The cost depends on several factors—like the type of business activity, location (Mainland or Free Zone), visa requirements, and office space. At Ofin Global, we offer a free consultation to help you understand exact costs based on your business goals—no hidden fees, no confusing estimates.
Most Free Zone or Mainland companies can be incorporated within 2 to 8 working days, assuming documentation is in place. Some Free Zones are faster than others, while government-related approvals might extend timelines for specific activities.
A good consultant ensures that you don’t make expensive mistakes. From choosing the right license and jurisdiction to handling documentation, banking, visas, and compliance—they save time, reduce risk, and guide you legally and strategically.
Yes. As per updated UAE laws, 100% foreign ownership is allowed across most Free Zones and many Mainland activities—though a few strategic sectors may still require a local Emirati shareholder.
Look for someone who offers genuine advisory, not just license processing. A good consultant should understand your business, offer end-to-end support, be transparent with pricing, and have a strong compliance background—like we do at Ofin Global.
A Mainland company is registered with Dubai’s Department of Economy & Tourism (DET). It allows you to do business across the UAE, work with government clients, and open physical offices anywhere. You also have no visa quota limitations (depending on office size).
You’ll need to select your activity, choose a name, get initial approvals, draft the MOA, arrange office space, and submit documentation for final licensing. We manage all of this for you while keeping you updated at each step.
If all documents are ready and your activity doesn’t require special approval, the license can be issued in 2–4 working days.
Yes, for most activities. The UAE has allowed full foreign ownership in Mainland companies across a wide range of sectors—though a few regulated sectors still require a local partner.
Yes, you can migrate or restructure to a Mainland setup, though it involves a fresh incorporation process. We guide you through legal closure of the Free Zone entity and seamless formation in the Mainland.
Only if your business falls under restricted or strategic activities (like oil & gas, defense, etc.) which require a local Emirati shareholder. Most standard businesses no longer need a sponsor.
Typically:
Free Zones are economic areas offering 100% ownership, zero import/export duty, and often no corporate tax. They’re ideal for international trading, consultancy, and online businesses.
Common categories include:
Some zones offer specialized tech or media licenses.
Yes. Free Zones offer various options like:
Zones like SHAMS (Sharjah), SPC (Sharjah Publishing City), and RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah) offer budget-friendly packages starting from AED 6,500. The choice depends on activity, visa needs, and branding requirements.
If a Free Zone company meets certain conditions (like transacting only within the Free Zone or internationally), it qualifies for 0% corporate tax. Violating these conditions may trigger 9% standard UAE corporate tax.
Not directly. To operate in Mainland, a Free Zone company must:
An Offshore company is mainly for international operations—you can’t trade within UAE or have office space. Free Zone companies can operate in the UAE (with some restrictions) and get visas, bank accounts, and physical presence.
Yes, both Mainland and Free Zone setups require an address. Many Free Zones offer virtual or flexi-desk options, while Mainland companies need a physical office (Ejari lease).
Absolutely. Many of our Indian clients manage their UAE businesses remotely. You’ll still need to visit once for bank and visa formalities, unless you appoint us with Power of Attorney to act on your behalf.
Basic setups can start from as low as AED 6,500 to 10,000, especially in Free Zones with no visa requirement. Visa, office space, and activity type may increase total costs.
Free Zone = 100% foreign ownership + limited to specific zones + cannot sell directly in UAE
Mainland = Can sell across UAE + full market access + can bid for government contracts
Most Free Zone incorporations can be done 100% remotely. For banking and visa, a physical visit is preferred or required. We’ll guide you on exceptions and remote execution options.
Yes. Business owners are eligible for 2–3 year residency visas. You can also sponsor dependents and employees under the company.
Usually not. The UAE has Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAA) with India. If your UAE income is not remitted as personal income in India, you may not be taxed there. Always consult your CA.
No fine for inactivity—but you must renew the license, file returns, and keep the company compliant to avoid penalties.
Yes. Flexi-desk or physical office is required depending on how many visas you want. Some Free Zones allow 1–3 visas with minimal desk space.
Yes, as long as your company complies with annual renewal, accounting, and regulatory filings—even if it doesn’t generate income. Many companies are registered just for holding or strategic purposes.
