Frequently asked questions
Everything entrepreneurs ask before setting up in Dubai: company structures, visas, taxes, timelines, sponsorship and banking.
Your questions, answered
Dubai is among the seven emirates of the UAE, known for its infrastructure, digitalised government and ease of doing business. It offers direct access to the European, African and Asia-Pacific markets, zero personal and corporate income tax for most activities, and 100% capital repatriation.
Three main options exist: free zone entities (100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions), mainland (onshore) structures which may require a local partner depending on the activity, and representative offices used for market presence and information gathering.
Yes. Owners and managers need residence visas to live and work in the UAE and to employ staff. The exception is offshore companies, which do not carry visas since their owners cannot conduct business inside the UAE.
Every license in the UAE must be renewed annually, whether it is a mainland or a free zone license. Non-renewal results in penalties and can lead to visa cancellation.
A trade license is typically issued within 3 to 4 working days once documents are in order. Residence visa applications take around 4 to 6 weeks.
For most activities there is no personal income tax, and competitive corporate tax rules apply with generous thresholds. A 5% import duty applies when clearing goods through UAE ports. We advise you on the current tax position for your specific activity.
We accept cash, cheque and structured partial payments, with flexibility designed for startups.
The complete process usually takes 5 to 6 working days, including the required medical examinations for visa processing.
Yes, physical presence is required for notary formalities at certain steps of the incorporation. We schedule these to keep your travel to a minimum.
It depends on your activity, ownership needs, target market and budget. A short consultation with our advisors is the fastest way to identify the right mainland, free zone or offshore structure.
Yes. Educational and corporate documents require attestation at the UAE embassy in your country and at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Our PRO team handles the process.
A corporate account is usually fully operational within about one week, depending on the bank's compliance checks. Our banking relationships help keep this on track.
Yes. Family members and dependants, including spouse, children and domestic staff, can obtain residence visas under your sponsorship.
It depends on your company structure. Where a sponsor is required, our Emirati nominee service provides one while protecting your full financial and operational control.
Yes, an address is required to prove business existence and provide an operational location. Virtual office packages satisfy this requirement at a fraction of the cost of physical space.
Fees vary by jurisdiction, activity and services required. We provide a transparent, itemised quote before you commit, and packages that reduce the overall cost.
Yes. We offer customised packages covering the license and related formalities: visas, attestations, PRO services and banking support.
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