UAE LLC company formation

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UAE mainland LLC offers 100% foreign ownership, no personal income tax, and full access to one of the world's most dynamic markets — including eligibility for government contracts. Setup typically takes four to six weeks.

Legarithm handles the entire process — from activity selection and documentation to license issuance and bank account opening.

UAE 9

Why a UAE LLC still makes sense in 2026

Advantages

The UAE remains a pro‑business hub with real advantages: fast processing, modern infrastructure, and a rules‑based system you can actually work with. In Dubai, an LLC is the default choice for founders who want to sell into the local market, hire staff, and open a proper bank account. It’s familiar to banks, landlords, and regulators, and it adapts well as your company grows.

Mainland vs free zone vs offshore

Before you rush into company formation in Dubai, decide where the business will legally live. “Mainland” means licensed by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). “Free zone” means licensed inside a specific zone with its own registrar. “Offshore” is a holding or international trading vehicle that does not carry on business in the UAE.

Quick comparison at a glance

Feature Mainland LLC Free zone LLC Offshore company
Ownership Up to 100% foreign ownership in most sectors; some strategic activities restricted 100% foreign ownership 100% foreign ownership
Where you can trade Anywhere in the UAE and abroad Inside the zone and internationally; mainland trading needs a distributor, branch, or dual licence Outside the UAE only
Corporate tax 9% above AED 375,000 0% for qualifying free zone entities/qualifying income; 9% otherwise Generally out of scope unless UAE‑sourced income
Office Physical office or approved flexi desk (Ejari/zone lease) Office/flexi desk inside the zone Registered address only
Visas Quota linked to office size Quota set by zone and space No visas (usually)
Best for Local services, retail, contracting, B2B Cross‑border services, tech, media, light industrial, logistics, holding Asset holding, international trading outside the UAE

Step‑by‑step LLC company formation in Dubai mainland

  • Step 01

    Set your business activity first

    The licence type flows from it. The DET list covers over 2,000 activities across commercial, professional, and industrial buckets. If you pick the wrong one, you will feel it later during external approvals, banking, and audits.

  • Step 02

    Trade name

    Reserve the trade name and obtain initial approval from DET.

  • Step 03

    Company papers

    Draft and notarize your Memorandum and Articles of Association.

  • Step 04

    Office

    Secure an office lease with Ejari.

  • Step 05

    Final papers

    Submit final documents, pay fees, and receive your trade licence.

  • Step 06

    Establishment card

    Obtain your establishment card at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), open the immigration file, and proceed with visas and bank onboarding.

We Are Always Available

Our team ensures your business setup is smooth, efficient, and compliant with local laws. Contact us today to discuss your project.

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