Choose the right jurisdiction. We will handle the rest.
Mainland, free zone or offshore — the right answer depends on where you will trade, who owns the company, whether you need visas and how you will be taxed.
In practice, the choice rarely turns on a single factor. Where your customers are, how many visas you need and what your bank will expect to see often matter more than the licence fee. The table below is where we start the conversation with each client, before confirming the position for your activity.
| Mainland | Free Zone | Offshore | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where you can trade | Anywhere in the UAE market | Within the free zone and internationally; the UAE mainland through a distributor or additional permit | Outside the UAE only |
| Foreign ownership | Up to 100% for most activities | 100% | 100% |
| Office | Physical registered office required | From flexi-desk to full office | Registered agent address; no office |
| UAE residence visas | Yes | Yes | No |
| Corporate tax | 9% on taxable income above AED 375,000 | 0% on qualifying income for Qualifying Free Zone Persons; 9% otherwise | Within scope of UAE corporate tax; treatment depends on activities |
| Typically used for | Trading, retail, services and contracting in the local market | International trade, consulting, technology and regional headquarters | Holding companies and the protection of assets and IP |
A general overview only. Requirements vary by emirate, free zone and business activity — we confirm the position for your case.
Trade anywhere in the UAE
The limited liability company (LLC) is the most widely used mainland vehicle, licensed for a broad range of trading, commercial and industrial activities — and, following recent amendments to the Commercial Companies Law, certain professional activities. Depending on the activity, full foreign ownership may be permitted.
An LLC needs a registered office and is managed by a General Manager, typically resident in the UAE. There is no general minimum share capital, although some activities require more. Mainland companies are licensed by the economic department of each emirate — in Dubai, the Department of Economy and Tourism — and governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 32 of 2021 on Commercial Companies.
More than 40 free zones. We find yours.
With more than 40 free zones across the UAE, choosing the right one is often the hardest part. Each has its own permitted activities, costs, facilities and reputation, and many offer flexible flexi-desk and office arrangements.
Free zone companies allow 100% foreign ownership and full repatriation of profits, with a high degree of privacy. We compare the options against your activity, budget and visa needs, and recommend the zone that fits.
Hold, protect and trade internationally
An offshore company is used mainly as a holding company, and also for international trading, contracting, consulting and protecting assets and intellectual property. Shareholder and director details are not published on a public register, and ongoing requirements are light — though annual compliance obligations must still be met.
An offshore company cannot do business within the UAE and cannot sponsor UAE residence visas. Offshore companies fall within the scope of UAE corporate tax; we advise on registration and treatment for your structure.
From first conversation to trading
- 01Consultation
We learn about your activity, ownership, timeline and visa needs.
- 02Recommendation
A clear recommendation on structure, jurisdiction and costs.
- 03Incorporation
Trade name, approvals, documents and licence — handled with the authorities.
- 04Bank, visas and beyond
Corporate bank account, residence visas and ongoing compliance support.
Not sure which door is yours?
A short consultation is usually enough to narrow it down.