INCORPORATION

Set up your company in Dubai
in 5 days

Whether you choose the Free Zone or the Mainland, a business license, a bank account, or an entrepreneur visa,
La Riviera will guide you every step of the way in setting up your business in the UAE.

 

Free Zone vs. Mainland: A Comparison

Criteria Freezone Mainland
Ownership 100% foreign 100% foreign (since 2020)
Local activity Restricted to the zone Unrestricted
VAT 5% (or exempt) 5%
Corporate tax 0% (if eligible) 9% above AED 375K
Office required Flexi-desk possible Yes (ejari)
Visas included 1–6 depending on zone Based on office size
Setup timeline 3–5 days 5–10 days

4-Step Creation Process

Choosing the structure (Day 1)

Free Zone or Mainland? We’ll analyze your business, target market, and objectives to help you choose the best structure.

Name reservation (1–2 days)

Verification and registration of the business name. Selection of business activity and license.

Legal Incorporation (2–3 days)

Drafting of the articles of incorporation and the memorandum of association, and filing with the appropriate authority.

License issuance (3–5 days)

Issuance of the business license. Opening of a business bank account.

Popular Free Zones

Freezone Location Specialty Visas
DMCC JLT Trading, commodities Up to 6
DIFC Downtown Finance, consulting Up to 6
IFZA Fujairah E-commerce, services Up to 6
Dubai South Al Maktoum Logistics, e-commerce Up to 6
DAFZA Airport Import/export, tech Up to 6

Frequently Asked Questions

Which type of company should you choose: Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore?

The Free Zone is ideal for 100% foreign ownership, tax exemption, and international business operations. The Mainland allows for unrestricted trade throughout the UAE market. The Offshore option is suitable for a wealth management holding company. We will guide you based on your business activities, target clients, and tax objectives.

Expect to pay between 12,000 and 25,000 AED for a Free Zone company, depending on the jurisdiction and the number of visas, and between 25,000 and 50,000 AED for a Mainland company. Annual license renewal fees are additional. We provide a detailed quote with no hidden fees.

Yes, starting a business entitles you to a 2- or 3-year Investor Visa, as well as employee visas depending on the package you choose. You can also sponsor your spouse and children once you have obtained residency.

 

For most Free Zones, a visit of just a few days is sufficient to finalize your Emirates ID and visa. Some jurisdictions even allow the entire process to be completed remotely. We coordinate all the necessary steps to ensure your trip is as short as possible.

Get your Residence Visa


Free eligibility assessment and comprehensive support until you receive your Emirates ID.

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