Business Setup in Dubai – Your Gateway to Global Success
Dubai is one of the world’s most dynamic and business-friendly cities, consistently attracting entrepreneurs, startups, and global investors. With its strong economy, tax-free environment, and access to international markets, Business Setup in Dubai has become a top choice for those seeking growth, innovation, and international opportunities.
Establishing a company here not only provides access to modern infrastructure and advanced facilities but also connects you to strategic trade routes that bridge Asia, Europe, and Africa. Whether you are an investor, a startup founder, or a multinational corporation, choosing Business Setup in Dubai ensures global exposure and long-term success.
For investors, the process involves selecting the right business activity, obtaining the correct trade license, and complying with UAE laws. The Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) and Invest in Dubai portals provide official guidance on legal requirements, trade licenses, and business registration.
With G12 as your trusted partner, Business Setup in Dubai becomes smooth, cost-effective, and transparent. Our team handles everything—from trade license applications to visas and final approvals—ensuring full compliance with Dubai regulations.
Whether you want a mainland company for direct UAE market access or a free zone setup for tax benefits, G12 guides you at every step. Over the years, we have helped thousands of entrepreneurs successfully complete their Business Setup in Dubai, turning ideas into profitable ventures.
According to the UAE Government Portal (u.ae), Dubai continues to see record growth, with over 70,500 new businesses registered in 2024 alone, showing a steady 3% increase year-over-year. This surge highlights the emirate’s supportive policies and investor-friendly ecosystem.
If you are ready to expand globally, now is the best time to begin your Business Setup in Dubai with G12. Together, we will simplify the process, ensure compliance, and help you unlock Dubai’s limitless opportunities.
Why Set Up a Business in Dubai?
Dubai is a magnet for global entrepreneurs and continues to strengthen its position as one of the world’s most business-friendly cities. In 2024 alone, more than 70,500 new businesses were registered, marking a steady 3% year-over-year growth. This surge reflects Dubai’s dynamic economy, supportive government policies, and its reputation as a safe, innovation-driven hub for investment.
A large portion of this growth comes from foreign investors, who are increasingly choosing Dubai as their base of operations. Several reforms have made it easier and more profitable for international entrepreneurs to set up here. Investors now benefit from advantages such as:
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100% foreign ownership across most sectors.
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Tax-free income and competitive operating costs.
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Access to world-class infrastructure and logistics networks.
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Ease of doing business with simplified licensing and registration processes.
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Strategic location connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa through global trade routes.
These factors have positioned Dubai as a powerhouse for innovation, trade, and entrepreneurship—attracting not only established corporations but also ambitious startups looking to scale rapidly.
How Much Does It Cost to Start a Business in Dubai?
The cost depends on several factors including:
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Free zone vs mainland setup
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Office space requirements
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Type of license (commercial, professional, industrial)
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Number of visas
Estimated starting costs (2025):
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Free Zone Setup: AED 12,500 to AED 30,000+
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Mainland Company Setup: AED 15,000 to AED 35,000+
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Visa Costs: AED 3,500 to AED 7,000 per visa
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Office Space (Ejari or Flexi Desk): AED 10,000+
G12 offers customized packages that cover licensing, visas, legal structuring, and banking – so you know exactly what to expect.
Eight Steps to Start a Business in Dubai
1. Choose Your Business Activity
Dubai supports over 2,000 licensed business activities, including:
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Tech & IT (Dubai Silicon Oasis)
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Media & Advertising (Dubai Media City)
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Trading (DMCC)
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Design & Fashion (Dubai Design District)
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Logistics (DAFZA)
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E-Commerce (Dubai CommerCity)
Each activity has specific requirements, so expert guidance is crucial.
2. Select the Right Legal Structure
Mainland Options (Licensed by DET):
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LLC (Limited Liability Company) – now available with 100% foreign ownership
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Sole Proprietorship – ideal for freelancers/consultants
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Civil Company – for professionals (doctors, engineers)
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Branch of a Foreign Company
Free Zone Options:
Some industries, such as oil, defense, and banking, still require Emirati partners for compliance. For smoother Business setup in Dubai, G12 provides nominee shareholder services that ensure legal compliance while allowing you to maintain full operational control of your company.
3. Reserve Your Company Name
Naming rules include:
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No offensive or religious terms
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Must reflect licensed business activity
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If using a personal name, include full legal name (no initials)
G12 handles this step to ensure your name is available and compliant.
4. Register Your Business
Key documents:
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Business activity form
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Shareholders’ passport copies
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Business plan (in some zones)
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MoA and tenancy contract (for mainland)
Mainland setups are registered with the Department of Economy & Tourism (DET). Free zone entities are licensed by their respective authorities.
5. Secure Office Space
Both mainland and free zone businesses require a physical address. Options include:
G12 helps you choose the right workspace that fits your visa quota and licensing needs.
6. Pay Government Fees and Obtain Your License
Business license fees include:
As of late 2023, businesses receive a Dubai Unified License (DUL) – streamlining interactions with government entities.
7. Open a Corporate Bank Account
G12 assists with opening accounts in leading banks like:
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Local Banks: Emirates NBD, RAKBANK, ADCB, Wio
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International Banks: HSBC, Barclays, Citibank
Documents typically required:
Most traditional banks require a physical presence for identity verification.
8. Apply for Visas
Visa options include:
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Investor/Partner Visa: valid for 2–3 years
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Golden Visa (10-Year Residency): for investors with AED 500,000+ capital
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Employment & Family Visas
G12 manages:
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Entry permits
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Medical fitness tests
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Emirates ID registration
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Visa stamping
Free zones typically offer visa quotas based on your package (1, 3, 5, or more). Mainland visa quotas are linked to office size.
Business Etiquette in Dubai: What You Should Know
DO:
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Dress professionally – suits for men, modest attire for women
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Build relationships before discussing deals
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Use formal greetings and your right hand when shaking hands
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Show respect to all individuals in meetings
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Be patient – business decisions take time
DON’T:
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Brag or use clichés like “No.1 in Dubai”
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Rush into business discussions
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Complain about the heat or culture
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Skip face-to-face networking—it’s essential
Tip: Carry bilingual business cards (Arabic & English) at networking events.
Why Choose G12?
With over a decade of experience in UAE business formation, G12 is your trusted partner for complete company setup solutions, including:
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Customized business structure selection
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Licensing and registration
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Corporate bank account setup
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PRO services (visas, Emirates ID, medicals)
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VAT registration and compliance
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Ongoing accounting, payroll, and reporting
We eliminate delays, reduce risk, and handle everything so you can focus on growing your business.
FAQs – Business Setup in Dubai
Q: Can I set up a company as a non-resident?
Yes. You can begin remotely and complete formalities upon arrival with G12’s support.
Q: Do I need employees to maintain my license?
Not always. Free zone freelancers and sole proprietors can operate solo.
Q: Can I own multiple businesses in Dubai?
Yes. You can register multiple licenses or operate under a holding company.
Q: Do I need to be present to open a bank account?
For most banks, yes—but G12 arranges pre-approvals and minimizes your time in Dubai.
Q: Are Emiratization rules applicable to my business?
Mainland companies with 50+ staff must hire a percentage of UAE nationals. Free zone companies are exempt.
Q: How many employees can I sponsor in a free zone?
Visa quotas depend on office space and licensing tier. G12 helps you upgrade when needed.
Ready to Launch Your Business in Dubai?
Start your journey with G12’s Expert Company Formation Services – trusted by entrepreneurs across the globe.
Book a free consultation now and discover how easy it can be to turn your vision into a thriving business in Dubai.