How Much Does It Cost to Set Up a Company in Dubai?

By Anna Duncan

Dubai is one of the most popular and business-friendly destinations in the world. It is home to numerous multinational companies and businesses across various industries.

Setting up a company in Dubai can be a lucrative decision for entrepreneurs looking to expand their business operations or start a new venture. However, many aspiring entrepreneurs are often deterred by the cost of setting up a company in Dubai. In this article, we will explore the cost of setting up a company in Dubai and the various factors that influence it.

Types of Companies in Dubai

Before we dive into the cost of setting up a company in Dubai, it’s essential to understand the different types of companies that you can establish in Dubai. The two most common types are:

  • Free Zone Company: A Free Zone Company is a company that operates within a designated free zone area. These areas are designed to attract foreign investment by offering 100% ownership to foreign nationals, tax exemptions, and customs duty benefits.
  • Mainland Company: A Mainland Company is a company that operates outside the designated free zones and requires local sponsorship.

Cost of Setting Up a Free Zone Company

Setting up a Free Zone Company in Dubai involves several costs such as licensing fees, registration fees, visa fees, and office space rental expenses. The total cost may vary depending on your business activity and location. Here’s an estimate of some costs involved:

  • Licensing Fees: Licensing fees for Free Zone Companies range from AED 9,000 to AED 30,000 per annum depending on your business activity.
  • Registration Fees: Registration fees typically range from AED 10,000 to AED 15,000.
  • Visa Fees: Visa fees for employees start from AED 3,500 per person and can go up depending on the visa type and duration.
  • Office Space Rental Expenses: Office space rental expenses vary depending on the location and type of office space. However, you can expect to spend anywhere between AED 20,000 to AED 50,000 per annum.

Cost of Setting Up a Mainland Company

Setting up a Mainland Company in Dubai involves additional costs such as local sponsorship fees and other related expenses. Here’s an estimate of some costs involved:

  • Licensing Fees: Licensing fees for Mainland Companies depend on your business activity and can range from AED 10,000 to AED 50,000 per annum.
  • Sponsorship Fees: Local sponsorship fees for a Mainland Company can cost anywhere between AED 10,000 to AED 30,000 annually. However, you can expect to spend anywhere between AED 30,000 to AED 70,000 per annum.

The Bottom Line

Setting up a company in Dubai involves various costs that you need to consider before making any investment decisions. While the cost of setting up a company in Dubai may seem high compared to other countries in the region, it’s essential to note that Dubai offers several benefits such as tax exemptions and access to a large consumer market.

The cost of setting up a company in Dubai may vary depending on your business activity, location, and type of company. It’s crucial to do your research and seek professional advice before making any investment decisions in Dubai.