Can a foreigner own 100% of a UAE mainland company?
Yes, for most activities. The UAE's 2021 Commercial Companies Law reform removed the requirement for a UAE national partner for the majority of commercial and professional activities. A small number of "strategic activities" (defence, certain media, certain financial services) still require UAE national involvement. Amara verifies ownership eligibility for your specific activity before incorporation.
How long does it take to set up a UAE company?
Typical timelines:
- Dubai mainland (DED LLC): 7–15 working days from complete documentation submission
- Freezone (standard): 3–10 working days; some zones offer express options
- Regulated activities (financial services, healthcare, food): add 2–6 weeks for pre-approvals
The actual timeline depends heavily on document readiness. Companies where shareholders have clean, straightforward documentation move faster.
What is the minimum share capital required?
For most mainland LLC structures in Dubai, there is no minimum paid-up share capital requirement for standard commercial activities. Historically AED 300,000 was the notional minimum but this is not enforced for most sectors.
For regulated activities and certain freezone structures, minimum capital requirements apply — these vary by activity and authority.
Do I need a physical office?
For mainland companies, most DED licences require a registered commercial address — either a physical office, a flexi-desk at a business centre, or a virtual office (depending on the activity). Some activities (healthcare, food production, certain industrial activities) require a proper physical premises.
For freezone companies, a flexi-desk arrangement within the freezone is generally sufficient for standard business licences.
Can I set up a UAE company remotely without visiting the UAE?
Partially. Many freezone setups can be completed entirely remotely — documents are signed and notarised in the home jurisdiction and submitted electronically. Mainland LLC formation technically requires a UAE notary, though some business centres facilitate this via power of attorney arrangements.
However, the residency visa process (medical test and Emirates ID biometrics) requires physical presence in the UAE. If visa processing is part of your plan, at least one trip will be needed.
What is the difference between a trade licence and a business registration?
In UAE terminology, the trade licence is the operational document that authorises you to carry out specific commercial activities. The business registration (Certificate of Incorporation) is the corporate document confirming the entity's legal existence. Both are issued together as part of the formation process, but they serve different functions — the trade licence is renewed annually (and is the day-to-day proof of your right to operate), while the Certificate of Incorporation is a permanent document.
How much does it cost to set up a company in the UAE?
Cost ranges vary significantly by emirate, jurisdiction, and activity:
| Setup Type | Indicative Range (AED) |
|---|---|
| Standard freezone (IFZA, RAKEZ) | AED 8,000 – 20,000 |
| Mid-tier freezone (DMCC) | AED 20,000 – 50,000+ |
| Dubai mainland LLC | AED 25,000 – 55,000+ |
| Abu Dhabi mainland | AED 20,000 – 45,000+ |
| Premium zone (DIFC, ADGM) | AED 30,000 – 80,000+ |
These ranges include authority fees and a compliant address. They exclude visa fees, PRO costs, and any sector-specific regulatory costs.
What is an Establishment Card?
An Establishment Card (also called a Company Stamp or Company Card) is a document issued to a UAE company by the relevant authority confirming the company's basic details and identifying its authorised signatories. It is required for various government transactions, including visa applications for employees. Amara obtains the Establishment Card as part of the post-licence setup.