How long does setup take?

Most licenses issue in 3–7 working days depending on the authority.

Can I own 100% of my company?

Yes, full foreign ownership is permitted for most activities and zones.

What are the main costs?

Government fees + our service fee; pricing depends on zone, activity and visas.

Do you help with bank accounts?

Yes, we prepare the file and coordinate with partner banks.

Do I need an office lease?

Free zones often provide flexi-desk; mainland may require a lease depending on activity.

Can you assist with visas?

Yes, from establishment card to entry permit, status change and Emirates ID.

What documents do I need?

Passport copy, visa copy, bank statement, and business plan are typically required.

Is there ongoing compliance support?

Yes, we provide annual compliance, VAT filing, and license renewal services.

How quickly can I receive my business license after starting the application?

The timeframe to receive a business license from a Dubai-based Free Zone varies depending on several factors, such as the type of license, the completeness of the application, and any additional approvals required. Generally, once the documents are uploaded and the signatories sign the application form, the process usually takes between 4 to 6 working days. For a Sharjah-based Free Zone, the process is typically faster. After submitting the required documents and obtaining the necessary signatures, you can expect to receive your license within 2 to 4 working days. In both Free Zones, along with the license, you will also receive the Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum of Association (MOA), Articles of Association (AOA), and the Office Lease Agreement.

What documents are required by Instacorp to establish a business in the UAE?

Passport copy and Emirates ID copy for Shareholders who are UAE residents

What types of taxes are relevant in the UAE?

1. **Value Added Tax (VAT)**: - **Introduced**: January 1, 2018 - **Rate**: 5% - **Application**: Almost all goods and services, with some exemptions 2. **Corporate Tax**: - **Effective**: June 1, 2023 - **Rates for Qualifying Free Zone Persons**: - 0% on Qualifying Income - 9% on Non-Qualifying Income 3. **Excise Tax**: - **Applicable Goods**: Tobacco products, carbonated drinks, energy drinks - **Rates**: Vary by product 4. **Withholding Tax**: - **Overview**: No withholding tax on dividends, interest, or royalties to non-residents 5. **Tax Treaties**: - **Overview**: Double taxation avoidance agreements (DTAs) with several countries **Additional Considerations**: - **Municipal Fees**: May apply in some emirates - **Customs Duties**: Typically, 5% on imports/exports - **Tourism Fees**: For hotels and hospitality services

How is a Free Zone different from the Mainland?

1. **Ownership**: - **Free Zone**: 100% foreign ownership, no local sponsor needed. - **Mainland**: 100% foreign ownership allowed in many sectors due to recent reforms. 2. **Business Activities**: - **Free Zone**: Limited to free zone or international operations; needs local distributor in mainland for certain activities. - **Mainland**: Can operate freely across the UAE and with other mainland companies. 3. **Office Space Requirements**: - **Free Zone**: Must lease office space within the free zone. - **Mainland**: Can lease office space anywhere in the UAE, subject to licensing. 4. **Taxation**: - **Free Zone**: Offers tax incentives, such as exemption from corporate tax for Qualifying Free Zone Persons. - **Mainland**: Subject to UAE's federal tax policies, including new corporate tax regime. 5. **Customs Duties**: - **Free Zone**: Exempt from customs duties unless goods enter mainland UAE. - **Mainland**: Customs duties apply as per federal regulations. 6. **Regulatory Environment**: - **Free Zone**: Operates under its own rules; generally, more lenient compliance. - **Mainland**: Regulated by UAE federal and emirate-specific laws, typically stricter compliance. 7. **Visa Quotas**: - **Free Zones**: Linked to license fee and office space size. - **Mainland**: No strict limits on visas; influenced by office size.

Are there any benefits to setting up a company in the UAE?

Yes, setting up a company in the UAE offers numerous advantages, including: 1. **Strategic Location**: Access to over 2 billion people within a 4-hour flight radius; excellent trade and logistics. 2. **Economic Stability**: Diversified economy with strong sectors and high rankings for ease of doing business. 3. **Tax Benefits**: - **Corporate Tax**: 9% on profits exceeding a threshold; 0% for Qualifying Free Zone Persons on qualifying income. - **No Personal Income Tax**: Attractive for individuals and expatriates. - **VAT**: Low rate of 5%; certain Free Zone companies may be VAT exempt. - **No Withholding Tax**: On dividends, interest, or royalties for non-resident entities. - **Tax Treaties**: Agreements to mitigate double taxation. 4. **100% Foreign Ownership**: Allowed in many mainland sectors and always in Free Zones. 5. **World-Class Infrastructure**: Advanced telecom, transport networks, ports, airports, and specialized Free Zones. 6. **Free Zones**: Over 40 Free Zones offering tax exemptions, 100% profit repatriation, and simplified import/export procedures. 7. **High Quality of Life**: Excellent healthcare, education, recreation, low crime rate, and a safe environment. 8. **Ease of Business Setup**: Streamlined registration processes, support services, and government initiatives. 9. **Access to Skilled Workforce**: Diverse pool of skilled professionals and flexible labor policies. 10. **Innovative Environment**: Strong focus on innovation with initiatives like Dubai Future Foundation, incubators, and accelerators.

What are the benefits of starting your business through Instacorp?

Instacorp offers many advantages for new entrepreneurs and foreign investors looking to start a business in the UAE: 1. **Efficiency and Speed**: - Accelerates the business setup process, significantly reducing the time required. 2. **Cost-Effective**: - Eliminates costly consultancy fees with a digital solution that guides you through each step. 3. **Convenience**: - Manages all necessary processes and paperwork from a single platform. 4. **Expert Guidance**: - Provides comprehensive guidance and support to ensure compliance with regulations. 5. **Transparency**: - Offers real-time updates and clear information on your application's status. 6. **Customized Solutions**: - Tailors services to fit your specific business needs and industry requirements. 7. **Access to Additional Services**: - Available services include accounting, legal advice, and marketing support. 8. **Regulatory Compliance**: - Ensures your business setup complies with UAE laws, reducing risk. 9. **Wide Network**: - Leverages a broad network of local and international partners for valuable business connections.

Can I open a bank account for my business in the UAE?

Yes, you can open a bank account for your business in the UAE. Here's a quick overview: 1. **Initial Requirements**: Obtain a valid trade license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant Free Zone authority. 2. **Gathering Documentation**: Prepare documents like your Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum and Articles of Association, board resolution, and passport copies and Emirates IDs of all shareholders and authorized signatories. 3. **Choosing the Bank**: Research and select a bank that fits your business needs in terms of services, account features, fees, and online banking facilities. 4. **Submitting Your Application**: Submit the completed application with all required documents. Some banks offer online applications, while others may require an in-person visit. 5. **Verification and Approval**: The bank will review your application, which may take a few days to a few weeks. Stay responsive for any additional information requests. 6. **Post-Approval**: Once approved, you'll receive your account details and possibly a checkbook, debit card, and access to online banking.

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For over eight years, the UAE has been the home where we build, grow, and serve every entrepreneur who chooses this great nation as theirs. We salute the vision of its leadership and the resilience of its people — the spirit that makes this country extraordinary.

At Instacorp, we stand with the UAE — today, and every day.

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How It Works

Setup Your Business in Minutes

Our streamlined process makes starting your business in the UAE quick, easy, and completely online

Tell Us About Your Business

Quick business analysis with smart activity suggestions and jurisdiction selection

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Streamlined document preparation with our guided upload process

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Fast-track authority approvals and license issuance on your behalf

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Everything you need to launch and grow your business in the UAE, all from one digital platform

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Track your application progress instantly on your dashboard

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Dubai Free Zone

AED12,900

Dedicated Account Manager
Trade name reservation
License & Company Documents
Virtual Office lease
Full regulatory & compliance support
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Company Stamp

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Compare Your Options

Everything you need to know about setup options, documents, and timelines

Feature	Mainland	Free Zone	Offshore
Ownership	Up to 100% foreign ownership for most activities	100% foreign ownership	100% foreign; holding and international only
Local Market	Full access to sell anywhere in UAE	Within zone + internationally; local distributor for mainland	No UAE onshore trading
Office	Physical office or approved shared options	Virtual office or flexi-desk available	No UAE office allowed
Setup Time	3–7 working days	1–5 working days	2–5 working days

Google Reviews

Rated 4.9/5 by 300+ Clients

Real reviews from real entrepreneurs who built their UAE business with Instacorp

“I just wanted to give a huge shout-out to Instacorp and especially John Thomas from their operations team for making my business relocation experience incredibly smooth. When I was thinking about moving abroad to start my business, I had no idea where to begin. Instacorp made the entire process so simple. Everything was done online, and I was able to fill out my application in just 5 minutes from my couch. John even helped me set up a bank account for my company without me needing to step outside.”

Benji Charly

Business Relocation

“Opening a business bank account in the UAE felt intimidating, but Instacorp made it so easy. I could do everything online, and they provided all the details I needed on their website. They guided me through the process, and my account was set up within 2 weeks. It saved me so much time compared to trying to figure it out myself.”

Adel Saleem

Bank Account Setup

“Instacorp made setting up my business in the UAE super easy — all online! I didn't have to go anywhere in person. Their website guided me through every step, and all the info I needed was right there. They even have blogs that break down the process, so I knew exactly what to expect.”

Sandeep Sajeevan

Business Setup

Strategic Partners

Backed by Industry Leaders

We partner with trusted authorities and global platforms to deliver seamless business setup

Sharjah Free Zone Authority

Dubai Free Zone Authority

Business Protection

Payments Infrastructure

Why Instacorp

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Trained on all UAE business regulations

Get instant, accurate answers about Free Zones, Mainland setup, visas, banking, and compliance. Available 24/7 to guide your business journey.

100% Digital Process

Complete everything online — no office visits, no queues

8+ Years Experience

UAE business setup expertise with a 100% success rate

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Clear, upfront pricing with all government fees included

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License in days, not weeks. Streamlined for speed

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