Answers before you commit

The UAE has no personal income tax. Corporate tax generally applies at 9% on taxable income above AED 375,000, while qualifying Free Zone income may benefit from a 0% rate. VAT and other obligations can apply, so each business should get advice for its activities.

A practical starting budget is often AED 20,000–30,000, but the final amount depends on jurisdiction, business activity, visa allocation, office needs, and external approvals. We provide an itemised estimate before you proceed.

Not always. Many company types can be incorporated while you live abroad. Residency can make banking and day-to-day management easier, and some regulated activities may have additional requirements.

Yes. Free Zone companies and most Mainland activities allow 100% foreign ownership. A small number of strategic activities remain subject to specific ownership or approval rules.

Mainland companies can generally trade throughout the UAE and pursue government work. Free Zone companies are established within a specific economic zone and often offer streamlined setup, specialist ecosystems, and attractive packages. The right choice depends on clients, activities, visas, and physical presence.

Offshore structures are commonly used for international trade, holding shares or assets, and cross-border investment. They are not intended for operating a shop or office in the UAE and generally do not provide residency visas.

Straightforward Free Zone or Mainland applications may be completed in a few working days once documents and approvals are ready. Regulated activities, visas, offices, and banking add time.

Typically, shareholders provide passport copies, photographs, contact details, and proof of address. A business plan, qualification, NOC, or prior approval may be required depending on the activity and jurisdiction.

Yes. We help prepare the company profile, supporting documents, and application, then introduce suitable banking options. Account approval remains the bank’s decision and depends on the business model and compliance review.

Eligible UAE residents can generally sponsor spouses, children, and in some cases parents, subject to current income, accommodation, insurance, and immigration requirements.