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Company formation in the UAE - secure and guaranteed
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Tackling the toughest cases
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We work with all UAE jurisdictions, ensuring an impartial selection of your legal entity
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We work directly with regulators, which reduces the cost of our services.
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What are the advantages for business owners in the UAE?
Real government guaranteesThe government ensures the protection of investors' rights: both local and foreign entrepreneurs enjoy equal opportunities.
Financial freedomThere are no restrictions on capital movement and personal income taxes. A low VAT rate is in place.
Legal statusCompanies receive a TRN (Tax Registration Number), which instills high confidence among international partners and financial institutions.
Tax residencyAll company shareholders can obtain a residency visa and subsequently achieve tax residency status, which safeguards against the exchange of tax information (CRS).
Strategic locationThe UAE serves as an international transportation and trade hub, an ideal logistics center at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Market accessAccess to duty-free trade with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The GCC is a growing market due to government initiatives, infrastructure development, and economic diversification.
Accredited partners of leading Free Zone companies
The difference between Free Zone and Mainland
There are two main types of companies: Mainland and Free zone. The government offers each of them different business operation opportunities and determines their geographical presence.
Unique opportunities of a company in Mainland
Local companies benefit from maximum government support. A special tool for business development in the domestic UAE market and beyond. The organizational and legal form is defined by legislation and has no equivalent in other countries.
Organizational and Legal Structure
They are classified into professional, commercial, and production categories.
Need for an office
Laws require the presence of an office, a commercial space with Estidama/Ejari registration.
Business licensing
Conducting business in the UAE requires obtaining a license, which serves as the primary founding document. The license is issued for one year with the possibility of renewal.
Company management
A general manager is appointed, and the activity of multiple directors is possible. The division of their rights and responsibilities is determined by the articles of association.
Local agent
It is necessary to enter into an agreement with a local agent who is not a shareholder. Nominally represents interests in government authorities. Having an agent increases the loyalty of banks and counterparts.
Advantages of registering your company in a Free Zone
A cost-effective solution for establishing international business. The opportunity to leverage the benefits of legislation, banking systems, and a well-developed transportation and logistics infrastructure.
International business
Tax Minimization through the absence of corporate taxes in international operations.
Asset management
Real estate and assets, including those abroad, can be registered on the company's balance sheet.
Production organization
Advantages of duty-free import of raw materials, storage in Free Zone territories, and export of finished products beyond the UAE.
Trade activities
The opportunity to engage in international trade, export, re-export, and sell goods locally through distributors.
Service provision
The ability to offer a wide range of services to international counterparts, including within the Free Zone where the company is registered.
FAQ
Company registration is permitted for both legal entities and individuals who are at least 21 years old. However, some Free Zones impose restrictions, stating that individuals under 25 years old cannot be the owners of a company. Citizenship, nationality, and even religion have no impact on the registration process.
Yes, most processes can be completed remotely. Physical presence in the UAE is only required for obtaining Emirates ID and opening a bank account.
If you are opening a local company, there is no need to contribute paid-up capital. However, most Free Zones make this a mandatory requirement for registering a business in their jurisdiction.
The most popular Free Zones among non-resident investors include:
- Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC): One of the most regulated business hubs contributing to business growth.
- Dubai World Central (DWC): The second-largest free zone in Dubai offering extensive opportunities for trade, manufacturing, and warehousing operations.
- Dubai Creative Clusters Authority (DCCA): Established in 2000 to support the media and entertainment industry, serving creative and intellectual sectors.
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC): Preferred by trading and service companies.
- Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC): Established in 2002 and considered one of the most reliable business jurisdictions.
- Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA): A leading business jurisdiction playing a key role in the growth of import and export companies.
- Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO): Infrastructure for technology institutions and commercial firms.
The tax-free image does not entirely reflect reality. Companies pay an annual license fee, which can be considered a hidden tax. The sale of goods, services, and work is generally subject to a 5% VAT. Additionally, from July 1, 2023, a corporate tax (9%) will be introduced, applicable to Mainland companies and Free Zone companies generating income on the UAE mainland. Currently, corporate tax is paid by two categories: oil and gas companies, and branches of foreign banks. Excise taxes are also imposed on specific goods (tobacco, electronic cigarettes - 100%, carbonated drinks - 50%), property transfer tax (varies by emirate, e.g., in Dubai - 4%), and customs duties (5%).