Business Setup Services UAE
Government authorityEconomic departments / Free zone authorities / ICP / MOHRE
Estimated timelineSimple setups often complete within days to a few weeks
Starting a company in the UAE is fast — when someone has done it before. The real decisions are jurisdiction (mainland vs free zone), activity selection, and visa planning; the rest is correct paperwork in the correct order. We guide the decision, then process the setup end to end.
Official source: Always confirm the latest requirements on the official website: u.ae.
Who needs this service
- First-time founders and freelancers formalising their work
- Foreign entrepreneurs entering the UAE market
- Existing owners adding a new entity or activity
- Investors needing a company for their investor visa
Documents usually required
- Passport copies of owners/partners
- Proposed trade names (2–3 options)
- Business activity description
- Local address/office details where required
- Existing visa or entry status of the owners
Step-by-step process
- Free consultation: activity, jurisdiction and cost comparison
- Trade name reservation and initial approval
- Licence documentation and issuance
- Establishment card and labour file
- Owner/partner visa and Emirates ID
- Bank account guidance
Government authority involved
The economic department of the chosen emirate (mainland) or the free zone authority, then ICP and MOHRE for the company files and visas.
Estimated timeline
Straightforward free zone setups often complete within days; mainland setups commonly take one to a few weeks depending on approvals.
Common mistakes
- Choosing a jurisdiction before checking where your customers can legally be served
- Activity lists that miss what the business actually does
- Underestimating visa quota needs and paying for upgrades later
Related guides
- Mainland vs Free Zone Business Setup
- How to Start a Small Business in UAE
- Documents Required for UAE Company Formation
Pricing note: Service fees are confirmed after reviewing your case. Government fees are separate and paid to the authority.
Frequently asked questions
Mainland or free zone — which is better?
It depends on your activity, customers, and visa needs. Mainland suits trading with the local market; free zones offer streamlined setup and full ownership benefits for many activities. We compare both for your case.
What does company setup cost?
Costs vary widely by jurisdiction, activity, office requirement, and visa quota. We provide a transparent breakdown for your shortlist before you commit.
Can I own 100% of a mainland company?
Many activities allow full foreign ownership under current rules, while some still need specific arrangements. We confirm your activity's status.
How many visas can my company get?
Visa quotas depend on the jurisdiction, office/facility size, and activity. Free zones often bundle visa allocations with packages.
What comes after the licence?
Establishment card, labour file, owner/employee visas, and a corporate bank account — we guide the whole sequence.
Disclaimer: Bab Al Zahiah Typing Center is an independent professional service provider. We are not a government authority. Information on this website is provided for general guidance only and should be verified with the relevant UAE government authority before making decisions. Approval, rejection, timelines, fees, and requirements are controlled by the relevant authority.