How Much Does It Cost to Start a Business in Dubai or the UAE?
That depends — are you registering a company in a Dubai Free Zone, or opting for a Mainland license? Will you need investor or employee visas? Are you looking for an ecommerce license in Dubai, or a more traditional setup?
Several factors influence the business setup cost in the UAE. That’s why we’ve created a hassle-free Business Setup Cost Calculator to give you an instant, personalised estimate. Whether you’re starting a business in Dubai as a foreigner or comparing Dubai company registration fees, this tool helps you make smart, informed decisions from the start.
Not sure what type of business license you need?
Use this quick comparison to understand the types of business licenses in the UAE, and how each impacts your setup cost, scope of work, and operations.
| License Type | Best For | Ownership | Tax Benefits | Setup Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free Zone License | Online businesses, exporters | 100% | 0% corporate tax on qualifying income | Fast |
| Mainland License | Businesses targeting UAE market | 100% (new laws) | Access to UAE-wide contracts | Medium |
| E-commerce License | Online trading or service platforms | 100% | Eligible for tax exemptions | Fast |
| Professional License | Consultants, freelancers, creatives | 100% | Depends on structure | Fast |
Join 80,000+ happy customers
Make sure you hire the best in the business for your business setup in Dubai. With Virtuzone, you will fast-track your path to business success.
15+
years in the business
80,000+
happy customers
250+
team members
40+
languages spoken
20+
industry awards
MAIN OFFICE
- Click for directions
- Sunday-Thursday 9am-6pm