What it really costs to set up a company in Dubai

Advertised "company setup from" prices usually cover only the first licence. The real cost of a Dubai company depends on your jurisdiction, your activity, how many visas you need and what you must do every year to stay compliant. Here is what goes into the total.

One-off costs

• Trade licence and registration fees set by the free zone or the emirate, which vary by activity and package.
• Name reservation and initial approvals.
• Office or desk. From a flexi-desk in a free zone to a full office on the mainland.
• Establishment card and immigration file for the company.
• Investor and employee visas. Each visa involves entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID and visa stamping.
• Bank account onboarding. No fee from most banks, but time and a well-prepared file.

Annual costs

• Licence renewal and office or desk renewal.
• Visa renewals when they fall due.
• Accounting and bookkeeping. Every company must keep proper records.
• Corporate tax return every year, even if no tax is due.
• VAT returns if registered.
• Audit where required by your free zone, your bank or the corporate tax rules.
• Economic substance, UBO and AML obligations that apply to your activity.

What drives the cost

The biggest variables are the number of visas, the type of office, whether your activity needs special approvals, and whether you need audited accounts. A one-person consulting company in a free zone and a trading company with staff on the mainland can differ several times over.

How we quote

We quote after a short conversation about your activity, team and plans, so the number covers the full first year, not just the licence. See company setup and PRO services or contact us.

This page gives general information as at the date shown and is not advice for your specific situation. Rules in other countries are summarised for orientation; your home-country position should be confirmed before you act.