The GCC hosts over 80 free zones across six countries. A free zone permits 100% foreign ownership, applies its own licensing rules, and often offers corporate tax incentives.
The cheapest UAE business licence in 2026 costs AED 4,888 at Ajman NuVenture. Among Dubai free zones, Meydan starts at AED 12,500 and IFZA at AED 12,900.
A UAE offshore company is registered in JAFZA Offshore, RAK ICC, or Ajman Offshore for international business, asset holding, and IP structures. 0% tax on international income.
A UAE free zone company can be incorporated within 5 to 10 working days. A mainland company takes 2 to 4 weeks. An offshore company takes 5 to 7 working days.
The UAE offers three main company structures: LLC, sole establishment, and branch office. An LLC is the default for most foreign-owned businesses with limited liability.
No. Since the 2021 reform, most UAE mainland businesses no longer require a local sponsor or a 51% UAE national partner. The Local Service Agent requirement has also been removed in most activities.
The UAE’s Commercial Companies Law reform of 2021, extended by Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2025, allows foreign founders to hold 100% of most mainland businesses without a local sponsor.
The UAE issues four core mainland trade licence categories — commercial, professional, industrial, and tourism — plus parallel free zone tracks for e-commerce, freelance, and holding. The right type depends on what your business actually does.
UAE business licence costs in 2026 range from AED 4,888 for the cheapest free zone to AED 900,000+ for a regulated DIFC financial firm. Most foreign founders spend AED 18,500 to AED 50,000 in year one.
UAE mainland licences let you trade directly with UAE customers at 9% corporate tax. UAE free zones offer 0% on qualifying income plus 100% foreign ownership, conditional on meeting strict 2026 QFZP rules.
