Mainland
Typically chosen by businesses that want to trade across the UAE market or work with local clients.
Business setup
Business setup in the UAE
Business setup in the UAE usually starts with one choice: mainland, free zone or offshore. This page explains the differences in general terms and links to a guide for each option. We confirm what applies to you in a consultation.
Mainland, free zone or offshore
Each structure suits different plans. These descriptions are general and rules differ by authority and by activity.
Free zone
Typically chosen by businesses whose activity suits a specific free zone.
Offshore
Typically used for holding and asset-structuring purposes rather than local trading.
Trade licence
Most structures involve a licence that states what your company may do. Read about licence types, documents and renewals.
Questions that shape your choice
Five questions usually narrow the options. Where will your customers be? What exact activity will the company carry out? Do you need a physical office? Who will own the company? Do the owners and staff need UAE residence visas?
If you do not have all the answers yet, that is fine. Describe your plans in a consultation and we will explain which questions matter most for your case.
What the process involves
The order and requirements vary by authority and activity. A typical route looks like this.
Step 1: Define the activity and structure
Decide what the company will do, where it will trade and who will own it.Step 2: Choose the licensing authority
Mainland, free zone and offshore companies are licensed or registered by different bodies, each with its own rules.Step 3: Prepare documents and applications
Owners usually provide identity documents and details of the proposed company. Some activities need extra approvals.Step 4: Receive the licence and complete registrations
After approval, other registrations may be needed, such as for tax or for staff visas.
Closing a company
What happens after setup
Getting the licence is the start. Businesses commonly also need the following, depending on their situation.
Accounting and tax overview
Bookkeeping, VAT, corporate tax and audit topics in one place.
Corporate support overview
PRO, visas, Golden Visa and trademark support after setup.
Residency and investor visas
Visas for owners, employees and family members.
Bookkeeping and accounting
Records that support tax and audit.
How we work with you
We confirm the scope of our support with you before work starts, including which tasks you handle and which tasks we handle.
The Nexoviz team handles this work itself. Approvals, fees and decisions stay with the relevant UAE authority.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better: mainland, free zone or offshore?
None is better in every case. The right choice depends on your activity, your customers, your ownership plans and your budget. We explain the trade-offs for your situation in a consultation.
Do I need a trade licence?
Businesses that operate in the UAE typically need a licence or registration that matches their activity. The type depends on the structure and the authority. See our trade licence page for the general types.
Can you tell me how long setup will take?
Timelines depend on the authority, the activity and how quickly documents are ready, so we do not quote fixed timelines on this website. Ask us in a consultation and describe your plans.
What does company setup cost?
Cost depends on the structure, the licence, the activity and the support you need. We do not publish fixed fees here. Tell us what you plan and we will discuss it with you.
Can I change from one structure to another later?
Sometimes, but it depends on the authorities involved and on your company's situation. It is usually easier to choose carefully at the start, so discuss your long-term plans with us.
Not sure which option fits?
Tell us what your business will do and where your customers are.
Information on this page is general and may change. Requirements are set by the relevant UAE authorities. Contact us for advice on your situation.
This is general information and not legal or tax advice.
Nexoviz is an independent company and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of any government authority unless stated.