Business Setup in the UAE: Own Your UAE Company 100%
We’ve helped 200+ businesses save 50M AED in taxes. From company formation to bank account opening, we handle everything so you can start trading immediately.
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Where Do You Want to Set Up Your Company in The UAE?
Choosing the right structure is critical for your business growth, tax efficiency, and compliance. Here’s a clear view of your options:
Mainland
100%
(no sponsor needed since 2021)
Anywhere in UAE
Physical office
9%
(with exemptions)
5-10 working days
Local B2B,
government contracts
Free Zone
100%
foreign ownership
Limited (depends on NOC)
Flexi-desk or virtual
0-9%
(activity dependent)
5-10 working days
International trade,
consulting
Offshore
100%
foreign ownership
No local trading
Virtual only
0%
5-10 working days
Holding companies,
asset protection
Financial
Free Zone
100%
foreign ownership
Limited
(Financial services only)
Physical office
(Strict substance rules)
0%
(Guaranteed exemptions)
3-4 weeks
Fintech, banking,
investment funds
Why 200+ Businesses Trust
GCG Structuring
For Business Setup in The UAE
Why 200+
Businesses Trust
GCG Structuring
For Business Setup in The UAE
Saved 100 hours of legal and navigated complex tax between US and Central Asia
Watch Charlies Regis share their experience and results
Charlie Regis
General Partner at HCX Capital
Expertise under one roof - managing multiple companies and complex structures - saving 100's of hours
Watch Philippe Germain share their experience and results
Philippe Germain
Entrepreneur
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. From First Call to Fully Operational: 3 Simple Steps
We simplify the setup process into three clear steps so you can focus on growing your business.
Strategy & Structure
- Free 30-minute consultation to understand your business goals
- Help you choose the right jurisdiction: Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore
- Preliminary tax review and solution call (Getting ready)
Legal & Licensing
- MOA/AOA drafting, including all Arabic documentation
-
License application and approval
- Visa processing begins, including Emirates ID application
Banking, Activation & Fully Operational
- Guaranteed business bank account opening
-
Final compliance setup
- Accounting system integration and quarterly reviews
6 Reasons Dubai is the #1 Business Hub for International Entrepreneurs
Tax advantages you can't ignore
- 0-9% corporate tax (vs 20-30% globally)
- 5% VAT (lowest in region)
- Zero personal income tax
- Full capital repatriation
- No dividend tax Real example: "A $500K profit company saves $105K annually vs Singapore (21% tax)"
100% ownership
- no strings attached
- No local sponsor required (free zones)
- Full control of decisions and profits
- Protect your IP and trade secrets
Strategic location = global access
- 8-hour flight to 2 billion people
- Access to Africa, Asia, Europe markets
- World-class logistics infrastructure
Residency visa perks
- Live and work in UAE indefinitely
- Sponsor family members
- Access to world-class healthcare and education
- Key-in-hand service: we accompany you to all appointments
- Personal tax benefits
Streamlined legal process
- Minimal bureaucracy vs other jurisdictions
- We handle all Arabic paperwork
- Direct liaison with 50+ free zones
- Fast approvals (5-7 days average)
Business-friendly ecosystem
- No currency restrictions
- Strong IP protection laws
- Access to government grants and incentives
- Thriving expat business community
We Set Up Companies in 50+ UAE Free Zones
We work with every major free zone to ensure your business is launched efficiently and in the right environment.
Trading, commodities, logistics.
E-commerce, consulting, low-cost setup.
Financial services, fintech, asset management.
International finance, fund management.
Manufacturing, industrial, cost-effective, e-commerce.
Media, events, hospitality.
End-to-End Support: We Handle Everything
Company Formation and Governance in The UAE
We take care of every step of forming your company in the UAE, from preparing legal documents to obtaining your license. Our team ensures all approvals are completed efficiently so you can focus on running your business without worrying about bureaucracy.
Guaranteed Banking Setup
Opening a business bank account in the UAE can be challenging. We manage the entire process, working directly with banks to secure your account quickly and smoothly. This gives you immediate access to banking services so your operations can start without delay.
Acounting, Tax Optimization and Compliance
We provide expert guidance on corporate tax, VAT registration, and ongoing compliance requirements. Our team helps you stay fully compliant, avoid fines, and implement strategies to maximize your tax efficiency.
Unique Advantage (Only At GCG)
Unlike other setup providers, we don’t just register your company and disappear. We offer ongoing support, including quarterly reviews, proactive compliance monitoring, and direct access to our team through WhatsApp. This ensures your business remains fully operational, compliant, and positioned for growth.
Common Questions About UAE Company Setup
How much does it cost to set up a business in Dubai?
Short answer: AED 5,000 – 35,000+ depending on free zone, business type, and office requirements.
Breakdown:
- License fees: AED 5,000 – 25,000
- Office/flexi-desk: AED 3,000 – 5,000/year and some times free
- Visa costs: AED 3,000 – 5,000 per person
- Our service fee: Company formation free for GCG One customers
Want exact pricing? Book a free consultation for a custom quote.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Dubai?
Yes. In free zones, you get 100% ownership with zero local sponsor requirements. On the mainland, 100% foreign ownership is now allowed for most business activities (since 2021 law change).
We help you choose the right structure for full ownership and maximum tax benefits.
How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?
Timeline:
- Free zone: 5-7 days
- Mainland: 3-5 days
- Offshore: 3-5 days
- What affects speed: Document preparation, bank account opening, visa processing
Our record: 10 days from first call to bank account (IFZA setup)
What's the difference between mainland and free zone?
Quick comparison:
Mainland:
- Trade anywhere in UAE
- Physical office required
- 9% corporate tax (with exemptions)
- Best for local B2B
Free Zone:
- 100% foreign ownership guaranteed
- Virtual office options
- 0-9% tax (activity dependent)
- Best for international trade Not sure? We analyze your business model and recommend the optimal structure.
Do I need a local sponsor?
No – if you set up in a free zone. Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor requirements.
Mainland: No longer required for most activities (2021 law change), but some restricted activities still need local partners.
We ensure you get full ownership and control.
Can you guarantee bank account opening?
Yes. We work directly with major UAE banks and have established relationships that streamline the process. Unlike other setup companies, we don’t just submit your application – we manage the entire process and handle compliance questions.
Our success rate: 100% for clients with complete documentation and legitimate business activities.