Dubai remains one of the world’s most attractive hubs for entrepreneurs and investors. With 100% foreign ownership, strong infrastructure, and favourable tax benefits, it’s no surprise that thousands of new businesses are launched here every year.
Whether you’re a first-time founder or an established business looking to expand into the UAE, our guide breaks down everything you need to know, step by step. From choosing your business activity to securing your visa, C2Z Advisory ensures a fast, compliant, and cost-effective setup tailored to your goals.
Why set up a business in Dubai, UAE?
1. 100% foreign ownership
Since 2021, foreign investors have been able to wholly own mainland companies in most sectors, with no local sponsor requirement. This reform allows entrepreneurs complete control over profits, decision-making, and operations. Sectors such as technology, media, consulting, and e-commerce are open to full foreign ownership.
2. Attractive tax regime
Dubai has no personal income tax and a competitive 9% corporate tax, applicable only if profits exceed AED 375,000 annually. Many free zones offer tax holidays up to 50 years, making Dubai highly cost-efficient for business operations.
3. Economic growth and global access
Dubai’s economy is projected to grow 3.9% in 2024 and 6.2% in 2025, driven by trade, tourism, real estate, and digital transformation. Its strategic location bridges Asia, Africa, and Europe, making it ideal for international business.
4. Quality of life that attracts talent
With top-tier healthcare, luxury living, safety, and a multicultural lifestyle, Dubai attracts highly skilled professionals from around the world, providing businesses with access to a dynamic, global talent pool.
5. Exceptional infrastructure
Dubai is home to one of the world’s busiest airports and ports, as well as widespread 5G internet and digital government services. This infrastructure supports businesses across various sectors, including logistics, fintech, media, and more.
6. Ease of doing business
The UAE ranks 16th globally in the 2024 Ease of Doing Business Index. Setting up a company can take as little as 3–5 days with the proper guidance and paperwork, making it a fast-track location for growth.
7 Simple steps to start your business in Dubai
C2Z Advisory helps you navigate every step of the process. Here’s how it works:
1. Choose your business activity
Start by selecting a business activity aligned with Dubai’s economic strengths—whether that’s consultancy, e-commerce, media, logistics, or tech. Market research is key here, and C2Z helps validate your idea against current trends.
2. Select a location: Mainland vs Free Zone
Decide whether you want to operate in:
Mainland Dubai: Ideal for retail, local service, and B2C businesses
Free Zones: Such as DMCC, DIC, or Dubai South which are great for international trade, tech firms, and startups
Offshore: Suitable for holding companies or international structuring
Each has pros and cons, and we help you match location with your business objectives.
3. Choose a company name
Names must comply with UAE naming regulations (no offensive terms, political or religious references). You’ll submit 2–3 options for approval through the DED or relevant free zone authority. C2Z Advisory assists with due diligence and pre-approval checks.
4. Register your business
We handle documentation, government liaison, and registration formalities for you, whether in the mainland or the free zone. Most business registrations are completed within 1–3 working days when all documents are ready.
5. Apply for a business license
Depending on your activity, you’ll need a Commercial, Professional, or Industrial license. Licensing costs vary based on jurisdiction and business scope, but most startups spend between AED 8,000 and AED 15,000 annually. We ensure your licensing is fast and compliant.
6. Open a corporate bank account
Once licensed, we assist in opening a business account with leading UAE banks, such as Emirates NBD, Mashreq, or RAKBANK. You’ll need your license, passport, and incorporation documents. C2Z shortlists banks based on your profile and helps prepare the application to improve approval success.
7. Apply for UAE residence visa
After setup, we assist you in securing your UAE visa under your new company, whether as an investor or employee. Visas typically take 5–10 working days and include medical testing, Emirates ID, and stamping. You can also sponsor dependents or hire staff.
Why work with C2Z Advisory?
Setting up a business in Dubai involves more than just paperwork. You need local insight, licensing expertise, and compliance support.
At C2Z Advisory, we:
- Provide tailored setup plans based on your goals and budget.
- Ensure regulatory compliance throughout the entire process.
- Liaise with all relevant authorities on your behalf.
- Offer post-setup services including accounting, VAT, UBO, and ESR compliance.
- Help you scale with visa planning, office setup, and strategic introductions.
Ready to launch in Dubai?
Dubai offers unmatched opportunities, but the proper setup makes all the difference. Whether you’re building a consultancy, e-commerce venture, tech startup, or international holding company, C2Z Advisory is your trusted partner from concept to launch.
Let’s make your Dubai business journey seamless. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.
