Dubai Company Formation Cost 2026: Compare UAE Free Zone, Mainland & Residence Visa Prices

Are you planning to start a business in Dubai, register a company in the UAE, obtain a UAE residence visa, or open a corporate bank account?

FZM Solutions (FreeZoneMarket.ae) is a Dubai-based corporate services and business consultancy firm specializing in UAE company formation, Dubai business setup, Free Zone company registration, Mainland business licensing, investor visas, corporate banking assistance, accounting, VAT, and Corporate Tax compliance.

We assist international entrepreneurs, investors, consultants, freelancers, e-commerce businesses, trading companies, and SMEs seeking to establish their operations in the United Arab Emirates.

Whether you are considering IFZA Dubai, Meydan Free Zone, Ajman Free Zone, SHAMS, SPC Free Zone, RAKEZ, or DMCC, our business setup consultants help you compare jurisdictions, understand the costs, and select a suitable company formation package.

Why Choose FZM Solutions for Business Setup in Dubai?

• Transparent company formation pricing based on applicable Free Zone authority charges.

• Zero agent fees for eligible Free Zone company registration and license renewal services.

• Free assistance with UAE corporate bank account applications.

• Company formation solutions across Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah.

• Investor, partner, employee, and family residence visa assistance.

• Corporate Tax, VAT, bookkeeping, accounting, and audit coordination.

• Professional assistance in English, French, and Arabic.

• Dedicated support for business license renewals and ongoing corporate administration.

Get a free UAE business setup quotation and compare the best company formation packages for your business.

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Company in Dubai in 2026?

The cost of company formation in Dubai depends on several factors, including the business jurisdiction, trade license activities, number of shareholders, visa requirements, and office facilities.

A Free Zone company without a residence visa is often an affordable option for entrepreneurs who want to establish a UAE legal entity without immediately relocating.

A Dubai Mainland company may be more suitable for businesses that need to conduct certain activities directly in the UAE local market, open physical retail premises, or obtain sector-specific approvals.

UAE Free Zone Company Formation Price Comparison 2026

All prices are indicative and subject to the applicable authority tariffs, eligibility requirements, business activities, and package inclusions.

What Determines Dubai Business Setup Costs?

When comparing UAE company registration packages, consider the following:

1. Initial business license and company incorporation fees.

2. Annual trade license renewal costs.

3. Immigration Establishment Card charges.

4. Investor or employee residence visa costs.

5. Emirates ID and medical examination fees.

6. Registered office, flexi-desk, or physical office requirements.

7. Corporate bank account documentation.

8. Accounting, VAT, Corporate Tax, and regulatory compliance obligations.

FZM Solutions compares both the initial incorporation cost and long-term company maintenance expenses, allowing entrepreneurs to make informed decisions.

IFZA Dubai Company Formation Cost: From AED 12,900

IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) is a Dubai Free Zone offering company formation solutions for international entrepreneurs, consultants, trading companies, and professional service providers.

Located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, IFZA provides various business licensing options for companies operating in the UAE and international markets.

IFZA Dubai Business Setup Fees

FZM visa processing fees are quoted separately. The final price depends on the selected company formation package and immigration requirements.

Benefits of Setting Up a Company in IFZA Dubai

• Company registration in Dubai.

• Up to 100% foreign ownership.

• Multiple professional, commercial, and consulting activities.

• Investor and employee residence visa options.

• Business structures suitable for international operations.

• Corporate banking and tax compliance assistance from FZM Solutions.

Who Should Choose IFZA?

IFZA may be suitable for:

• Business management consultants.

• International trading companies.

• Digital marketing agencies.

• Technology and IT service providers.

• Professional consultancy firms.

• International entrepreneurs and eligible holding structures.

Contact FZM Solutions for an IFZA Dubai company formation quotation.

Meydan Free Zone Company Formation: From AED 12,500

Meydan Free Zone offers Dubai-based company registration solutions for entrepreneurs, consultants, e-commerce businesses, and professional service providers.

It can be suitable for international investors seeking a Dubai trade license with access to eligible UAE residence visa services.

Meydan Free Zone Business Setup Prices

Why Choose Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan may be suitable for entrepreneurs requiring a Dubai-issued license for activities such as:

• Management consulting.

• Marketing consultancy.

• E-commerce.

• Professional services.

• International trading.

• Business support services.

FZM Solutions assists with activity selection, company incorporation, trade license issuance, visa applications, and corporate bank account preparation.

IFZA or Meydan Free Zone? Request a personalized comparison of company setup costs, annual renewal fees, and residence visa requirements.

Ajman Free Zone Company Formation – From AED 4,888

Ajman Free Zone offers one of the most competitively priced company formation options in the UAE under the indicative packages presented by FZM Solutions.

Located in the Emirate of Ajman, this jurisdiction provides commercial, professional, industrial, and e-commerce licensing solutions.

Ajman can be particularly attractive to entrepreneurs who want to establish a UAE company while managing their initial incorporation and ongoing operational costs.

Ajman Free Zone Company Setup Packages 2026

The AED 10,888 package is an indicative FZM offer. Visa validity, eligibility, renewal inclusions, immigration charges, and the number of shareholders must be confirmed in the final quotation.

Why Set Up a Company in Ajman Free Zone?

1. Affordable UAE Company Formation

Ajman offers cost-effective company registration options for startups, consultants, and small businesses.

Its indicative zero-visa package starts from AED 4,888, while selected company formation packages with residence visa benefits start from AED 10,888.

2. 100% Foreign Ownership

Eligible foreign investors can establish a company without a local shareholder, subject to the applicable licensing regulations.

3. Multiple Business License Activities

Ajman Free Zone provides licensing solutions for commercial trading, professional services, e-commerce, and certain industrial activities.

4. Digital Company Registration

Many company incorporation procedures can be completed remotely, subject to identity verification and authority requirements.

Medical examinations, Emirates ID biometrics, and certain immigration procedures may require physical presence in the UAE.

5. Strategic Location

Ajman benefits from its proximity to Sharjah and Dubai, as well as access to commercial and transportation infrastructure.

6. UAE Residence Visa Opportunities

Eligible investors, shareholders, and employees may apply for residence visas through their companies.

Ajman Free Zone vs IFZA vs Meydan: Which Is Better?

Which UAE Free Zone Should You Choose?

Ajman Free Zone may be preferable when the main objective is to reduce initial business setup costs.

IFZA and Meydan may be more appropriate when having a Dubai-issued trade license is an important requirement.

The most suitable jurisdiction depends on your business activity, budget, residency requirements, banking profile, and long-term expansion plans.

Request your free Ajman vs IFZA vs Meydan company formation comparison.

SHAMS Free Zone – Company Setup From AED 5,750

Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) offers company registration solutions for entrepreneurs, freelancers, digital businesses, and professional service providers.

Business Activities Suitable for SHAMS

• Media production and content creation.

• Marketing and advertising.

• Freelance consultancy.

• Digital business services.

• Professional consultancy.

• Selected online business activities.

SHAMS may be suitable for entrepreneurs looking for an affordable UAE business license without immediately applying for a residence visa.

Additional immigration and administrative charges may apply.

SPC Free Zone: Company Formation From AED 6,875

Sharjah Publishing City (SPC Free Zone) offers business setup solutions for commercial and professional activities.

It can be suitable for:

• E-commerce companies.

• General and specialized trading.

• Publishing and media.

• Business consultancy.

• Marketing services.

• Professional service providers.

SPC may provide an affordable alternative to Dubai Free Zones for eligible business activities.

The final cost depends on the trade license package, visa requirements, and additional services.

RAKEZ Free Zone: Business Setup in Ras Al Khaimah

RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone) provides company formation solutions for commercial, industrial, logistics, and professional businesses.

Why Choose RAKEZ?

RAKEZ may be suitable for companies requiring:

• Commercial trading licenses.

• Warehousing and storage facilities.

• Manufacturing premises.

• Logistics and distribution operations.

• Professional services.

• Industrial business infrastructure.

The source pricing lists a starting package from AED 12,020 and separately references a basic single-activity package at AED 12,520. Package eligibility and the applicable price should be confirmed.

Contact FZM Solutions for a personalized RAKEZ company formation quotation.

DMCC Free Zone: Company Formation in Dubai JLT

DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) is an established Free Zone located in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai.

It may be suitable for companies operating in international trade, commodities, professional services, and other commercial sectors.

Benefits of DMCC Company Formation

• Established business ecosystem in Dubai.

• Office and commercial facilities in JLT.

• Licensing options for various trading and service activities.

• Access to professional networks and business infrastructure.

• Suitable environment for certain international business structures.

DMCC company registration costs are generally higher than the entry-level packages available in some other UAE Free Zones.

FZM Solutions, based in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, assists with DMCC incorporation, license renewals, corporate compliance, and administrative services.

DMCC company formation prices are available on request.

Dubai Mainland Company Formation Cost

A Dubai Mainland LLC may be suitable for businesses that want to operate directly in the UAE domestic market, establish retail premises, or undertake activities requiring Mainland licenses.

Dubai Mainland Business Setup Requirements

The company formation process may involve:

• Trade name reservation.

• Initial approval.

• Business license issuance.

• Memorandum of Association.

• Commercial premises and Ejari, where required.

• Immigration Establishment Card.

• Investor and employee visas.

• Additional approvals for regulated activities.

The total Mainland company formation cost depends on the business activity, licensing requirements, office location, and required approvals.

Contact FZM Solutions for a Dubai Mainland business setup quotation.

UAE Residence Visa Through Company Formation

Setting up a company in Dubai or another UAE Free Zone may allow eligible investors, shareholders, and employees to apply for UAE residence visas.

Types of UAE Residence Visas

• Investor or partner visa.

• Employment residence visa.

• Family residence visa.

• Dependent residence visa.

UAE Residence Visa Application Process

1. Prepare the immigration application.

2. Apply for the relevant entry permit or immigration authorization.

3. Complete the status change process, if necessary.

4. Undertake the required medical examination.

5. Complete Emirates ID registration and biometrics.

6. Obtain the residence permit.

Visa validity, processing costs, and eligibility requirements depend on the applicable immigration category and jurisdiction.

FZM Solutions provides residence visa assistance from application preparation through the final immigration procedures.

Corporate Bank Account Opening in Dubai

Opening a UAE corporate bank account is an important step for entrepreneurs establishing companies in Dubai, Ajman, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah.

Banks typically assess:

• Business activities.

• Shareholder identities and professional backgrounds.

• Source of funds.

• Expected business turnover.

• Customers and suppliers.

• Countries of operation.

• Supporting business documentation.

• Economic substance and operating arrangements.

Free Business Banking Assistance

FZM Solutions provides free corporate bank account application assistance to eligible clients.

Our consultants assist with preparing company documents, understanding banking requirements, and communicating with financial institutions.

All applications remain subject to the bank's internal compliance procedures and approval.

UAE Corporate Tax, VAT and Accounting Services

Establishing a company in Dubai or another UAE Free Zone also involves tax and compliance responsibilities.

UAE Corporate Tax

Under the general UAE Corporate Tax regime:

• 0% applies to the first AED 375,000 of taxable income.

• 9% applies to taxable income above AED 375,000.

Qualifying Free Zone Persons may benefit from a 0% Corporate Tax rate on qualifying income when the applicable conditions are met.

A UAE Free Zone company is not automatically exempt from Corporate Tax.

UAE VAT Registration

The standard VAT rate in the UAE is 5%.

Mandatory VAT registration generally applies when taxable supplies and imports exceed AED 375,000 under the relevant threshold rules.

Voluntary VAT registration may be available from AED 187,500 where the applicable conditions are satisfied.

Accounting and Tax Compliance Services

FZM Solutions provides:

• Accounting and bookkeeping.

• Financial statement preparation.

• Corporate Tax registration.

• Corporate Tax return filing.

• VAT registration and filing.

• Audit coordination.

• Regulatory compliance support.

Why Choose FZM Solutions for UAE Company Formation?

Zero Agent Fees for Eligible Free Zone Company Registration

FZM Solutions offers eligible Free Zone company incorporation and annual license renewal services without additional agent fees.

Government charges, visa processing, and separately requested professional services may apply.

Transparent Company Formation Pricing

We provide quotations outlining the applicable authority charges and any additional services required.

One Point of Contact for Your UAE Business

Our team assists entrepreneurs with company incorporation, residence visas, corporate banking documentation, trade license renewals, and ongoing administration.

Multilingual Business Setup Assistance

FZM Solutions supports international clients in English, French, and Arabic.

Personalized Business Setup Advice

We do not automatically recommend the cheapest Free Zone.

Instead, we compare jurisdictions based on your business activities, budget, commercial objectives, visa requirements, and banking considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions – Dubai Company Formation

What is the minimum cost to start a company in Dubai?

Under the indicative packages presented here, a Dubai-issued Free Zone business license starts from approximately AED 12,500. Lower-cost company registration packages may be available in other emirates, including Ajman and Sharjah.

What is the cheapest Free Zone in the UAE?

The cheapest Free Zone depends on the business activity, package, visa requirements, and current promotions. The indicative Ajman Free Zone zero-visa package starts from AED 4,888.

How much does it cost to set up a UAE company with a residence visa?

The total cost depends on the trade license, immigration fees, Emirates ID, medical examination, and visa processing requirements. FZM offers an indicative Ajman Free Zone company formation package with residency from AED 10,888.

Can I register a company in Dubai without living in the UAE?

Yes. Certain UAE Free Zone companies can be registered by non-resident shareholders, subject to the jurisdiction's incorporation and identity verification requirements.

Can I open a UAE business bank account without a residence visa?

This may be possible depending on the bank, company structure, and shareholder profile. Non-resident applications may face additional documentation and compliance requirements.

What is the difference between IFZA and Meydan Free Zone?

Both are Dubai-based Free Zone jurisdictions. They differ in licensing packages, available business activities, visa requirements, and administrative procedures.

Is Ajman Free Zone cheaper than IFZA Dubai?

Ajman may offer lower entry-level licensing costs, depending on the package. The total cost comparison should include visas, annual renewals, immigration charges, and the services included.

How much does it cost to renew a company license in Dubai?

Renewal fees vary by jurisdiction and license package. For example, the indicative IFZA zero-visa license renewal price is approximately AED 12,900, subject to applicable conditions.

Can foreigners own 100% of a company in Dubai?

Yes. Full foreign ownership is permitted for UAE Free Zone companies and many Mainland business activities, subject to relevant legal restrictions.

Do UAE Free Zone companies pay Corporate Tax?

UAE Free Zone companies are subject to the Corporate Tax framework. A 0% rate may apply to qualifying income when the required conditions are met.

How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?

Processing times vary depending on the jurisdiction, business activities, compliance requirements, and completeness of the application. Residence visa and banking procedures require additional processing.

Which Free Zone is best for an e-commerce company in the UAE?

IFZA, Meydan, SPC, SHAMS, and Ajman may offer suitable licensing options depending on the products, target markets, logistics requirements, and business structure.

What documents are required for Dubai company formation?

Typical requirements include passport copies, shareholder information, proposed company names, business activities, and additional documents requested by the licensing authority.

Can I establish a UAE company remotely?

Many Free Zone company formation procedures can be completed remotely, subject to identity verification and the authority's requirements. Certain residence visa procedures require physical presence in the UAE.

Get Your Free Dubai Company Formation Quotation

Compare IFZA, Meydan, Ajman Free Zone, SHAMS, SPC, RAKEZ, and DMCC before starting your UAE business.

Our consultants review your business activities, budget, shareholder structure, residence visa requirements, and corporate banking needs to recommend a suitable company formation package.