Company Formation in Dubai
Mainland, free zone and offshore company setup across the UAE, managed end to end by senior advisors.
About this service
IDOS Business Services incorporates companies across Dubai and the wider UAE — mainland entities licensed by the Department of Economy and Tourism, free zone companies in every major authority, and offshore structures for holding and asset protection.
We start with a jurisdiction assessment: your activity, ownership plan, visa quota, office requirement and budget determine whether mainland or free zone is genuinely the right structure. You get a written recommendation with total cost before anything is filed.
Key benefits
100% ownership
Foreign ownership structures for both mainland and free zone entities, with no local partner required for most activities.
Right jurisdiction
Independent comparison of mainland vs. free zone vs. offshore based on your activity, visas and banking needs.
Fixed, transparent cost
A full quotation covering government fees, licence, establishment card and visa quota — no surprises mid-process.
Post-setup support
Bank account preparation, corporate tax registration, visas and PRO services once the licence is issued.
All authorities covered
DET mainland plus DMCC, IFZA, Meydan, SHAMS, RAKEZ, JAFZA, DAFZA and every major free zone.
Dedicated senior advisor
One named consultant owns your incorporation from first call to licence collection.
Our process
- 1Consultation and jurisdiction recommendation
- 2Trade name reservation and initial approval
- 3MOA drafting, notarisation and lease or flexi-desk
- 4Licence issuance and establishment card
- 5Visa quota, Emirates ID and bank account support
Required documents
- Passport copies of all shareholders and managers
- Passport-size photographs on white background
- Visit visa or entry stamp copy if inside the UAE
- Emirates ID and residence visa copy for UAE residents
- No objection certificate from a current UAE sponsor where required
- Three proposed trade names in order of preference
- Business plan for regulated or financial activities
- Attested degree certificate for professional licences
Frequently asked questions
How long does company formation in Dubai take?
Free zone companies are typically licensed in 3–7 working days. Mainland companies usually take 5–10 working days once documents and approvals are in place.
Can I own 100% of my Dubai company?
Yes. Free zone companies have always allowed full foreign ownership, and most mainland commercial and professional activities now permit 100% foreign ownership as well.
Do I need a physical office?
Mainland licences require a tenancy contract (Ejari). Most free zones accept a flexi-desk or shared desk package, which we arrange as part of the setup.
What is the difference between mainland and free zone?
Mainland companies can trade directly anywhere in the UAE market and bid for government work; free zone companies enjoy simpler setup and customs benefits but need a distributor or branch for onshore trade.
How many visas can my company sponsor?
Visa quota depends on jurisdiction and office size. Flexi-desk packages typically allow one to six visas, while leased office space increases the quota proportionally.
Can I set up remotely without visiting Dubai?
Most free zone incorporations can be completed remotely with a notarised power of attorney. Only visa stamping and biometrics require a short visit.
Is a local Emirati partner required?
For most commercial and professional activities, no. Certain strategic-impact activities still require a local partner or service agent, which we identify upfront.
What ongoing obligations follow incorporation?
Annual licence renewal, corporate tax registration and filing, VAT where applicable, bookkeeping, and immigration and labour card renewals.
Start your Company Formation today
Book a free consultation with a senior advisor and get clear costs, timelines and document requirements.