01
Mainland company
Explore a locally licensed operating business, with activity and premises requirements set by the relevant emirate.
Build your business in the UAE
Business Setup in the UAE
Choose a company structure that fits your customers, operating plans and budget. MNK Business Group helps you compare mainland, free zone and offshore routes, then organise the steps to launch.
Start with how your business will operate
The best setup begins with your business model. A consultant working with overseas clients, a retailer serving customers in Dubai and a company holding international investments have different requirements. The lowest advertised licence price may not cover the permissions, facilities or banking profile you need.
02
Free zone company
Compare the permitted activities, workspace, visa arrangements and market access of individual free zones.
03
Offshore company
Assess a structure for permitted international or holding purposes. It is not a substitute for an operating licence or a residence visa.
Four decisions that shape the setup
- Activity: describe what the business will actually do, including regulated work or product categories.
- Market: identify where clients, stock, staff and premises will be located.
- Ownership: confirm the shareholders, manager and ultimate beneficial owners.
- Budget: compare the full first-year and renewal costs, including visas and required facilities.
From enquiry to a practical launch plan
01
Define the business
We clarify what you will sell, where your customers are, who will own the company and whether you need premises or residence visas.
02
Compare the route
Review the activity, legal form, authority requirements and a written estimate that separates authority charges from professional support.
03
Prepare and submit
Organise the application and supporting documents, resolve authority queries and track the approval stages.
04
Plan the next steps
After incorporation, arrange the applicable immigration, banking and tax work. Each has its own eligibility checks and timeline.
Know what your quote includes
A starting licence price is only one part of a business setup budget. Ask for a written scope covering the authority fees, workspace, immigration file, visa processing and MNK service fee relevant to your application. Confirm renewal costs as well as the first year.
Fees and processing times depend on the activity, owners, premises, visa requirements and approvals. Bank accounts and visas remain subject to the relevant institution’s decision. Request a current, itemised quotation before making a commitment.
Frequently asked questions
Can I complete the setup remotely?
Some application stages can be handled remotely. Identity checks, document signing, medical screening, biometrics or bank onboarding may still require your presence. We will explain the requirements for the route you select.
Does a licence include a residence visa?
A licence and a residence visa are separate. A package may include visa eligibility, an allocation or some processing charges. Check the exact inclusions and the applicant’s eligibility in the written quotation.
Will a corporate bank account be guaranteed?
No. Banks carry out their own customer and business checks. MNK can help prepare the application and supporting documents, but the bank controls approval, account terms and timing.
Official guidance
Make your next step a clear one
Tell us your activity, goals and timeline. MNK can help organise a suitable scope and current quotation.