Starting a business in Dubai in 2025 is fast, affordable, and fully open to foreign investors. Whether you want to enter travel, shipping, logistics, tourism, real estate, or vehicle rental, Dubai offers the legal frameworks and infrastructure to grow your business.
The UAE now allows 100% foreign ownership in most sectors. You can register in a mainland or free zone setup and get licensed in a few working days. Dubai also offers 0% income tax, strong international connectivity, and over 40 specialized free zones.
Can Foreigners Open a Business in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can fully own and operate businesses in Dubai. No local sponsor is needed for most activities. Both mainland and free zone setups allow you to legally register and run your company with full control.
| Topic | Details |
| Ownership | 100% foreign ownership allowed |
| Setup Types | Mainland, Free Zone, Offshore |
| Visa Sponsorship | You can sponsor yourself and employees |
| Startup Cost | From AED 15,000 depending on setup |
What Are the Business Setup Options in Dubai?
Dubai offers three major business setup types, each with unique benefits:
1. Mainland Company
- Operate across all Emirates
- Work with UAE government and private clients
- Requires physical office
- Licensed by Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET)
2. Free Zone Company
- Ideal for international trade and online services
- No customs duties within the zone
- 100% foreign ownership
- Cannot sell directly to UAE market without a local distributor
3. Offshore Company
- Used for asset protection, holding companies, or international trade
- Cannot operate within UAE domestic market
- No physical office required
Step-by-Step: How to Start a Business in Dubai
Follow this checklist to set up your business in Dubai in 2025:
- Choose your legal structure (LLC, FZCO, Sole Proprietorship)
- Pick your business activity (tourism, logistics, e-commerce, etc.)
- Reserve your company name
- Get initial approval from DET or Free Zone Authority
- Sign the MOA or agent agreement
- Lease an office or virtual desk
- Apply for the trade license
- Open your UAE business bank account
- Apply for investor and employee visas
Business Ideas for Foreigners Aligned with Al Rais Domains
Here are practical business ideas that match both foreign ownership rules and the core industries of Al Rais Group:
| Business Idea | Related Al Rais Domain | Best Setup |
| Inbound Tour Operations | Al Rais Tours & Holidays | Mainland or Free Zone |
| Air & Sea Freight Company | Al Rais Cargo Agencies | Free Zone (e.g., DAFZA) |
| Vehicle Leasing Platform | Al Rais Rent a Car | Mainland |
| Travel Visa & Documentation Service | Al Rais Travel Agencies | Free Zone |
| Holiday Homes & Property Management | Real Estate | Mainland (DTCM licensed) |
| E-commerce Logistics Fulfillment | Al Rais Shipping | Free Zone (Dubai South) |
| Group Corporate Travel Management | Travel & Shipping | Mainland (for government tenders) |
What Documents Do You Need?
Here are the common documents required for business setup:
- Valid passport copy
- Entry visa or visit stamp
- 2–3 company name options
- Passport-size photo
- MOA or agent contract (if mainland)
- Tenancy contract or virtual office agreement
Free zone setups often need fewer documents and can be processed remotely.
Business Setup Costs in Dubai (2025)
| Cost Item | Mainland (AED) | Free Zone (AED) |
| Trade License | 10,000–20,000 | 7,000–15,000 |
| Office/Desk | 15,000+ | 0–5,000 |
| Investor Visa | 3,000–6,000 | 2,500–4,000 |
| MOA, Documents, Names | 1,000–3,000 | 500–1,500 |
Best Free Zones in Dubai for Foreign Entrepreneurs
| Free Zone | Best For | Key Benefits |
| DMCC | Crypto, Trade | #1 Global Free Zone |
| IFZA | Freelancers, SMEs | Cheapest packages |
| DAFZA | Freight & Aviation | Next to DXB Airport |
| Dubai South | Logistics, Ecom | Warehousing support |
| DIFC | Finance & Law | Common Law system |
Do You Still Need a Local Partner?
No, not anymore. You can fully own your company under most business activities, especially in free zones and many mainland sectors.
Sectors that still require local agents include:
- Legal & court-related services
- Oil & gas
- Medical clinics
How to Get a UAE Investor Visa in 2025
| Visa Type | Validity | Eligibility |
| Investor Visa | 2 years | Company owner |
| 5-Year Visa | 5 years | Capital above AED 500,000 |
| Golden Visa | 10 years | AED 2M+ investment or expert talent |
Opening a Business Bank Account in UAE
Popular Banks:
- Emirate NBD
- Mashreq
- HSBC Middle East
- ADCB
- RAKBANK
Required documents:
- Trade License
- MOA
- Office lease
- Passport & Emirates ID
What Taxes Will You Pay?
| Tax Type | Rate | Conditions |
| Corporate Tax | 9% | Profits over AED 375,000/year |
| VAT | 5% | Turnover over AED 375,000 |
| Income Tax | 0% | No personal tax in UAE |
Many free zones still offer 100% corporate tax exemption, especially for companies operating only within the zone.
Who Can Help You Start Your Business?
You don’t need to handle all the legal work yourself. Setup firms can simplify your launch.
Top Setup Advisors:
- Virtuzone
- Creative Zone
- Shuraa
- Meydan Free Zone
- Commitbiz
“Al Rais Group will provide you consulting if you want to invest in UAE”
Ready to Launch?
- Once your license is approved:
- Open your business bank account
- Apply for UAE residence vis
- Hire staff (if needed)
- Register for VAT (if required)
- Start operations and marketing
Book a Free Consultation: Get Business Setup Help
