Business Setup in UAE – Company Formation, Licensing & Registration Services

What’s Included in Our UAE Company Formation Service

Our comprehensive business setup package covers every step needed to launch your company in the UAE — from choosing the right jurisdiction to obtaining your license, visas, and corporate bank account.

Business Activity & Jurisdiction Assessment

Detailed consultation to determine the most suitable business activity, jurisdiction (Mainland, Free Zone, Offshore), and corporate structure based on your goals, ownership needs, and budget.

Trade Name Reservation & Initial Approvals

Complete support with selecting and reserving your trade name, securing initial approvals from the Department of Economic Development or relevant free zone authorities.

Document Preparation & Legal Drafting

Full preparation of all required documents, including Memorandum of Association (MOA), shareholder resolutions, and legal forms. We handle drafting, notarization, and verification.

License Issuance & Government Coordination

End-to-end processing of your commercial, professional, or industrial license with all UAE authorities. Continuous follow-up until the license is issued.

Office Solutions & Ejari Registration

Assistance with selecting suitable office space — virtual office, flexi-desk, or physical office — and completing Ejari registration where required.

Visa & Establishment Card Processing

Full handling of investor visa applications, establishment card issuance, and company immigration file setup for future employee visas.

Corporate Bank Account Support

Guidance and introductions to major UAE banks and fintech platforms. Assistance with documentation, compliance requirements, and smooth account opening.

Post-Incorporation Support

Ongoing assistance with renewals, amendments, activity additions, UBO registration, and compliance with UAE regulations.

How Our Company Formation Process Works

Schedule a Quick Call

Book a free consultation with our business setup specialists to discuss your company requirements and goals.

Business Activity & Jurisdiction Review

We help you choose the right business activity, structure, and jurisdiction (Mainland, Free Zone, Offshore) based on your plan and budget.

Documentation & Legal Drafting

Our team prepares and reviews all required documents, including MOA, applications, and approvals needed to proceed.

License Application & Government Follow-up

We submit your application to the relevant UAE authorities and manage all communication until your business license is issued.

Company Activation & Post-Setup Support

After licensing, we assist with visas, banking, establishment card, and all post-incorporation requirements.

Ready to start your UAE company formation journey?

Book Free Consultation

Who Can Set Up a Company in the UAE?

The UAE welcomes entrepreneurs, investors, and global businesses from all backgrounds. Here are the groups most commonly eligible to establish a company in the UAE.

Investors

Individuals or corporations looking to establish commercial presence or invest in profitable UAE ventures.

Entrepreneurs

Startup founders, business owners, and innovators launching new ideas or expanding operations in the UAE.

Global Companies

International businesses opening branch offices, subsidiaries, or regional headquarters in the UAE.

Freelancers & Independent Professionals

Specialists seeking to legally offer services in the UAE through a freelancer or professional license.

Frequently Asked Questions

We have summarized and answered frequently asked questions for you.

What is the difference between mainland, free zone, and offshore company setup in the UAE?

Mainland companies allow local and international business operations with the ability to trade anywhere in the UAE, while free zone companies offer tax benefits, full foreign ownership, and sector-specific advantages within designated zones. Offshore entities are created mainly for international trade and asset protection, offering privacy and limited liability without physical presence requirements in the UAE.

How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai or the UAE?

The timeframe depends on the business activity and jurisdiction selected, but with complete documentation and the right approvals, a UAE company can typically be set up within 5 to 10 working days. Capitals28 accelerates the process by handling trade name reservation, approvals, legal drafting, and government coordination on your behalf.

Do I need a local sponsor to open a business in the UAE mainland?

In many business activities, 100% foreign ownership is now allowed on the mainland, but certain regulated sectors may still require a local partner or service agent. Capitals28 reviews your business model and assists in selecting the structure that offers the highest control, profitability, and legal compliance.

Is it possible to obtain a UAE residency visa through company formation?

Yes. Once your company is established, you may apply for residency visas for yourself, your employees, and dependent family members. The number of visas depends on company type, office space, and jurisdiction, and our team manages all the stages up to Emirates ID issuance and medical screening.

What documents are required to establish a company in the UAE?

Typically, a passport copy, business activity description, trade name options, and proof of address are required, although some free zones may ask for additional financial or professional documents. Capitals28 prepares, verifies, translates, and submits all required documents, ensuring full compliance with UAE regulations.

Can I run my UAE company remotely without living in the country?

Yes, many free zones and even mainland structures allow remote business management, although having UAE residency may provide additional benefits such as access to banking, visa sponsorship, and regular business travel. Our team helps entrepreneurs choose between physical, virtual, and flexible office options depending on lifestyle and expansion plans.

Why should I choose Capitals28 to set up my UAE business?

Capitals28 combines legal expertise, regulatory knowledge, and on-ground government coordination to deliver a seamless business setup experience. Instead of dealing with multiple agencies, you receive one point of contact for licensing, document clearing, MOA drafting, visa processing, and compliance, allowing you to focus fully on launching and growing your business.