Set Up Your 100% Foreign-Owned UAE Company Quickly and Compliantly
Setting up a company in the United Arab Emirates can be quite the process. From choosing between free zone, mainland, or financial zone structures to navigating regulatory requirements across Emirates, the UAE offers a variety of options for business owners, investors and entrepreneurs.
Auxilium steps in to simplify the process so you can focus on growth.
mainland, free zone, or offshore
and select your legal structure
and receive initial approval
(MoA, lease agreements, etc.)
from the appropriate authority
(physical or flexi-desk)
for shareholders, employees, and dependents
Choosing the right legal structure is key to your success in the UAE. Here are the most common options:
Operate anywhere in the UAE and do business throughout the country with ease. Full foreign ownership is now permitted in most sectors.
Ideal for trading, tech, and consulting businesses. Enjoy 100% ownership, low to no corporate tax, simplified reporting, and fast-track setup within designated free zones.
Expand your global presence in the UAE while maintaining full parent company ownership.
Comprehensive Business Setup & Compliance Support
Managed the selection, recruitment and onboarding of 2,000+ employees for an infrastructure management company.
Provided onboarding, administrative, and payroll management services for over 500 catering and hospitality staff.
Sourced 400+ hospitality and front-of- house staff for a Big 5 hotel group during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Managed the selection, training, testing and deployment of a client’s multi-skilled workforce for the airport and aviation hubs in Dubai.
Mobilized 150 management employees for the main office of a major oil and gas company.
Yes. As of recent legal reforms, most mainland and all free zone companies allow 100% foreign ownership.
Mainland companies can do business anywhere in the UAE and with the government. Free zone companies enjoy faster setup and tax advantages but may need a local distributor to trade onshore.
One of the key benefits of a GCC Employer of Record is that they can handle the post hiring and onboarding of employees in the GCC region. This includes preparing and submitting employment contracts, visas, and other required documents. The GCC EOR will also manage payroll and benefits administration for employees, including calculating and processing salaries and benefits, and withholding and remitting taxes and other deductions.
Another important responsibility of a GCC Employer of Record is ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations. The GCC Employer of Record will help companies navigate the complexities of employment compliance in the GCC region, including laws related to minimum wage, working hours, leave entitlements, and other rights and benefits for employees. By ensuring compliance, businesses can avoid costly penalties and legal issues that could arise from non-compliance.
In most sectors, no. Local sponsors are no longer mandatory for many professional and commercial licenses. We’ll assess your business activity and advise accordingly.
Costs vary based on jurisdiction, license type, office requirements, and visa needs. Please feel free to get in touch for a custom quote.
Yes, but this can range from a flexi-desk in a free zone to a full commercial lease in mainland.
The number of visas depends on your office size and license type. Free zones have visa quotas, while mainland companies are more flexible.
Yes, though banks have strict KYC requirements. We assist with the documentation, application process, and bank introductions to ease the journey.
Some free zone setups can be done remotely. However, for mainland companies and visa issuance, a UAE visit is typically required at some point
Yes. As of June 2023, a 9% corporate tax applies to mainland companies earning over AED 375,000 in annual profit. Free zone companies may continue to benefit from 0% tax if they meet qualifying criteria.
With its investor-friendly climate, tax advantages, and strategic location, the UAE is a magnet for global businesses. Whether you’re testing the market or establishing a long-term presence, Auxilium offers hands-on support through every stage of your journey. Speak to one of our experts today.
