The UAE offers a business-friendly environment with multiple setup options. Typing centers guide entrepreneurs through the registration process, prepare all required documents and liaise with DED, free zone authorities and municipalities.
Types of Business Setup
Mainland Company (DED)
A mainland license issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) allows you to operate anywhere in UAE and work directly with government entities. Typing centers prepare the trade name reservation, MoA, initial approval and final license application.
Free Zone Company
UAE has over 40 free zones offering 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax and simplified setup. Each zone has its own authority and documentation requirements. Typing centers are familiar with JAFZA, DMCC, IFZA, SHAMS and other major free zones.
Offshore Company
For international trading, asset holding and tax planning, an offshore company in RAK or Ajman may be suitable. Typing centers prepare the incorporation documents and coordinate with the offshore authority.
How Long Does Business Setup Take in UAE?
- Mainland (DED): 3–7 working days for initial approval; 1–2 additional weeks for final license
- Free Zone: 1–5 working days depending on the zone (IFZA and SHAMS are fastest)
- Offshore: 3–5 working days
Approximate Costs
These are government and authority fees — typing center service fees are additional.
- DED trade license: AED 10,000–15,000/year depending on activity
- Free zone package (IFZA/SHAMS): from AED 5,750/year
- Offshore (RAK/Ajman): from AED 8,000
Confirm current fees with your typing center as these change annually.
Business Setup Documents
Trade Name Registration
Reserve your company name with DED or the relevant free zone authority. Typing centers check name availability and submit the reservation application.
Memorandum of Association (MoA)
Defines shareholder structure, share capital and company activities. Required for all mainland companies and most free zone setups. Notarized and attested by the relevant authority.
Initial Approval & Activity Classification
Business activities must be correctly classified according to UAE licensing categories. Typing centers ensure the right activity codes are applied to avoid issues at renewal.
Ejari (Office Registration)
A physical address is mandatory for most business licenses. Typing centers register your office tenancy with Ejari and prepare the required tenancy documentation.
Visa Quota & Employee Visas
New businesses receive a visa quota based on office size. Typing centers process the first batch of employment visas and advise on optimizing your quota.
Start Your Business in UAE
Find typing centers offering business setup services in your emirate: