Setting up a company in the UAE is not just about running a business — it’s also one of the most reliable ways to obtain a residence visa in Dubai. For entrepreneurs, freelancers, and investors, this route provides both business freedom and residency stability.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll explore exactly how to get a Dubai residence visa through company setup, based on official UAE regulations and verified government data.
Why This Route Matters
The UAE has built a system that allows company owners and partners to sponsor their own residence visas — instead of depending on an employer. According to the official government portal U.AE, the “residence visa for doing business in the UAE” is specifically designed for investors and entrepreneurs establishing commercial activity in the country.
This route matters because it:
- Allows full or majority foreign ownership (especially in Free Zones).
- Provides a legal path to long-term UAE residency.
- Simplifies family sponsorship once the investor visa is issued.
Visa Options Through Company Formation
When setting up a company in Dubai, there are several visa pathways you can choose from — each with different requirements and validity periods.
1. Investor / Partner Residence Visa
This is the standard path for business owners. Once your company licence is issued — whether Mainland or Free Zone — you become eligible to apply for an investor or partner visa under your company’s sponsorship.
Typically, this visa is valid for two to three years and renewable, provided your company remains active and compliant. It also allows you to sponsor dependents (spouse, children, parents, or domestic staff).
2. Green Visa for Investors or Partners
The UAE’s Green Visa extends residence for up to five years without requiring a local sponsor. It’s ideal for individuals who own or partner in a UAE-based business, provided they can show proof of investment (usually capital of AED 1 million or more).
Unlike the standard 2-year investor visa, the Green Visa offers longer stability and simplified renewals — a key advantage for entrepreneurs planning long-term operations.
3. Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
For large-scale investors or successful entrepreneurs, the Golden Visa program offers 10 years of residency.
To qualify under the business category, you must either:
- Own or invest at least AED 2 million in a UAE company, or
- Be a founder of a project previously sold for not less than AED 7 million, subject to approval by relevant authorities.
This route grants long-term residency, greater flexibility in travel, and extended family sponsorship benefits.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Dubai Residence Visa Through Company Setup
Step 1: Choose Your Business Jurisdiction and Structure
You’ll need to decide between:
- Mainland: Allows trading directly within the UAE market and government contracts.
- Free Zone: Offers 100% foreign ownership, lower setup costs, and streamlined processes.
Each Free Zone (like DMCC, RAKEZ, or IFZA) has its own rules and visa quotas, so aligning your business activity with the correct jurisdiction is key.
Step 2: Register the Company and Obtain a Trade Licence
- Select an approved trade name and legal entity (LLC, FZE, etc.).
- Secure initial approval and pay the relevant government and licensing fees.
- Lease office space (physical or flexi-desk depending on zone).
- Receive your trade licence, which becomes the foundation of your visa application.
Step 3: Apply for the Investor / Partner Visa
Once your company licence is active:
- Entry Permit: Apply for a UAE entry permit if you’re outside the country.
- Medical Test & Emirates ID: Complete your health screening and biometric registration.
- Visa Stamping: Once approved, your passport will receive the residence visa endorsement.
You can then open a local bank account, lease accommodation, and begin sponsoring family members under your residency.
Step 4: Renew Regularly
- Company licence: Must be renewed annually.
- Residence visa: Typically every 2–3 years (Green Visa – every 5, Golden Visa – every 10).
- Maintain an active Emirates ID and health insurance policy.
Failure to renew either your trade licence or visa on time may result in cancellation.
Pitfalls and Common Misconceptions
- “Company setup automatically gives a visa.”
– Incorrect. You must still apply, complete a medical test, and obtain Emirates ID approval. - “All business visas last 5–10 years.”
– False. Only Green or Golden Visas offer long durations; standard investor visas remain 2–3 years. - “No need to maintain office space.”
– Most Free Zones and Mainland authorities require proof of an active office lease or flexi-desk. - “You can ignore visa renewal if the company is running.”
– Both licence and visa renewals are separate legal obligations.
Official channels such as GDRFAD and U.AE remain the most accurate sources for visa validity and renewal rules.
Benefits of This Route
- Full ownership: Most Free Zones now allow 100% foreign ownership.
- Self-sponsorship: No need for a local employer to sponsor your visa.
- Family sponsorship: Once approved, you can sponsor dependents and domestic staff.
- Banking access: Residency unlocks eligibility for UAE bank accounts, credit, and leasing.
- Tax efficiency: No personal income tax and attractive corporate tax exemptions for small businesses (under AED 375,000 profit).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How long does a Dubai residence visa last through company setup?
Most business owners start with a 2–3-year residence visa, but if you qualify for advanced categories like the Green Visa, you’re looking at up to 5 years. Those who meet the Golden Visa criteria can enjoy 10 years of uninterrupted residency — no renewals, no yearly stress.
Q2. Can I set up a company remotely?
Absolutely. Many Free Zones now handle everything digitally — from e-signatures to document verification. You can complete most of the setup from anywhere in the world. Just note: you’ll need to fly to Dubai for the medical test and visa stamping once your initial approvals are ready.
Q3. Can I sponsor my family members?
Yes — and it’s one of the biggest advantages of holding a UAE residence visa. Once your own visa is active, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and even parents, as long as you meet the minimum income and housing criteria set by the authorities. It’s how many business owners make Dubai not just a base — but home.
Q4. Which is better for visa purposes: Mainland or Free Zone?
It depends on your goals. Free Zones are fast, affordable, and perfect if you want full foreign ownership with minimal bureaucracy. Mainland setups, on the other hand, give you more freedom to trade across the UAE market and work with government entities. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — the smarter move is to choose what aligns with your business model and future plans.
Key Takeaways
- Setting up a company in Dubai is one of the most practical paths to residency in 2025.
- Choose between Mainland, Free Zone, Green, or Golden Visa routes depending on your investment size and goals.
- Always rely on official government portals like U.AE, GDRFAD, and ICP.gov.ae for up-to-date rules.
- Partnering with an experienced consultant like HA Group ensures compliance, accuracy, and smooth processing.
How We Can Help
At HA Group, we don’t just tick boxes — we take the guesswork out of UAE business setup. From picking the right company structure to getting your Dubai residence visa approved, our team makes the entire process feel effortless.
Maybe you’re launching your very first start-up. Maybe you’re expanding into Dubai because the world is finally catching up with your ambition. Either way, we’re right there beside you — navigating the paperwork, decoding the regulations, and turning what could be stressful into something seamless.
Book your consultation today, and let’s transform your business setup into a clear, confident path to UAE residency.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, fees, and timelines can change — sometimes faster than you’d expect. Always confirm the latest updates through official UAE government portals before taking action.
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