Exploring business in UAE or looking for expansion? If yes, you are reading at the right place. In this blog we will guide how to open a company in Dubai, UAE.Choosing Dubai to open a company is the great choice because UAE is the best place to start any business. In 2025, the country is home to more than 1.3 million registered companies, reflecting its strong economy and business-friendly environment.
The UAE offers excellent infrastructure, low tax benefits, strategic global connectivity, and clear regulations that make business setup simple and efficient. Whether you choose the mainland, a free zone, or an offshore setup, the UAE provides multiple locations and flexible options to suit different business needs. With the right guidance, starting a company in the UAE can be quick and easy process.
Jurisdictions for Business Setup in UAE
Opening a company in Dubai is the great choice as it offers many benefits and you have multiple location options in Dubai to start a business. The first step is selecting the right jurisdiction.Below are the jurisdictions where you can operate a business:
Mainland.
Mainland company formation in Dubai allows you to operate your business anywhere in UAE. You can work directly with local customers and government entities. Dubai mainland business setup is an ideal choice for companies that want full access to the UAE market without restrictions. You need approvals from the DET to operate legally.
Free Zone.
A free zone business setup is a designated area where you can operate your business. A business setup in Dubai free zone required free zone authority approvals to operate legally. You can also work flexibly by choosing co-working spaces in Dubai , RAKEZ, Ajman, and IFZA are some popular free zones to start a business in Dubai.
Offshore.
Offshore companies are mainly used for asset holding, tax planning, and international trading. An offshore company fromation in UAE is suitable for businesses operating in other countries while using the UAE as a business base. Offshore registration can be done under any UAE jurisdiction, subject to compliance requirements.
At Dhanguard, we will help you in the entire business setup process in UAE. We have business consultants who will guide you and provide cost estimation.
If you are someone who has a business in your home city or is looking for expansion, we will guide you on how to open a branch office in Dubai.
How to Open a Company in Dubai, UAE.
To understand how to open a company in Dubai, follow the steps mentioned below.
Step 1: Select Business Activity.
Choose a business based on your interest. In Dubai, there are many business options, including trading, e-commerce services, IT companies, and others. Your business activity will determine which approvals you need from the UAE authority.
Step 2: Choose Jurisdiction.
Select your business location based on your business activity. If you want a flexible business setup, you can choose a free zone, where you can operate at cost-effective prices and use flexible co-working spaces in Dubai with approvals from the free zone authority. If you choose the mainland, you will need DET approvals and other permissions based on your business activity.
Step 3: Trade Name Selection.
For the trade license in the UAE, you need to choose a unique name that follows UAE naming guidelines. Make sure your name does not include any offensive words or any existing business name. After selection, submit it to the authority for approval so no one else can register the same name.
Step 4: Document Submission.
Submit required documents for the smooth process. The documents include applications, business details, passport copies. Make sure your documents and application fill correctly so you don't face any issues in approval.
Step 5: Approvals.
After all processes are completed, you need government approvals from UAE authorities to review your application and document process. If everything is in the correct manner, they will grant approval. This confirms that the government has no issues with your business and allows you to operate the business legally.
Step 6: License Issuance.
Once all approvals and payments are completed, your UAE trade license will be issued digitally. You can download it online and start your business legally. With your trade licence, you can also proceed to apply for residence visas and open a business bank account in UAE.
Documents Needed to Open a Company in Dubai.
To operate your business legally in UAE you need to submit documents to get approvals. Below is the list of documents:
- Passport Copy: You need to submit a valid passport with a validity of six months.
- Photograph: Submit your passport-size photograph. Make sure your photo has a white background and clear visibility.
- Visa Copy (If Available): Submit your UAE visit visa or tourist visa.
- Business Details: You need to submit your business details and make sure all details are mentioned correctly. The authority will issue the license accordingly.
- Shareholder Details: Provide the details of shareholders with complete information.
- Office Tenancy Contract: The contract is mainly required for mainland companies in the UAE.
Cost Required to Open a Company in Dubai, UAE.
The cost of starting a business in UAE depends on your business activity. Business setup packages starts from AED 5,565*.Below are the services you need for company formation
- Trade license.
- Visa cost.
- Business activity.
- Office space.
- Bank account opening and other services.
We will assist you in complete cost estimation and also guide you in business setup, how to open a company in Dubai, and where to invest the cost.
Conclusion.
Open a company in Dubai, UAE, is a smart choice for entrepreneurs looking to expand or start a new business. With options like mainland, free zone, and offshore setups, you can select the structure that best suits your business goals. Dhanguard will help you understand each step properly. Whether it’s registering a new company or opening a branch office, careful planning and the right guidance will ensure you operate legally and successfully in the UAE market.
For more information, you can visit us www.dhanguard.com or call us at +971501787585, and we will clear all your doubts related to how to open a business in Dubai.
DhanGuard: All-in-One Solution for Business Setup in Dubai, UAE
DhanGuard is your ultimate one-stop solution for all your business needs. Whether you’re planning to set up a new company or expand your existing business in the UAE, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive range of services. From Business Setup in UAE and Company Formation in Dubai to managing your financial and legal compliance, we provide everything you need under one roof.
Our services include:
- Company Formation in UAE and Dubai
- Opening a Business Bank Account in UAE and Dubai with a 99% success rate
- VAT & Corporate Tax Compliance
- Accounting, Bookkeeping, and Auditing Services
- Trade License Renewal
- Golden Visa Assistance
Let DhanGuard make your journey of Business Setup in Dubai seamless and hassle-free!
