How much does it cost to set up a business in Dubai? (2026)
A clear, honest breakdown of what drives your setup cost — and how to get an exact quote.
There is no single price for setting up a company in Dubai — your cost depends on the jurisdiction (mainland, free zone or offshore), your activity, the number of visas you need and your office choice. Below is an honest, indicative guide. For a figure tailored to your plan, use our cost estimator or request a free quote.
What makes up the cost
- Trade licence — the core annual licence from the free zone or the Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) for mainland.
- Government & registration fees — e.g. a DET trade-name reservation is around AED 620, and a Ministry of Economy foreign-branch initial approval is AED 3,500 (official figures, subject to change).
- Residence visas — each visa adds government, medical, Emirates ID and stamping fees.
- Office — a flexi-desk or virtual option costs far less than a physical Ejari office, and your office can affect your visa quota.
- External approvals — some activities (food, healthcare, education, construction) need extra regulator approvals.
Indicative ranges
As a rough guide only (always confirm with a quote): cost-effective free-zone packages typically start in the low-to-mid five figures in AED for a one-visa setup, while mainland and premium free zones sit higher, and regulated activities add approval costs. These are indicative figures that change — get an exact quote before you budget.
| Route | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Free zone | International trade, services, startups | 100% ownership; flexi-desk options; compare zones |
| Mainland | Selling to the local UAE market | Trade UAE-wide; 100% ownership on most activities |
| Offshore | Holding & international trade | No UAE trading; no residence visas |
Tax to budget for
UAE Corporate Tax is 0% on taxable income up to AED 375,000 and 9% above (register within 3 months of incorporation), and VAT is 5% once taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000. We keep you compliant from day one — see accounting & tax.
Get your exact number
Use the cost estimator for an indicative range, then message us on WhatsApp for a precise, all-in quote with no hidden fees.
Book a free 15-minute consultation
Talk to a local setup advisor — a clear plan, transparent costs, and no obligation.