesses focused on regional and global markets.

Offshore Company Structures in Dubai

Another option is establishing an offshore company in Dubai. These entities are commonly used as holding companies, for asset protection, or for managing intellectual property.

Features

• No requirement for a physical office in the UAE.
• No corporate tax on offshore income.
• Low setup costs
• Suitable for international investments, contracts, or regional headquarters.

Limitations

• Cannot conduct business within the UAE domestic market.
• Cannot issue UAE residence visas.
• Banking requirements may be more stringent.

Popular jurisdictions include RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre) and Jebel Ali Offshore.

Offshore setups are best for investors seeking privacy, cost-efficiency, and global structuring rather than local UAE trading.

Key Documents Required for Company Registration

While the requirements vary depending on your chosen setup, the typical documents include:

• Passport copies of shareholders and directors.
• Entry visa or UAE residence visa.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current sponsor (if applicable).
• Memorandum of Association (for mainland companies).
• Business plan (in some free zones and banks).

Role of Business Consultancy Services in UAE

Navigating regulations, licenses, and compliance can be complex. Partnering with a business consultancy in Dubai ensures:

• Faster approvals and reduced paperwork.
• Assistance with UAE trade license services.
• Guidance on VAT registration and compliance.
• Transparent cost estimates to register a company in Dubai.
• Ongoing support for visa processing and renewals.

Working with experts simplifies the process and minimizes risks of delays, rejections, or penalties.

Final Thoughts

Dubai offers unparalleled opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors, but success depends on choosing the right setup. Whether you’re considering mainland company registration, free zone company setup, or an offshore structure, each option has unique costs, benefits, and requirements.

At Peak Group, we specialize in Dubai company formation consultancy, providing end-to-end business consultancy services in the UAE. From trade license applications to VAT registration, banking, and visa support, we ensure your business is established smoothly, accurately, and without delays.

Ready to start your journey? Contact us today to discover the true cost to register a company in Dubai and let us simplify the entire process for you. reach out to PEAK at dursamin@peakconsultancy.com or call +971 507078555 (UAE).