UAE operations

UAE business setup: expert support to start and grow your company

UAE business setup with TGS Innovised: company formation, PRO and tax services

UAE business setup is simpler when one team handles every step. The UAE links Europe, Asia and Africa, and it also offers a business-friendly legal system with competitive tax rates. First, our UAE team helps you choose the right company structure and completes the formation. After that, we open your bank account and keep you compliant with visas, VAT and corporate tax.

Taxonomy Business is now part of TGS Innovised All activities relating to “Taxonomy Global Business Advisory” have been merged into TGS Innovised as of November 2026.

Company formation
Operating in the UAE
UAE tax
FAQ

UAE business setup: choose your company type

There are three ways to set up a company in the UAE: on the mainland, in a free zone or offshore. The right choice depends on where your customers are, the activities you need and how many visas you plan to apply for.

Company formation overview

Mainland, free zone or offshore compared, and how we guide you through each step.

Mainland company

Trade anywhere in the UAE and work with government entities.

Free zone company

Full foreign ownership, simple setup and zone-specific benefits.

Offshore company

A holding or asset-protection vehicle for international business.

Free zones we work with

Each free zone has its own costs, activities and visa rules, so we compare them for your business first.

IFZA

International Free Zone Authority, Dubai. Flexible packages for many activities.

Meydan Free Zone

A Dubai address with a fully digital setup process.

SPC Free Zone

Sharjah Publishing City. Cost-effective licences for media and trading.

Ajman Free Zone

Affordable setup in Ajman, where we are a registered agent.

Operating in the UAE

After your UAE business setup, your company needs a bank account, visas for your staff and a payroll that follows UAE labour law. We take care of the government paperwork, so you can focus on your business.

PRO services

Visas, Emirates ID, labour contracts and licence renewals.

Corporate banking

Opening a UAE business bank account: documents, steps and banks.

HR and payroll

Hiring, employment contracts and payroll for your UAE team.

UAE tax

Every new UAE company needs a clear tax plan. The UAE has a 5% VAT and a 9% corporate tax on profits above AED 375,000. Most companies, including free zone companies, must register with the Federal Tax Authority. We handle the registration and the filings, and we also make sure you meet every deadline.

VAT and corporate tax registration

When you must register, what you need and how we do it for you.

VAT and tax filing

Returns, deadlines and record-keeping to avoid penalties.

Doing business across borders? See also our international tax, transfer pricing and accounting services.

Frequently asked questions

Should I choose a mainland or a free zone company?

Choose the mainland if you want to sell directly to customers anywhere in the UAE or work with government entities. A free zone suits businesses that trade internationally or mainly with other free zone companies. We compare both for your situation before you decide.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a UAE company?

Yes. Free zone companies are fully foreign-owned, and since 2021 most mainland activities also allow 100% foreign ownership, as the official UAE government portal explains. A small number of strategic activities still have restrictions.

Does my free zone company need to register for corporate tax?

Yes. All companies, including free zone companies, must register for corporate tax, even if they qualify for the 0% rate. VAT registration is mandatory once your taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 a year.

How long does a UAE business setup take?

It depends on the jurisdiction and your activity. A free zone can often issue your licence within a few days. Visas and the bank account usually take longer. We give you a clear timeline at the start.

Start your UAE business setup

Tell us about your plans and our UAE team will advise on the best structure and the next steps. Contact us for a first conversation.

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