Cost of Setting Up a Company in Dubai: Mainland vs Free Zone
Quick answer: Company registration in Dubai costs roughly AED 24,000 (about €6,000) for a Free Zone setup and AED 32,000 (about €8,000) for a Mainland setup in the first year, covering trade license, registration, and one visa.
Annual renewal typically runs AED 17,500–25,000 depending on your structure. Your exact cost depends on jurisdiction, number of visas, business activity, and office type.
The cost of setting up a company in Dubai, or anywhere in the UAE, depends on your business structure, license type, and visa requirements.
Below, packages typically include a trade license, company registration, an official business address (flexi-desk or virtual office), and eligibility for a UAE residence visa.
However, the final cost varies based on your specific business model.
What Affects Your Setup Cost?
The cost of setting up a company in Dubai isn’t fixed; it depends on several factors you should define before you begin:
2. Number of Visas
Investor and employee visas increase overall costs.
3. Business Activity
Some activities require additional government approvals or special permits.
4. Office Requirement
You can choose between a flexi-desk, virtual office, or physical office space depending on your operational needs.
Not sure which factors apply to your business? Get a free, personalized cost breakdown from our team.
Get My Free Breakdown →Overview
Cost of Free Zone Company
For freelancers and international founders, the cost of setting up a company in Dubai through a Free Zone is often the more budget-friendly route.
Perfect for online startups, freelancers, and cross-border trading businesses, this option supports companies that run remotely without the need for a physical presence in the mainland market.
Registration Fee Details
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Company License | 12,125 |
| Shared/Flexi Desk | 375 |
| Immigration Card | 2,000 |
| Visa Quota Fee | 1,850 |
| Employee Visa | 3,500 |
| Medical | 750 |
| Emirates ID with Biometrics | 388 |
| Service Fee | 3,000 |
Total: AED 23,988 (approx. €6,000)
Compliance review typically takes 2–7 days and does not carry a separate fee.
Annual License Renewal Fee
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Company License | 14,500 |
| Immigration Card | 2,000 |
| Service Fee | 1,000 |
Total: AED 17,500 (approx. €4,375)
Overview
Cost of Mainland Company
The cost of setting up a company in Dubai on the Mainland is typically higher, but it removes trading restrictions entirely.
Ideal for businesses targeting the UAE domestic market and planning to open a shop, office, or commercial facility in Dubai, this option ensures compliance through a required Mainland trade license.
Registration Fee Details
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Name & Initial Approval | 1,000 |
| Company License | 12,930 |
| MOA Signing | 450 |
| Establishment & Labor Card | 2,000 |
| Medical | 750 |
| Emirates ID with Biometrics | 388 |
| Manager Visa | 3,750 |
| Virtual Office (Ejari) | 6,000 |
| Service Fee | 5,000 |
Total: AED 32,268 (approx. €8,067)
Annual License Renewal Fee
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Company License | 14,030 |
| Establishment Card | 850 |
| Labour Card | 850 |
| Virtual Office (Ejari) | 8,000 |
| Service Fee | 1,000 |
Total: AED 24,730 (approx. €6,183)
Figures above are estimates for standard packages as of 2026 and can vary by activity, free zone authority, and visa count. All euro conversions are approximate. Confirm exact fees on the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism website or with our team before budgeting.
Free Zone vs Mainland – Quick Comparison
Every business is different. A personalized cost breakdown ensures you choose the most efficient and compliant structure.
Free Zone
- 100% foreign ownership
- Cost-effective for startups
- Ideal for service-based, online, and trading businesses
- Physical office required only within the Free Zone
Mainland
- 100% foreign ownership
- Direct access to the UAE local market
- Suitable for retail, contracting, government projects, and commercial activities
- No geographic trade restrictions
- Office required in Dubai
Ready to register your company in Dubai? Chat with our team for an exact quote based on your business activity.
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