Starting a business in Dubai is an exciting journey filled with opportunity and growth potential. With world-class infrastructure, tax-friendly laws, and global connectivity, Dubai has become the go-to hub for entrepreneurs, investors, and multinational companies.
Before launching your business, it’s essential to understand the steps… Working with a trusted business setup consultancy in Dubai can simplify the entire process. Whether you’re choosing between Mainland vs Free Zone Dubai, or figuring out which business license in Dubai suits you best, this guide will simplify it all.
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What is Company Formation & Where to Start
When planning your business setup in Dubai, the first step is deciding where you’ll register your company. Dubai offers two main jurisdictions — Mainland and Free Zone — each with unique advantages. To choose the right jurisdiction, many entrepreneurs rely on UAE business setup experts who guide them based on goals and budget.
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Mainland Company
A Mainland company is regulated by the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) (formerly the Department of Economic Development).
This structure allows you to operate anywhere in the UAE, take on local contracts, and expand freely across the country. It’s ideal for businesses targeting the domestic market or working directly with UAE government entities.
🔗 Official DET website – dubaidet.gov.ae
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Free Zone Company
A Free Zone company is registered under one of Dubai’s many Free Zone authorities.
It allows 100% foreign ownership, fast registration, and zero customs duties, along with simplified visa and licensing processes.
Free Zones are perfect for start-ups and international companies that want a quick setup and cost-effective operations.
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Steps to Open a Company in Dubai
Setting up a company in Dubai involves several key steps — but with professional help, the process becomes smooth and predictable.
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1. Define Your Business Activity
Your business activity determines your license type — commercial, professional, or industrial.
You’ll need to clearly define whether your business involves trading, consulting, manufacturing, or services.
Check the full list of approved activities on the DET Business Activity List.
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2. Choose Your Jurisdiction (Mainland vs Free Zone)
This decision affects your ownership, market access, and cost.
- Choose Mainland if you want to operate across the UAE and target local clients.
- Choose Free Zone if you want full ownership and focus on international operations.
3. Reserve Your Trade Name & Get Initial Approvals
Select a unique business name and ensure it complies with UAE naming rules.
Submit it for approval through DET (for Mainland) or the respective Free Zone Authority.
Once approved, you’ll receive an initial approval certificate to proceed further.
🔗 Trade Name Registration – DET Portal
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4. Prepare Documentation & Submit Application
You’ll need to prepare:
- Passport copies of shareholders
- A brief business plan (for some Free Zones)
- Lease agreement (for office or flexi-desk)
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Local Service Agent agreement (for Mainland setups)
Our team at Peak Group – Company Formation Services ensures all documentation is accurate and complete for faster approvals.
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5. Obtain Your Business License
Once your documents are approved, pay the required fees and collect your Trade License. Depending on your activity, this can be:
- Commercial License
- Professional License
- Industrial License
This marks your business as officially registered and ready to operate.
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6. Visa, Bank Account & Compliance
Once your business license is issued, the next steps are:
- Apply for investor or employee visas
- Open a corporate bank account
- Register for VAT if applicable (threshold AED 375,000)
Peak Group also provides end-to-end Visa & PRO Services and Accounting & HR Solutions to keep your business fully compliant with UAE laws.
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Cost to Start a Business in Dubai
The cost of company formation in Dubai varies based on:
- Business license type
- Jurisdiction (Mainland or Free Zone)
- Number of visas required
- Office or flexi-desk requirements
Typically, a new business can start from AED 10,000 onwards, but actual costs depend on your chosen structure and location.
Free Zone setups are usually more affordable due to flexible packages, while Mainland setups may include extra fees for office space and regulatory approvals.
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Want to know your exact setup cost?
Get a personalized breakdown today. Our experts will calculate the total cost for your Dubai company formation and guide you through every detail.
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Timeline for Dubai Company Formation
One of Dubai’s biggest advantages is its fast registration process. With complete documentation, Free Zone companies can be set up in as little as 24–48 hours.
Mainland company registration may take 5–10 working days, depending on business type and office lease confirmations.
At Peak Group, we ensure each step — from approvals to licensing — is handled promptly, ensuring a smooth and compliant setup experience.
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Why Choose Peak Group
Choosing the right consultancy can save you time, money, and unnecessary delays. At Peak Group, we’ve helped hundreds of entrepreneurs successfully establish their presence in Dubai and across the UAE.
We provide:
- Company Formation & Structuring
- Business License Setup
- Tax & Compliance Advisory
- Visa & PRO Services
- HR & Accounting Support
Whether you’re setting up your first start-up or expanding your multinational operations, our team ensures a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
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Ready to Start Your Business in Dubai?
Let’s turn your business idea into reality. We’ll handle the entire process — from trade name registration to visa issuance — while you focus on growing your vision.
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Call +971 50 707 8555 or email dursamin@peakconsultancy.com to book a free consultation with Peak Group and receive a personalized company formation plan along with a tailored cost estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Opening a Company in Dubai
1. How do I start the process of opening a company in Dubai?
You begin by defining your business activity, choosing your jurisdiction (Mainland or Free Zone), reserving your trade name, preparing documents, and applying for your business license. Peak Group handles the entire process end-to-end, ensuring a smooth and fast setup.
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2. What is the difference between a Mainland company and a Free Zone company?
Mainland companies are registered under the Dubai DET and can operate anywhere in the UAE, work with government entities, and take on local clients.
Free Zone companies offer 100% foreign ownership, quick setup, and cost-effective packages but are generally restricted to operating within the Free Zone or internationally.
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3. How much does it cost to start a business in Dubai?
The cost to open a company in Dubai starts from AED 10,000, depending on your license type, jurisdiction, number of visas, and office requirements. Free Zone setups are usually cheaper, while Mainland setups may require additional approvals and office space.
For an accurate breakdown, Peak Group provides a free cost estimate based on your business activity.
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4. What documents are required for company formation in Dubai?
Common documents include:
Passport copies of all shareholders
Business plan (required by some Free Zones)
Office lease or Flexi-desk agreement
Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Initial approval & trade name reservation
Peak Group ensures all documentation is prepared accurately for faster approvals.
5. How long does it take to register a company in Dubai?
Free Zone company formation: 24–48 hours (with complete documents)
Mainland company formation: 5–10 working days
Timelines vary depending on business activity, approvals, and office lease confirmation.
6. Do I need a physical office to open a company in Dubai?
Mainland companies typically require a physical office or business centre lease.
Free Zones offer Flexi-desk or virtual office options, making the setup more cost-effective.
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7. Can I have 100% ownership of my company in Dubai?
Yes, Both Free Zone companies and many Mainland business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership due to updated UAE laws.
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8. What types of business licenses are available in Dubai?
Dubai offers three main license categories:
Commercial License (trading & e-commerce)
Professional License (services, consulting, HR, marketing, etc.)
Industrial License (manufacturing & production)
Peak Group advises you on the correct license based on your exact activity.
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9. Does my company need VAT registration in Dubai?
VAT registration is mandatory if your business revenue exceeds AED 375,000 annually.
Peak Group provides VAT registration, accounting, and compliance services to keep your business legally aligned.
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10. Can Peak Group help with visas and bank account opening?
Absolutely.
We assist with:
Investor & partner visas
Employee visas
PRO services
Corporate bank account opening (with UAE-wide bank support)
11. Can I run my business anywhere in the UAE?
Yes — but only if you choose a Mainland license.
Free Zone companies may need additional permits to operate on the Mainland or take on local clients.
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12. Why should I use a consultancy like Peak Group to set up my company?
Peak Group saves you time, money, and the complexity of dealing with multiple government portals. We offer:
End-to-end company formation
Business license setup
Tax, VAT & compliance services
HR, payroll & accounting support
Visa & PRO services
All tailored to your business needs — ensuring a fast, compliant, and stress-free setup.