How to Set Up a Company in the UAE as a Foreigner (2026 Guide)

Setting up a UAE company as a foreigner is simpler than most people expect — and more expensive than the brochures suggest. Here's the complete process, without the sales pitch.

What you'll need before you start: Valid passport (6+ months validity), passport-size photos, proof of address, business plan (required by some zones and banks), initial capital (varies by zone), and a decision on free zone vs mainland.

Step 1: Choose your structure. Free zone vs mainland is the first fork. If you're running a digital business, consulting practice, or e-commerce operation, a free zone is almost always the right choice.

Step 2: Select your free zone. Your zone choice affects banking success, visa allocation, office requirements, and annual cost. Key criteria: business activities, nationality, visa needs, and office requirements.

Step 3: Reserve your company name. Most zones let you check and reserve online. Avoid names with "UAE", "Dubai", "Emirates", "Royal", or "National".

Step 4: Submit your application. Documents: application form, passport copies, photos, proof of address, business activity selection. Some zones accept this fully online.

Step 5: Pay fees and receive your licence. After review, you'll receive a payment invoice. Licence issued within 24-48 hours of payment.

Step 6: Apply for establishment card. Required before sponsoring employee visas. Cost: AED 1,000-2,000.

Step 7: Apply for investor visa. Entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID biometrics, visa stamping. Timeline: 2-4 weeks.

Step 8: Open your bank account. The hardest step. Wio Bank and Mashreq Neo are fastest for new companies. Traditional banks take 4-8 weeks.

Total cost: AED 17,000-39,000 for a solo founder. Total timeline: 5-10 weeks with digital bank, 8-16 weeks with traditional bank.