1. Choose your business activity
Your activity decides which license you need, which jurisdictions you can use and whether extra approvals apply. Many free zones let you combine several related activities on one license.
Business Setup Consultants in Dubai
Business Setup in Dubai & Government Services, Done Quickly
QuickDCC handles company formation in Dubai and across the UAE: mainland, free zone and offshore. We also take care of visas, the Golden Visa, PRO services and government transactions, so one team takes you from trade license to bank account.
- Fast setup
- Transparent pricing
- End-to-end support
Department of Economy & Tourism (DET)GDRFA DubaiICPMOHREFederal Tax AuthorityMOFADubai ChamberUAE Free Zones
Our Services
Company formation, visas and government services in Dubai
Everything you need to start, run and grow a business in the UAE, handled by one team.
Company Formation
Mainland, free zone and offshore company setup across Dubai and the UAE.
Mainland Company Formation
DET-licensed LLCs and sole establishments that can trade anywhere in the UAE and bid for government contracts.
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Free Zone Company Setup
100% foreign-owned companies in DMCC, IFZA, Meydan, RAKEZ and other free zones, with flexi-desk options.
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Offshore Company Formation
RAK ICC, JAFZA Offshore and Ajman Offshore companies for holding assets and international business.
Learn moreVisas & Residency
Investor, employment, family and Golden Visa applications.
PRO & Government Services
Government transactions, PRO support, attestation and license renewals.
PRO Services
Outsourced PRO support for visas, labour and immigration files, renewals and government approvals.
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Government Transactions
Transactions with GDRFA, ICP, MOHRE, DET, MOFA, Dubai Courts and other UAE authorities for companies and individuals.
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Document Attestation
Degree, marriage, birth and commercial document attestation through notary, embassy and MOFA.
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Trade License Renewal
On-time mainland and free zone license renewals, amendments, activity changes and liquidation.
Learn moreTax & Banking
Corporate bank accounts, VAT and corporate tax registration.
How It Works
How to set up a company in Dubai in five steps
A simple, transparent process with updates at every stage.
- 01
Free consultation
We learn about your business, budget and goals, then recommend the right jurisdiction and activities.
- 02
Plan & documents
You get a written cost breakdown and a checklist of the documents we need. No hidden fees.
- 03
Registration & license
We reserve your trade name, secure approvals and get your trade license issued.
- 04
Visas, bank & tax
Residence visas, Emirates ID, corporate bank account, and VAT and corporate tax registration.
- 05
Ongoing support
License renewals, PRO services and government transactions as your business grows.
Choose Your Jurisdiction
Mainland vs free zone vs offshore company in the UAE
A quick overview. We help you choose the right structure for your activity and plans.
| Feature | Mainland | Free Zone | Offshore |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ownership | 100% foreign ownership for most activities | 100% foreign ownership | 100% foreign ownership |
| Where you can trade | Anywhere in the UAE and internationally | Within the free zone and internationally | Outside the UAE only |
| Office requirement | Physical office with Ejari | Flexi-desk and shared office options | No office; registered agent |
| Government contracts | Eligible | Limited | Not eligible |
| Residence visas | Yes, based on office size | Yes, based on package | No |
| Corporate tax | 9% above AED 375,000 | 0% on qualifying income for Qualifying Free Zone Persons | Depends on management and income |
| Best for | Retail, local services, UAE market | Start-ups, e-commerce, consulting, trading | Holding companies, asset protection |
Learn more about mainland company formation, free zone company setup and offshore company formation.
Guide
Starting a business in Dubai: what you need to know
Dubai is one of the most popular places in the world to start a company, thanks to full foreign ownership options, a strategic location and a business-friendly tax system. Here are the decisions that shape your setup.
2. Pick mainland, free zone or offshore
Mainland suits businesses selling across the UAE, free zones suit international and service businesses, and offshore companies suit holding structures. The right choice depends on your customers and visas.
3. Plan your budget
Budget for the license, office or flexi-desk, residence visas, Emirates ID and medical tests, and bank account opening. Renewal costs matter as much as year-one costs.
4. Stay compliant
After setup, you need to register for corporate tax, register for VAT once you pass the threshold, keep your UBO register up to date and renew your license and visas on time.
Why QuickDCC
A business setup partner that moves as fast as you do
QuickDCC helps entrepreneurs, start-ups, SMEs and international investors launch and grow in Dubai. We cut through the paperwork, explain every cost up front, and stay with you long after your license is issued.
About QuickDCCSpeed without shortcuts
Clear document checklists and experienced handling avoid the back-and-forth that delays most setups.
Transparent pricing
A written breakdown of government and service fees before you start, with no surprises later.
Advice that fits your plan
We recommend jurisdiction, activities and visas based on your actual business, not the package we want to sell.
One team, start to finish
Company formation, visas, banking, tax and ongoing PRO work with a single point of contact.
Insights
Latest business setup guides
Practical advice on starting and running a business in Dubai and the UAE.
FAQ
Business setup in Dubai: frequently asked questions
How much does business setup in Dubai cost?
It depends on the jurisdiction, business activity, number of visas and office type. Free zone licenses generally cost less to start than mainland companies, but visas and office space change the total. We give you a written, itemised quote after a free consultation.
How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?
Free zone companies can often be licensed within a few working days once documents are ready. Mainland setups usually take one to two weeks or longer, depending on approvals and office arrangements. Visas and bank accounts take additional time.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Dubai?
Yes. Free zone and offshore companies allow full foreign ownership, and most mainland activities have allowed 100% foreign ownership since 2021. A small number of strategic activities still have restrictions, which we check for you.
Should I choose mainland, free zone or offshore?
Choose mainland to trade directly across the UAE or bid for government contracts, a free zone for international business or a lower-cost start, and offshore for holding assets without UAE trading or visas.
Do I need to be in the UAE to start a business?
Many free zone and offshore setups can be started remotely. You will typically need to visit the UAE for your visa medical test, Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening.
Do you help with government transactions after the company is set up?
Yes. Our PRO and government transaction services cover visas, Emirates ID, labour and immigration files, license renewals, attestation and other transactions with UAE authorities.
Free Consultation
Tell us about your business
Share a few details and a QuickDCC consultant will get back to you with the best setup option and a clear quote. No obligation.
- Quick response
- Dubai setup specialists
- No obligation
