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Starting a business in the UAE is one of the smartest decisions for entrepreneurs, and understanding the business setup in Dubai cost is the first and most important step. Dubai offers flexible business structures, tax advantages, and global market access, but costs can vary depending on the type of company, license, location, and visa requirements.
This in-depth guide explains the exact cost of business setup in Dubai, including mainland, free zone, and offshore options, so you can plan your investment confidently.
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The cost of business setup in Dubai generally ranges from AED 12,500 to AED 45,000+, depending on several factors such as:
Type of business activity
Jurisdiction (Mainland, Free Zone, Offshore)
Number of visas required
Office or virtual office requirements
Government approvals and compliance fees
Choosing the right structure helps reduce unnecessary expenses while ensuring full legal compliance.
A Dubai mainland company allows you to trade anywhere in the UAE and work directly with government entities.
| Cost Component | Approximate Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade License | 12,000 – 18,000 |
| Initial Approval | 1,000 – 3,000 |
| Local Service Agent / Sponsor (if applicable) | 8,000 – 15,000 |
| Office Ejari | 8,000 – 25,000 |
| Visa Cost (per visa) | 3,500 – 5,500 |
Total Mainland Business Setup Cost: 👉 AED 25,000 – AED 45,000+
Mainland setup is ideal for businesses targeting the UAE local market.
Free zones are popular for startups and foreign investors due to 100% ownership and simplified processes.
| Cost Component | Approximate Cost (AED) |
| Free Zone License | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Registration Fee | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Flexi Desk / Virtual Office | 3,000 – 8,000 |
| Visa Cost (per visa) | 3,000 – 5,000 |
Total Free Zone Business Setup Cost: 👉 AED 12,500 – AED 30,000
Free zones are best for:
International trading
Online businesses
Consulting and IT services
An offshore company is the most affordable option but does not allow local UAE operations.
| Cost Component | Approximate Cost (AED) |
| Registration Fee | 8,000 – 12,000 |
| Registered Agent Fee | Included |
| Annual Renewal | 7,000 – 10,000 |
Total Offshore Company Setup Cost: 👉 AED 10,000 – AED 15,000
Best for:
Asset protection
International holdings
Global trading operations
The type of license significantly impacts the business setup cost in Dubai.
Commercial License: AED 12,000 – 18,000
Professional License: AED 10,000 – 15,000
Industrial License: AED 15,000 – 25,000
Additional approvals may increase costs for regulated activities.
Visa costs are a major part of the total Dubai business setup cost.
Entry Permit: AED 500 – 1,200
Medical Test: AED 300 – 700
Emirates ID: AED 370 – 570
Visa Stamping: AED 800 – 1,200
Total Visa Cost: AED 3,500 – 5,500 per visa
If budget is your priority, consider:
Free zone packages with flexi desk
Zero-visa business licenses
Professional licenses
Shared office solutions
Low-cost business setup in Dubai can start from AED 12,500, depending on the free zone and activity.
Many entrepreneurs overlook additional expenses such as:
Bank account opening assistance
Accounting and VAT registration
Annual license renewal
Office upgrades
Regulatory compliance fees
Planning for these ensures accurate budgeting.
| Business Type | Cost Range (AED) |
| Mainland Company | 25,000 – 45,000+ |
| Free Zone Company | 12,500 – 30,000 |
| Offshore Company | 10,000 – 15,000 |
MAFAZA helps entrepreneurs reduce business setup costs in Dubai through:
Transparent pricing
Government-approved processes
Custom cost-optimized packages
End-to-end support
We ensure you pay only what is required, nothing more.
The minimum business setup cost in Dubai starts from AED 12,500 in select free zones.
Yes, mainland setup usually costs more due to office and sponsorship requirements.
Yes, free zone companies and many mainland activities allow 100% foreign ownership.
Business registration typically takes 3–7 working days, depending on approvals.
Understanding the business setup in Dubai cost helps you choose the right structure, avoid hidden expenses, and launch your company smoothly. Whether you choose mainland, free zone, or offshore, Dubai offers scalable and cost-effective options for every entrepreneur.
📞 Contact MAFAZA today for a personalized cost breakdown and expert guidance on starting your business in Dubai.
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