How Much Does It Cost to Start a Business in Dubai in 2026
A clear 2026 breakdown of what you actually pay to launch a company in Dubai, from licence fees to visas, office and bank account costs.
Starting a business in Dubai in 2026 costs between AED 12,500 and AED 50,000 for most activities, depending on jurisdiction, visa count and office choice. This guide gives you the real numbers so you can plan with confidence.
Free zone company cost in Dubai
A Dubai free zone licence starts at AED 12,500 for a zero-visa package in zones like IFZA and Meydan Free Zone. Add roughly AED 3,500 to AED 6,000 per residence visa, including medical, Emirates ID and visa stamping. A flexi-desk is usually included; a dedicated office raises the cost by AED 15,000 to AED 40,000 per year.
- Trade licence: AED 5,750 to AED 15,000 per year
- Establishment card and e-channel: AED 1,500 to AED 2,500
- Residence visa per person: AED 3,500 to AED 6,000
- Share capital: usually no deposit required at licence stage
Read our full guide on the best Dubai free zone options and pricing for a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction comparison.
Dubai mainland company cost
Mainland setup through the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) starts at around AED 18,500 for a professional licence and AED 22,000 for a commercial licence. You get 100 percent foreign ownership on most activities since 2021, so no local sponsor is required.
- Initial approval and trade name: AED 1,500
- DET licence fee: AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 per year
- Ejari (office tenancy registration): required before issuance
- Chamber of Commerce membership: AED 1,200 to AED 2,500
If you plan to serve the UAE domestic market or bid on government contracts, see our Dubai mainland setup page for the exact process.
Offshore company cost
Offshore vehicles like JAFZA Offshore and RAK ICC cost AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 per year. They cannot trade inside the UAE and cannot issue residence visas, so they suit holding structures and international trade, not local operations. Full detail on our UAE offshore page.
Hidden costs most consultants skip
- Corporate bank account opening: AED 0 to AED 25,000 depending on the bank and the complexity of your file. We cover this on our bank account page.
- Attestation of foreign documents: AED 150 to AED 2,000 per document.
- Corporate tax registration (9 percent above AED 375,000 profit): free to register, mandatory from first year.
- VAT registration (5 percent, mandatory above AED 375,000 turnover): free to register.
Total realistic budget
Zero-visa free zone shell: AED 12,500. Free zone with 1 visa: AED 18,000. Mainland LLC with 2 visas and a desk: AED 35,000 to AED 45,000. Numbers rise if you need multiple visas, physical warehousing or regulated activities such as financial services.
Want a quote tailored to your activity? Try the Breeo cost calculator or talk to our team.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to open a company in Dubai?
The cheapest route is a zero-visa free zone package from AED 12,500 per year through zones like IFZA, Meydan Free Zone or SPC Free Zone in Sharjah. These suit consultants and online businesses that do not need UAE residency immediately.
Do I need a local sponsor to start a business in Dubai?
No. Since 2021 most mainland activities allow 100 percent foreign ownership. Only a short list of strategic activities still requires an Emirati partner.
Are there annual renewal costs?
Yes. Trade licence, establishment card and office tenancy renew yearly. Expect roughly 80 to 100 percent of the first-year cost.
How long does Dubai company setup take?
Free zone companies issue in 3 to 7 working days. Mainland LLCs take 5 to 10 working days once Ejari is in place. Bank account opening adds 10 to 20 working days.