What types of companies can you set up in the UAE?

We handle mainland limited liability companies, all major free zone jurisdictions — DIFC, ADGM, DMCC, JAFZA, IFZA, and 40+ others — and offshore structures in RAK ICC and JAFZA. Our team advises on the right structure based on your activity, ownership requirements, and banking needs.

What is the difference between mainland, free zone, and offshore?

Mainland companies can trade directly in the UAE market and hold government contracts. Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership and sector-specific licences but restrict direct mainland trading without a local distributor. Offshore structures are used for holding, asset protection, and international contracting — they cannot operate commercially in the UAE.

How long does the company formation process typically take?

Most mainland LLCs are incorporated within 7–14 working days. Free zone formations typically complete in 3–7 working days. Bank account approvals vary by institution — we coordinate all submissions in parallel to minimise total elapsed time.

Can I set up a UAE company without being physically present in Dubai?

Yes. For most free zone jurisdictions, the full formation can be completed remotely through notarised and apostilled documents. Certain mainland activities and some bank account openings may require a brief in-person visit, which our team coordinates to minimise disruption to your schedule.

Do you provide ongoing support after company registration?

Our engagements are structured as ongoing advisory relationships, not one-time transactions. Post-formation, we provide corporate tax compliance, VAT filing, annual audit, visa processing, and corporate secretarial services — all under one engagement team.

Business Setup in Dubai | Marhaban Group

Dubai remains one of the most accessible places in the world to start a company, but the number of jurisdictions, licence types, and approval steps can feel overwhelming if you are doing it for the first time. Marhaban Group exists to remove that friction — we handle the paperwork and government liaison so you can focus on getting your business running.

How the process works

Every setup starts with the same three questions: what activity will you run, which jurisdiction fits that activity best (mainland, free zone, or offshore), and how many visas will you need. Once those are settled, we take care of trade name reservation, initial approval, legal documentation, licence issuance, and — where relevant — office leasing and bank account introductions.

Free consultation to map out the right structure for your goals
Transparent, itemised pricing with no hidden government fee surprises
A dedicated advisor from your first call through to your licence in hand

Most straightforward company formations complete within a week of documents being finalised. Use our cost calculator to get an instant estimate, or book a free consultation to talk through your specific situation.

Business Setup in Dubai

How the process works

What Will Your UAE Company Actually Cost?