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World-class free zones, 0% personal income tax, and a global trade hub.
The UAE is one of the world's most business-friendly environments, offering 0% personal income tax, 100% foreign ownership in free zones, and world-class infrastructure. With over 40 free zones and a strategic location between East and West, the UAE is ideal for entrepreneurs and investors seeking a global base.
Best for
Choose the right business structure based on your ownership goals, activities, and budget.
Operate freely across the UAE market, accept government contracts, and open offices anywhere.
100% foreign ownership, 0% corporate tax, quick setup, and easy bank account opening.
Extend your foreign company's operations into the UAE without forming a new legal entity.
For skilled professionals, consultants, and service providers operating as sole practitioners.
Follow these steps to successfully register and launch your business.
Determine your business activities to identify the right license type.
Decide between Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore based on your business model.
Submit and reserve your company name with the relevant authority.
Obtain initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or free zone authority.
Gather passport copies, photographs, and any required business plans.
Sign the Memorandum of Association and, if required, a Local Service Agent agreement.
Lease an office, co-working space, or flexi desk to satisfy address requirements.
Receive your business license after all approvals and documentation are verified.
Apply for the company establishment card to sponsor employee and investor visas.
Process investor or partner residence visa for company shareholders.
Open a corporate bank account with a local or international bank.
Ensure annual license renewals, VAT registration (if applicable), and ongoing compliance.
Explore the immigration and residency pathways available for business owners and investors.
A 2â3 year renewable visa for company shareholders and investors.
Long-term 5 or 10-year residency visa for investors, entrepreneurs, and talented professionals.
Sponsor your employees with UAE residence visas once the company establishment card is issued.
Estimated timelines for each phase of your business setup.
Phase 1
5â15 working days
Name reservation to license issuance.
Phase 2
10â20 working days
DED approval, MOA drafting, and license issuance.
Phase 3
2â6 weeks
Varies by bank, due diligence, and documentation completeness.
Phase 4
2â4 weeks
After establishment card issuance.
Information on this website is provided for general guidance only and may change based on government rules, jurisdiction, business activity, and individual circumstances. Silicon Mappers provides consultancy support but does not guarantee visa, bank account, licensing, or government approval outcomes. Final costs depend on jurisdiction, activity, authority approval, and individual circumstances.
Silicon Mappers manages the complexity of global expansion so your leadership team can focus on what matters â growing the business.