FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
We've grouped the questions we get most. If you can't find yours, write in — we'll answer it and add it here.
Setup and cost
What does it cost to set up a company in Dubai?
Quoting a single figure wouldn't be honest; five items set the cost: the free zone or emirate chosen, the number and type of activities, the visa allocation, the office type and the shareholding structure.
Our service fees are published and appear as a separate line in your quote — not hidden inside the government charges.
How long does setup take?
Where documents are in order and the activity needs no additional approval, free zone incorporation can complete in seven working days. Activities requiring approval and mainland incorporations take longer.
Free zone or mainland?
The deciding question is: where is your customer? If you sell abroad or to businesses, a free zone is usually enough. If you'll sell directly to end customers inside the UAE, open a shop or bid for government work, you need mainland.
Is there a minimum capital requirement?
Most free zones require a declared capital figure, but blocking it is generally not required. The requirement varies by zone and company type; we confirm the current position for the zone you choose.
Tax
Is there really no tax in the UAE?
There is no personal income tax — salary, rent and personal investment income are not taxed. But corporate tax has existed since 2023: 0% on taxable profit up to AED 375,000 a year and 9% above it.
There is also 5% VAT. Sources saying "no tax at all in the UAE" pre-date 2023.
Is corporate tax zero in a free zone?
Conditionally, yes. A company meeting the Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) conditions pays 0% on its qualifying income.
The status is not automatic: adequate substance, audited financial statements and transfer pricing documentation are among the conditions. Non-qualifying income falls under the general regime.
Do I have to register for corporate tax?
Yes. Corporate tax registration is mandatory even where no tax is payable and your rate is 0%.
When do I have to register for VAT?
Registration is mandatory if your taxable turnover exceeded AED 375,000 over the previous 12 months, or is expected to in the next 30 days; you have 20 working days to apply once the threshold is crossed. Above AED 187,500 you may register voluntarily.
Visas and residence
Can I get a residence visa by setting up a company?
Yes; owning a company is one of the fastest routes to UAE residence. After the licence is issued, the establishment card is obtained, the entry permit is issued, and after the medical and biometrics the residence stamp and Emirates ID follow.
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Once you hold residence you can sponsor your spouse, your children and, if you meet the conditions, your parents. Minimum income thresholds apply, and the threshold for parents is markedly higher.
How do I keep my visa valid?
To keep a residence visa valid you must not remain outside the UAE for more than six months.
Am I eligible for the Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa requires you to fall into one of the defined categories: investors, senior executives, specialists, researchers, athletes, artists, inventors and outstanding students. Each carries its own conditions. We run a profile assessment before you spend on an application.
Banking, remote setup and after
Do I need to come to the UAE?
Most of the incorporation can be run from abroad. Two things require you here: the medical and biometrics for the residence visa, and the in-person signing most banks require. We plan those so they fit into a single trip.
Why does opening a bank account take so long?
UAE banks are subject to international anti-money-laundering and know-your-customer rules. The bank wants to understand that your business is real, where the funds come from and what the commercial logic is. Standard processing can take 25 working days or more depending on the complexity of the file.
What do I have to do once the company exists?
There are obligations that come round annually: licence renewal, visa renewal, keeping accounting records, VAT returns, the corporate tax return and any compliance filings. We track that calendar and remind you before things fall due.
Will you take over work for a company set up elsewhere?
Yes. We take on accounting, VAT, payroll, compliance and PRO services. Before the handover we review the state of the existing records and close any gaps first.
What if I want to close my company?
Liquidation is a process that has to be managed too: cancelling the licence, cancelling visas, closing the bank account and obtaining authority clearances. Companies not closed properly accumulate penalties; we handle this process as well.
Your question not here?
Write in — we'll answer it, and if it's useful we'll add it to this page.