COMPANY REGISTRATION
BUSINESS SUPPORT
Experts of our company assist you to select the most suitable license according to your business requirements
​We simplify the process of setting up your business in the UAE. Whether you're looking to establish a mainland, free zone, or branch company, our experts guide you through every step — from choosing the right jurisdiction to handling all legal and administrative requirements. We ensure a smooth, compliant, and hassle-free company registration experience tailored to your business goals.
TYPES OF COMPANIES
Mainland company
A UAE Mainland Company is a business entity licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of the respective emirate. It is permitted to conduct business both within the UAE domestic market and abroad.
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Features of Mainland Companies:
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Freedom to Operate Anywhere in the UAE
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Mainland companies can do business both within and outside the UAE without restrictions. Unlike free zone companies, they are not limited to specific zones or locations.
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Access to Government Contracts
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Mainland companies are eligible to tender for lucrative government and semi-government projects, which are usually off-limits to free zone entities.
No Office Space Restrictions
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These companies can open multiple branches across the UAE.
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They are not tied to a specific location or office within a zone, giving you flexibility in choosing your office space.
Wider Scope of Business Activities
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Mainland licenses cover a broader range of commercial and professional activities, including some that free zones might restrict.
Easier Visa Quota Allocation
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No fixed limit on the number of visas (depends on office size).
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Ideal for businesses planning to scale their workforce.
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Access to UAE Market and Banking Facilities
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Easier to open corporate bank accounts.
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Greater trust and credibility with UAE-based clients and institutions.
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Full Foreign Ownership (in most activities)
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As of 2021, the UAE allows 100% foreign ownership for many business activities on the mainland — no need for a UAE national partner or sponsor for most business activities.
Free Zone company
UAE Free zone companies are ideal for businesses focused on international trade, services, or manufacturing. However, they are restricted from conducting business in the UAE market without a local distributor or agent.
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Features of Free Zone Companies:
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100% Foreign Ownership
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You can own your company fully without needing a local partner for all available activities. This has always been a strong advantage of free zones.
Full Repatriation of Profits and Capital
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No restrictions on sending your profits or capital back to your home country.
Simplified Setup Process
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Many free zones offer a fast, straightforward registration process, often within a few days.
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Convenient registration procedure without physical presence in the UAE of shareholders.
Affordable Office Options
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Flexi-desks, virtual offices, and small shared spaces are available — ideal for startups and freelancers.
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No need for a physical office in most free zones.
Easy Maintenance of the Company
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Free zones often provide license packages with discounts, strong administrative support, including visa services, bank account setup assistance, and networking events.
Customs and Import/Export Benefits
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Free zones are outside the UAE’s customs territory.
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Ideal for international trading and logistics companies.
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No Local Market Restrictions (with a Distributor)
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While direct trade in the UAE mainland is restricted, you can sell in the local market via a distributor or mainland agent.
Privacy and Confidentiality
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Free zones typically offer higher privacy regarding ownership and shareholding structures.
International Business Companies (IBC)
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In the UAE, International Business Companies (IBCs) are typically established in offshore jurisdictions. They are primarily intended for international trade, asset protection, holding structures, and other activities with minimal or no local operations.
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These companies can hold assets, conduct international business, and open corporate bank accounts in the UAE. However, they are not permitted to conduct business within the UAE or offer services to UAE residents.
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Features of IBCs:
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- 100% Foreign Ownership
No need for a local sponsor – full control remains with the foreign shareholder(s).​
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- Tax Efficiency - UAE IBCs benefit from zero corporate and personal income tax, making them ideal for global operations and asset protection.
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- Confidentiality & Privacy
Shareholder and director details are not publicly disclosed, ensuring maximum confidentiality.
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- Asset Protection
UAE offshore jurisdictions offer robust legal structures that protect personal and corporate assets.
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- No Office Requirement
IBCs do not need to rent physical office space in the UAE – a registered agent and address are sufficient.
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- Ease of Maintenance
Simple annual renewal procedures, no requirement to file audited financials (unless requested), and minimal compliance.
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