What are the common business structures to setup a business in Dubai and UAE mainland?

The common structures for mainland business setup in Dubai include Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) for small to medium-sized enterprises and branches of foreign companies. Larger enterprises can opt for Public or Private Joint Stock Companies.

Can foreigners own 100% of a mainland company in the UAE?

Yes, foreigners are allowed for setting up a business in Dubai and the UAE with 100% full ownership, based on the provisions of Federal Decree-Law no. (32) of 2021. However, specific activities may require a local partner.

What are the types of licenses in Dubai and UAE mainland?

The main types of licenses in Dubai and UAE mainland include: Commercial license for trading and e-commerce, Industrial license for manufacturing or processing, Professional license for service providers, and Tourism license for hospitality and tourism-related businesses.

What is the minimum share capital requirement for a mainland company?

Share capital requirements vary based on the business activity and the emirate in which the company is established. It is typically specified during the licensing process.

How long does it take to setup a mainland company in Dubai mainland?

The timeline depends on factors like business activity, required approvals, and document preparation. Generally, it can be completed within 2 to 4 weeks.

How many Free Zones are there in Dubai?

Dubai has over twenty Free Zones, each catering to a specific industry. Some of them include DAFZA, JAFZA, DMCC, IFZA, and others.

Who can opt for business setup in Dubai Free Zone?

Both local and foreign investors are welcome. Foreign investors can have complete ownership without needing a local sponsor.

What kinds of companies are permitted to open in a free zone in Dubai?

Trading, manufacturing, technology, media, healthcare, and logistics are just a few of the enterprises that can be formed in Dubai free zones. Each free zone is often focused on a specific sector.

What types of businesses can be set up in Dubai Free Zones?

Dubai Free Zones support industries such as trading, IT, fintech, logistics, healthcare, manufacturing, and consultancy, ensuring a versatile and globally competitive business environment.

Do I need a local sponsor for a business setup in Dubai Free Zone?

No, foreign investors retain 100% ownership without an Emirati partner or local sponsorship.

How long does the Dubai Free Zone business setup process take?

The incorporation process typically takes 7 to 14 business days, depending on the specific free zone regulations and document submission.

Can I open a corporate bank account for my UAE Free Zone company?

Yes, once your business license is issued, you can open a corporate bank account in the UAE, subject to compliance verification.

Are there renewal requirements for Dubai Free Zone business licenses?

Yes, companies must renew their free zone business licenses annually and maintain compliance with UAE regulatory standards.

What are the main free zones in Abu Dhabi?

Key free zones include Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), twofour54, Khalifa Industrial Zone (KIZAD), and Masdar City Free Zone, each catering to unique business sectors.

Can foreigners own 100% of companies in Abu Dhabi free zones?

Yes, foreign investors are allowed 100% ownership when incorporating within Abu Dhabi free zones without the need for a local sponsor.

How long does it take to establish a company in ADGM?

Typically, it takes between 10 to 15 working days, depending on the approval process and the submission of required documentation.

What is an offshore company in the UAE?

An offshore company in the UAE allows investors to operate internationally while benefiting from tax exemptions and asset protection without needing a physical office in the UAE.

What are the main offshore jurisdictions in the UAE?

The key jurisdictions are Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) and JAFZA Offshore.

Can an offshore company open a UAE bank account?

Yes, offshore companies can open UAE bank accounts after compliance verification, subject to bank approval.

What is a RAK ICC Foundation?

A RAK ICC Foundation is a legal entity designed for asset protection, estate planning, and wealth management under the laws of Ras Al Khaimah, UAE.

Can a foreign national create a foundation in RAK ICC?

Yes, foreign nationals can establish a RAK ICC foundation for personal or corporate asset protection and succession planning.

What is a Cloud Special Economic Zone?

It is a dedicated innovation and technology-driven free zone that allows IT and digital enterprises to scale operations seamlessly with flexible licensing models.

What are the benefits of setting up in a Cloud SEZ?

Key benefits include 100% ownership, tax advantages, data hosting privileges, and proximity to advanced infrastructure.

What is Jazan Special Economic Zone?

Jazan Special Economic Zone in Saudi Arabia focuses on industrial and logistics investments with tax incentives and infrastructure near the Red Sea port.

Can foreign companies register in Jazan SEZ?

Yes, Jazan SEZ allows 100% foreign ownership for approved industrial and logistics sectors under Saudi investment regulations.

Where is King Abdullah Economic City located?

King Abdullah Economic City is located on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, north of Jeddah, offering strategic access to regional markets.

What sectors operate in KAEC?

KAEC hosts logistics, manufacturing, maritime, and service industries, supported by modern infrastructure and SEZ benefits.

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Secure Your UAE Legacy A Guide for Non-Resident Investors

Secure Your UAE Legacy
A Guide for Non-Resident Investors

Protecting your international assets should not be restricted by your physical location. Whether you hold real estate, corporate shares, or liquid capital in the UAE, the Gatestone Group provides a streamlined pathway to register your Last Will and Testament from anywhere in the world.

Why Register a Will?

Navigating the 2025-2026 regulatory landscape requires expert coordination to ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes. By utilizing DIFC Common Law principles, you gain a legal “opt-out” from local forced heirship rules, granting you total control over the distribution of your assets.

Global Accessibility and Remote Registration

No Residency Required

Foreign investors and non-residents can now register their wills without an Emirates ID.

Digital Sovereignty

Manage your entire legacy through an online system without the need for a physical presence in the country.

Virtual Appointments

Official registration sessions are conducted via video conference for your convenience.

Passport Identification

For non-residents, a valid passport copy is the primary requirement for identification.

Your Registration Checklist

To begin the process, ensure you have the following ready for your high-resolution digital scans:

Identification

A clear copy of your valid passport.

Asset Details

Proof of assets held within the UAE, such as property deeds or share certificates.

Witnesses

Two witnesses are required and they may join your registration session online.

Registration Fees

Payment of the applicable fees to the Courts.

The Gatestone Group Advantage

We offer expert guidance on the latest DIFC and Dubai Court procedures to provide seamless coordination for your virtual appointments. Let our team assist you with comprehensive asset structuring designed specifically for foreign investors.