No, a physical visit is not mandatory. The entire company formation process for both Mainland and Free Zone entities can be completed remotely through authorized agents and digital government platforms.

Entrepreneurs choose the UAE for its strategic global location, tax-efficient environment (including 0% corporate and personal income tax for many businesses), world-class infrastructure, political stability, and streamlined, fast-track business setup processes.

Costs vary based on the jurisdiction (Mainland or Free Zone) and license type. A basic Free Zone package can start from AED 5,555, while Mainland company setup costs are typically higher. Ongoing costs include license renewal, office space (e.g., Flexi-Desk), and visa fees.

The timeline can be very quick. Some Free Zones can issue a license within a few days, while a Mainland setup typically takes 1-3 weeks, depending on the business activity and required approvals.

Generally, you will need:

Passport copies of all shareholders and the proposed manager.

Proof of address (e.g., a utility bill).

A business plan (for some activities and Free Zones).

A Flexi Desk is a cost-effective and flexible workspace solution offered in Free Zones. It provides your company with a physical address for licensing purposes and grants you access to a shared office facility and meeting rooms on an as-needed basis, without the cost of a private office.

Ejari is a mandatory online system in Dubai for Mainland companies that officially registers tenancy contracts. It is a crucial requirement for completing processes like applying for residency visas and connecting utilities for your business.

Yes, you can hire employees locally and internationally. As a registered entity, you can sponsor your employees' visas, allowing them to live and work in the UAE.

You can apply for a corporate bank account by submitting your company's trade license, incorporation documents, shareholder and signatory passports, and a business plan. The process and requirements vary between banks.

The UAE introduced a Federal Corporate Tax in 2023. A 0% rate applies to taxable income up to AED 375,000, and a 9% rate applies to taxable income above this threshold. Qualifying Free Zone companies can benefit from a 0% Corporate Tax rate on qualifying income.

If your company's taxable supplies and imports exceed AED 375,000 per annum, you are required to register for VAT with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) and obtain a VAT number. The standard VAT rate in the UAE is 5%