Free zone company formation in the UAE typically starts from around AED 5,750 for a freelancer/starter package, with standard business packages from AED 9,750 and corporate packages from AED 15,750, depending on the free zone, licence type, and number of visas required. Mainland setup costs vary by activity and emirate. KDHA PRIVE provides a fixed quote after a free consultation.

A mainland company can trade anywhere in the UAE and internationally with a Department of Economic Development licence. A free zone company offers 100% foreign ownership and is best suited to businesses trading internationally or within the free zone. An offshore company is used mainly for holding assets or international structuring and cannot trade directly within the UAE market.

Yes. UAE free zones have always allowed 100% foreign ownership, and mainland company law now permits 100% foreign ownership for most business activities across Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, and the other emirates, removing the earlier requirement for a local Emirati sponsor in most sectors.

Free zone company formation can be completed in as little as 3–7 working days once documents are submitted. Mainland setup and investor visa processing typically take 1–3 weeks depending on the licence type, approvals required, and Emirates ID/medical appointment scheduling.

The UAE applies a 9% corporate tax on taxable profits above AED 375,000, with 0% below that threshold for qualifying small businesses, and a standard 5% VAT applies to most goods and services once a business crosses the mandatory registration threshold. Free zone entities may qualify for a 0% rate on qualifying income if they meet Qualifying Free Zone Person conditions. KDHA PRIVE handles corporate tax registration, VAT registration, and ongoing filing.

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa (typically 10 years) for investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals who meet specific investment or qualification criteria, renewable without the need for a local sponsor. Eligibility and required documentation vary by category, and KDHA PRIVE’s PRO team manages Golden Visa applications end-to-end.

For most free zone and mainland formations, the core documents required are a valid passport copy, a passport-sized photograph, and a completed application form. Some activities or free zones require additional documents such as a business plan, professional qualification certificates, or a No Objection Certificate if you are currently employed in the UAE. KDHA PRIVE confirms the exact checklist for your specific activity and chosen jurisdiction before you begin.

Yes, for many free zone formations the process can be completed remotely — documents are submitted digitally and signed electronically, and the licence is issued without requiring your physical presence. Mainland company formation and visa-related steps such as Emirates ID biometrics, medical screening, and bank account opening typically do require in-person attendance, though KDHA PRIVE coordinates scheduling to minimise the time you need to spend on the ground.

The right free zone depends on your business activity, budget, visa requirements, and whether you need a physical office or a flexi-desk. DMCC is suited to commodities, crypto, and multi-activity trading. IFZA and Meydan are cost-competitive options for consultants and SMEs. ADGM and DIFC are regulated financial centres for fintech, funds, and professional services. Sharjah and Ajman free zones offer some of the most affordable packages for startups. KDHA PRIVE compares the options against your activity and recommends the most cost-effective jurisdiction.

UAE corporate bank accounts require a valid trade licence, shareholder passport copies, proof of business activity, and often a business plan or proof of initial transactions. Most banks conduct a due diligence interview and approval can take 2–6 weeks depending on the bank and business profile. KDHA PRIVE introduces clients to suitable banking partners and assists with the application and documentation to improve approval chances.

Yes. Once your UAE residence visa is issued through your company, you can sponsor dependants including a spouse, children under 18 (or up to 25 if enrolled in education), and in some cases parents. The sponsorship requires proof of a minimum monthly salary and a tenancy contract for suitable accommodation. KDHA PRIVE’s PRO team handles the full family visa and Emirates ID process.

Most free zones and mainland structures have no mandatory paid-up share capital requirement for standard commercial licences — a nominal share capital is declared but does not need to be deposited. Certain regulated activities such as banking, insurance, and investment management carry specific minimum capital requirements set by their respective regulators. KDHA PRIVE confirms the capital requirements for your activity before incorporation.

PRO (Public Relations Officer) services handle the government liaison work required throughout the life of a UAE business — including visa applications, Emirates ID registration, labour card processing, licence renewals, Ejari contracts, and document attestation. Without a PRO, business owners must navigate multiple government portals and offices themselves. KDHA PRIVE’s dedicated PRO team manages these processes on your behalf, saving time and avoiding errors that delay approvals.

Yes, many UAE free zones and mainland authorities allow multiple related activities to be grouped under a single licence, subject to approval. The permitted combination of activities varies by jurisdiction and activity type. Some regulated activities require separate approvals or additional licences regardless of the primary licence. KDHA PRIVE reviews your intended activities and structures the licence to cover as many as possible under one application.