Mainland vs Freezone Company Formation
We recommend the most suitable legal structure to our clients based on their core business requirements and investment budget.
Mainland Company vs Free Zone Company
Choose the right legal option that works for your business!
Unlike a mainland company, a free zone company is set up within a designated jurisdiction in an Emirate, governed by a Free Zone Authority that issues trade licenses. In contrast, mainland company licenses are issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED). Free zones in the UAE offer advantages like full foreign ownership and tax incentives.
However, a free zone company is restricted to operating within its zone and internationally, while a mainland company can do business throughout the UAE as well as abroad.
Mainland and Free Zone Licenses features comparison
Compare UAE mainland and free zones business setup features and pick the one that's right for you
| Features | Free Zone License | Mainland License |
|---|---|---|
| Company ownership | 100% foreign ownership | When the activity is listed in DED's approved activities list, foreign ownership is 100%. For strategic activities, UE/GCC shareholders must hold 51% of the shares |
| Business scope | Within free zones and internationally | Inside UAE and internationally |
| Minimum share capital | Starting from AED 10,000. Each free zone has its own requirements for proof and amount | No standard requirement, determined by the legal structure |
| Company setup procedure | 100% remote | Physical presence of shareholder(s) or POA is required |
| Business setup time | 3-15 days | 5-21 days |
| Work premises | Office facilities are required for all free zone businesses. In almost all free zones Virtual offices options are available | Minimum of 140 sq.m. office space is required |
| Import/ export duties | No exemption | Free zone companies are allowed to import and export goods to other countries without customs duties |
| Financial audits | Depending on a free zone | Mandatory for all businesses |
| Corporate bank account | Starting from 3 weeks | Within 2-3 weeks |
| Visa eligibility | In most free zones up to 6 visas are allocated under 1 business activity | With sufficient office space visas eligibility can be unlimited |
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Investbizcsp is here to assist you with selecting the ideal location, corporate structure, and best facilities for your business setup in Dubai.
Why Investbizcsp
Get in touch today for a customized proposal and detailed pricing for your Dubai business setup.
By choosing Investbiz CSP, you’re partnering with a trusted firm that prioritizes your success and offers unmatched support in setting up your business in Dubai, UAE. Here’s why we are the right choice for your Dubai business setup.
Award-Winning Consultants
Our team consists of industry-leading experts, renowned for their excellence in business consultancy across Dubai. Backed by numerous awards, we take pride in delivering exceptional service and measurable results.
Over 15 Years of Experience
With over 15 years of industry experience, we possess in-depth knowledge of Dubai’s market dynamics, regulatory landscape, and the complexities of business setup. This expertise allows us to provide our clients with strategic advice and insightful guidance every step of the way.
High Approval and Success Rate
We proudly maintain an exceptional approval and success rate, showcasing our dedication to delivering successful outcomes for our clients. Our proven track record highlights our reliability and efficiency in managing business setups across Dubai and the UAE.
End-to-End Management
From the initial consultation to the completion of your business setup in Dubai, we handle every stage of the process. Our end-to-end services cover all aspects of company formation, enabling you to concentrate on your core business while we take care of the administrative and legal requirements.
Dedicated Account Manager
Every client is assigned a dedicated account manager who acts as a single point of contact throughout the entire business setup process in Dubai and the UAE. This personalized approach ensures your unique needs are fully understood and that any questions or concerns are addressed promptly and efficiently.
Extensive Network and Partnerships
Our extensive network and strong partnerships with key stakeholders in the UAE—including government authorities, financial institutions, and industry associations—give our clients a strategic edge. These connections enable us to streamline processes and offer valuable opportunities that support and accelerate your business growth.
How can we help?
Backed by over 16 years of expertise, we support you through every step of establishing your company in the Dubai South Free Zone
Understanding how valuable our clients’ time is, we ensure a hassle-free UAE Residence Visa process by offering hotel pick-up, transportation to government authorities, and drop-off back at their hotels eliminating the stress of managing medical tests and document submissions on their own.
The benefits of working with us that you can’t miss:
Our experienced and dependable team brings in-depth knowledge of local laws and regulations, along with strong relationships with UAE authorities, top free zones, and both local and international banks. We’ll guide you through every step of setting up your company in the DWTC, delivering highly personalized support to help you succeed in the UAE.
We're here to support your success in the UAE.
Reach out to our experts to start a successful business in the UAE.