How to register a company in Dubai: step-by-step (2026)
To register a company in Dubai you choose between a Free Zone and a Mainland setup, select your business activities, apply for a Trade License, arrange visas and open a corporate bank account. Here is the step-by-step, plus what happens after you launch.
Step 1: Free Zone or Mainland?
Free Zones offer 100% foreign ownership, simple setup and packages that bundle license and visas, but you mainly trade internationally or within the zone. Mainland lets you trade freely across the UAE market and win government contracts. Your customers decide which fits.
Step 2: Choose activities and a legal form
Your Trade License lists specific business activities, so pick the ones that match what you actually do. Then choose a legal form, commonly an FZ-LLC in a Free Zone or an LLC on the Mainland.
Step 3: Get your Trade License
You submit your application, name reservation and documents to the Free Zone authority or the DED. Once approved and paid, you receive your Trade License, which is the legal basis to operate.
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Try free for 1 monthStep 4: Visas and a corporate bank account
With the license you can apply for your residence visa and Emirates ID, then open a corporate bank account. Bank onboarding can take time and needs clean documentation about your business.
Step 5: Set up bookkeeping and tax from day one
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Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to register a company in Dubai?
It varies widely by Free Zone or Mainland, activities and visas. Free Zone packages often start a few thousand AED per year, plus visa and office costs.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Dubai?
Yes. Free Zones allow 100% foreign ownership, and many Mainland activities now do too.
Do I need an office to register a company?
You need a registered address. Many Free Zones offer flexi-desk or virtual office options that satisfy this requirement.
Note: This article is for general information only and does not replace individual tax advice.
