Ever wonder why so many entrepreneurs pack their bags, land in Dubai, and never look back? It’s not just the skyline or the sunshine. It’s the fact that Dubai has turned itself into one of the easiest places in the world to set up a business—especially if you’re a foreigner.
Of course, “easiest” doesn’t mean “effortless.” There are still forms, approvals, and those moments where you ask yourself: Am I doing this right? But here’s the thing—if you understand how the system works in 2025, you’re already ten steps ahead.
That’s exactly what we’ll dive into: the opportunities, the process, and the little details that can make or break your business journey in Dubai.
Why Dubai Still Tops the List
Here’s the short version: Dubai ticks boxes most countries can’t.
- Zero income tax means what you earn is yours.
- 100% foreign ownership is no longer a dream—it’s the new normal.
- Strategic location puts you within reach of Asia, Africa, and Europe in a single flight.
- Government reforms keep opening doors. As of late-2024, free zone companies can apply for a DET/DoE permit (dual licence/branch) to operate in the mainland under Cabinet Resolution 56/2024—much simpler than before, but still subject to permits, scope limits and fees.
And beyond the rules? There’s the vibe. Dubai has that “build big, build fast” energy that entrepreneurs crave. The city doesn’t just welcome ideas—it thrives on them.
Mainland vs. Free Zone vs. Offshore: What’s Best for You?
This is usually the first fork in the road. Let’s break it down without the jargon.
- Mainland: Want to work with government contracts, hire a big team, or serve customers all over the UAE? Mainland is your playground. It gives you the most flexibility, though setup can take a little longer and costs are generally higher.
- Free Zone: Think of this as a launchpad for global trade, e-commerce, or niche industries like tech or media. Free zones offer quick setup, cool perks like duty-free imports, and packages that include visas. The catch used to be: you couldn’t sell directly in the UAE mainland. As of 2025? That’s changed. Free zones can now reach mainland markets legally. Game changer.
- Offshore: More of a financial tool than an operating business. Offshore companies are great for holding assets, IP, or running international transactions—but you won’t be renting office space in Dubai with one.
So, How Do You Actually Start?
Here’s the roadmap most foreign entrepreneurs follow (with a few of my own insights along the way):
- Pick your business activity. Dubai doesn’t do “one size fits all.” There are over 2,000 activities—from consultancy to logistics to crypto services. Your choice dictates your license.
- Choose your jurisdiction. Free zone, mainland, or offshore. (Pro tip: this is where people waste weeks second-guessing. Get advice early—saves time and money.)
- Lock in a trade name. It’s surprisingly quick to reserve a name here. Just make sure it’s clean and not stepping on any cultural sensitivities.
- Get initial approval. This is your “green light” from the authorities to proceed.
- Sort your documents. For mainland, that’s a Memorandum of Association and Ejari (lease). For free zones, it’s usually lighter paperwork.
- Pay and submit. Depending on your license, this can be wrapped up in a week (free zones) or a few weeks (mainland).
- Open your bank account. Sounds simple, right? Here’s the truth: this is where a lot of foreigners hit delays. Compliance is tight. Having someone who’s opened over a thousand corporate bank accounts (like HA Group) can save you from weeks of back-and-forth.
- Get your visa. This is where your new company starts to feel real. You can sponsor yourself, your team, even your family.
- Move into your office. Mainland companies need physical space. Free zones? Many let you start with flexi-desks or virtual offices—low cost, big convenience.
- Stay compliant. Annual license renewals, tax filings if you’re on the mainland, and keeping an eye on new regulations. (And yes, they do change fast here.)
What Does It Cost?
Let’s talk numbers, because that’s what most people want to know first.
- Free zone licenses can start as low as AED 5,750.
- Mainland setups usually range from AED 15,000 to 30,000+, depending on your activity and office.
- Extras like visas, office rent, and banking add to the total.
The good news? Dubai has options for almost every budget. The trick is knowing which packages actually fit your business—and which ones are just shiny marketing.
The Challenges Nobody Tells You About
Starting a business in Dubai is straightforward if you know the system. But here are the stumbling blocks foreigners trip over again and again:
- Picking the wrong jurisdiction and paying double later.
- Delays in opening a bank account.
- Underestimating costs (yes, there are hidden ones if you’re not careful).
- Getting lost in paperwork—because even a missing stamp can mean a two-week delay.
That’s exactly why HA Group exists. Over the last five years, we’ve guided thousands of entrepreneurs through these exact hurdles—helping them launch faster, smarter, and with fewer headaches.
Quickfire FAQ
Can I really own 100% of my company?
Yes. Free zones always allowed it, and now most mainland activities do too.
Do I need to be in Dubai to set up?
Not always. Some steps can be done remotely, but you’ll need to be here for things like visa stamping and banking.
How fast can I start?
Free zones: about a week. Mainland: two to four weeks, depending on the activity.
What’s the minimum investment?
Around AED 5,750 if you’re starting small in a free zone. Mainland setups require more.
Can my free zone company sell in the mainland now?
Yes. As of 2025, free zone companies can operate in the mainland without the old restrictions.
Why Work with HA Group
Look, you can absolutely set up a business in Dubai on your own. Thousands do. But here’s the reality:
Every form you fill, every bank you approach, every step you take—there’s a faster, smoother way to do it if you know the system. That’s what we’ve spent years mastering. From securing trade licenses to opening bank accounts to processing visas, HA Group has walked this road over and over for people just like you.
We’ve helped a freelancer become a founder. A family turn an investment into a company. A startup expand across multiple emirates. The next story could be yours.
Final Word
Starting a business in Dubai as a foreigner in 2025 isn’t just possible—it’s one of the smartest moves you can make right now. The laws have shifted in your favor, the costs are more flexible than ever, and the opportunities? They’re endless.
The only real question is: how do you want to start?
If your answer is “smoothly, with as few headaches as possible,” then that’s where we come in.
Book a free consultation with HA Group today—and let’s make your Dubai business more than just a dream.
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