What is Relocate2UAE?

Relocate2UAE is an independent UAE relocation information platform founded by expats in Abu Dhabi. We provide free guides, tools, and verified partner connections for families and professionals moving to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other Emirates. We do not provide regulated relocation services ourselves.

Is Relocate2UAE completely free?

Yes. All guides, calculators, and relocation resources are free to access. We earn referral commissions from vetted partners, but users never pay us directly.

Who should use Relocate2UAE?

Families relocating for work, remote workers seeking UAE residency, entrepreneurs setting up companies, and professionals moving from the UK, Ireland, Europe, or the US.

Do you cover both Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

Yes. We cover all seven Emirates, with deep city-specific guidance for Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

How do you vet your partners?

Partners are vetted for licensing, reputation, and experience. This includes RERA, KHDA, ADEK, MOHRE, and GDRFA-regulated providers.

How current is your information?

Content is reviewed quarterly and updated for 2025. We monitor UAE government authorities and regulatory changes continuously.

Can expats buy property in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

Yes, expats can buy freehold property in designated areas. Dubai freehold areas include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, JBR, Palm Jumeirah, Arabian Ranches, and Dubai Hills Estate. Abu Dhabi freehold areas include Al Reem Island, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and Al Raha Beach. Property ownership grants eligibility for long-term residence visa (renewable). No restrictions on nationality for most freehold areas.

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Dubai?

Dubai rental prices vary by area. Studios: AED 25,000-60,000/year. 1-bedroom: AED 45,000-90,000/year. 2-bedroom: AED 70,000-140,000/year. 3-bedroom: AED 100,000-200,000/year. Premium areas (Dubai Marina, Downtown, JBR) are 30-50% more expensive than mid-range areas (Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai Sports City). Budget areas (International City, Discovery Gardens) offer 40-50% savings.

What is EJARI and do I need it?

EJARI is Dubai's mandatory rental contract registration system managed by Dubai Land Department (DLD). All Dubai rental agreements must be registered on EJARI within 48 hours of signing. Cost: AED 220 for registration. Required for: DEWA connection, Emirates ID application, school enrollment, and visa processing. Your landlord or agent typically handles EJARI registration. Keep EJARI certificate for all official procedures.

How do I pay rent in UAE - monthly or annually?

UAE rent is typically paid annually or in multiple cheques (2-4 payments). Most common: 1 cheque (full year, 5% discount), 2 cheques (every 6 months), 4 cheques (quarterly). Monthly payments are rare and usually cost 10-15% premium. Post-dated cheques are standard practice. Keep sufficient funds as bounced cheques are illegal in UAE. New tenants may need to pay first year upfront plus 5% security deposit.

What are the best family-friendly areas in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

Dubai: Arabian Ranches (villas, community feel, international schools nearby), Dubai Hills Estate (modern, parks, family amenities), Jumeirah Village Circle (affordable, family-friendly), The Springs/Meadows (established, good schools). Abu Dhabi: Yas Island (entertainment, schools, beaches), Al Reem Island (modern towers, sea views, schools), Khalifa City (spacious villas, family-oriented), Al Reef (affordable villas, community). Consider proximity to schools, supermarkets, parks, and your workplace.

What is the Founder Launch Partner program?

The Founder Launch Partner program offers 40-50% discounted rates and extended payment terms for service providers joining Relocate2UAE before March 2026. This limited-time offer helps us build our initial partner network with premium UAE businesses across education, housing, business setup, financial services, lifestyle, hospitality, and healthcare categories.

Who can become a partner with Relocate2UAE?

We partner with licensed UAE businesses serving expats and relocators including international schools, real estate agencies, business setup consultants, financial advisors, lifestyle brands, hotels, and healthcare providers. All partners undergo verification by our Abu Dhabi-based team to ensure quality and licensing compliance.

How much do partnership tiers cost?

Standard rates: Bronze AED 1,500-3,000/month, Silver AED 4,000-7,000/month, Gold custom pricing. Founder Launch Partners (until March 2026) receive 40-50% discount: Bronze from AED 750/month, Silver from AED 2,000/month, Gold 50% off custom rates.

What audience will I reach as a partner?

Relocate2UAE attracts 2,000+ monthly visitors actively researching and planning their relocation to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. These are high-intent users making real decisions about housing, schools, banking, business setup, and lifestyle services - not casual browsers.

How do I apply for partnership?

Submit the partnership application form with your company details, service category, and business information. Our Abu Dhabi team reviews applications within 2-3 business days and schedules a free consultation call to discuss partnership tiers, pricing, and onboarding.

How much does it cost to set up a company in UAE?

UAE company setup costs start from AED 2,750 in free zones like RAK Free Trade Zone. Most free zones require AED 5,000-15,000 for basic company setup. Mainland companies typically cost AED 10,000-50,000+ including license, office space, and PRO services.

Which is the best free zone in Dubai for my business?

The best Dubai free zone depends on your business activity: DMCC is best for trading and commodities, DIFC for financial services, IFZA for cost-effective startups, DAFZA for logistics and aviation. Consider your industry, budget, and visa requirements when choosing.

Can I get 100% foreign ownership in UAE?

Yes, 100% foreign ownership is allowed in all UAE free zones and in most mainland business activities since the 2020 UAE foreign ownership law changes. Some strategic sectors may still require a local partner.

How long does UAE company setup take?

Free zone company setup can be completed in 24-48 hours for fast-track processing, or 5-10 days for standard processing. Mainland company formation typically takes 2-4 weeks. Bank account opening adds 1-4 weeks.

Do I need to be in UAE to set up a company?

Many free zones allow 100% remote company setup. You can apply online, sign documents digitally, and have your license issued without visiting UAE. For mainland setup and visa applications, you'll need to enter UAE or authorize a representative.

What documents do I need for UAE company setup?

Basic requirements: passport copy (6+ months validity), passport photo, proof of residence. For company registration: certificate of incorporation, memorandum of association, board resolution. Documents may need attestation from UAE embassy and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

What is the difference between free zone and mainland company?

Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership, 0% corporate tax, and simple setup but can only operate within the zone or internationally. Mainland companies can operate anywhere in UAE market and bid on government contracts but may require a local partner and have higher setup costs.

Can I get a UAE residence visa with company setup?

Yes, company setup in UAE qualifies you for a residence visa. Most free zones offer investor visa (2-10 years) based on investment level. You can sponsor employees and family members once you have a valid residence visa.

2026 Complete Guide

UAE Business Setup Guide

The complete guide to starting a business in the UAE. Everything you need to know about free zones, mainland setup, costs, timelines, and requirements.

50+ Free Zones

0% Corporate Tax

100% Foreign Ownership

24-48h Fast Approvals

Explore Free Zones Get Expert Help

Why Set Up Business in the UAE?

The UAE has become one of the world's most attractive destinations for business setup, offering unmatched advantages for entrepreneurs and corporations.

0% Corporate Tax

Enjoy zero corporate tax on profits in most free zones. The UAE offers one of the most competitive tax environments globally.

100% Foreign Ownership

Full ownership without needing a local partner in most free zones. Keep complete control of your business.

Fast Setup Process

Company registration in as little as 24-48 hours in many free zones. Quick turnaround compared to other jurisdictions.

No Currency Restrictions

No foreign exchange controls. Full repatriation of profits and capital in any currency.

Strategic Location

Access to Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe markets. World-class infrastructure and logistics.

Stable Business Environment

Political stability, strong legal framework, and pro-business government policies.

UAE Free Zones

Choose from 50+ free zones across the UAE, each offering unique benefits for different business activities.

Dubai Free Zones

DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre)

DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre)

World-class financial centre with independent regulator and English common law framework.

Setup CostFrom AED 15,000

Visa QuotaUnlimited

Processing Time5-10 days

Best for: Financial services, fintech, banking, asset management

IFZA (International Free Zone Authority)

Cost-effective free zone with flexible office solutions and quick processing.

Setup CostFrom AED 5,900

Visa QuotaUp to 6

Processing Time2-3 days

Best for: Startups, small business, consulting, trading

Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZA)

Located at Dubai International Airport, ideal for aviation and logistics companies.

Setup CostFrom AED 12,000

Visa QuotaUp to 8

Processing Time5-7 days

Best for: Aviation, logistics, cargo, e-commerce

Abu Dhabi Free Zones

ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market)

Abu Dhabi's international financial centre with common law framework.

Setup CostFrom AED 15,000

Visa QuotaUnlimited

Processing Time5-10 days

Best for: Financial services, wealth management, fintech

ADIO (Abu Dhabi Investment Office)

Focuses on tech innovation and knowledge-based industries.

Setup CostFrom AED 11,000

Visa QuotaUp to 6

Processing Time7-10 days

Best for: Technology, innovation, research, biotech

Other Emirates

RAK Free Trade Zone

One of the most cost-effective free zones in the UAE with simple requirements.

FromAED 2,750

Time1-2 days

Sharjah Free Zone

Budget-friendly option in Sharjah with access to local market.

FromAED 3,500

Time2-3 days

Fujairah Free Zone

Eastern emirate with competitive pricing and maritime focus.

FromAED 3,000

Time2-3 days

Mainland Company Setup

Set up in the mainland UAE to access the local market, bid on government contracts, and operate anywhere in the UAE and GCC.

Mainland vs Free Zone

Mainland Advantages

Can operate anywhere in UAE market
Can bid on government contracts
No restriction on office location
Can import/export directly
Access to local business networks

Considerations

May require local partner (51%)
Higher setup costs than free zones
More documentation required
Longer processing time

Business Entity Types

LLC (Limited Liability Company)

Most common structure. Requires 1-50 shareholders. Limited liability protection.

Min 2 shareholders From AED 10,000

Sole Establishment

Single owner business. Full ownership but unlimited personal liability.

1 owner From AED 5,000

Civil Company

For professionals like lawyers, doctors, consultants. Partnership structure.

Min 2 partners From AED 7,500

Branch Office

Extension of foreign parent company. 100% foreign ownership allowed.

Parent company From AED 15,000

Costs & Timelines

Understanding the investment required and realistic timelines for your UAE business setup.

Setup Costs Breakdown

Free Zone License (Basic) AED 2,750 - 15,000

Mainland License AED 10,000 - 50,000

Office Space (Virtual) AED 1,500 - 5,000/yr

Physical Office AED 15,000 - 100,000/yr

Visa (per person) AED 1,100 - 3,500

Bank Account Opening AED 0 - 2,000

PRO Services AED 2,000 - 5,000

Typical Timelines

Free Zone (Fast Track) 24 - 48 hours

Free Zone (Standard) 5 - 10 days

Mainland LLC 2 - 4 weeks

Golden Visa 30 - 60 days

Bank Account 1 - 4 weeks

Employee Visa 2 - 3 weeks

Complete Setup (with visa) 3 - 8 weeks

AED 5,000

Minimum Investment

24 Hours

Fastest Setup

100%

Foreign Ownership

Required Documents

Prepare these documents for a smooth business setup process in the UAE.

For Individuals

Passport copy (valid for 6+ months)
Passport-sized photo (white background)
Proof of residence (utility bill/bank statement)
Copy of existing UAE visa (if resident)
Resume/CV (for professional licenses)
Qualification certificates (for professional licenses)

For Companies

Certificate of Incorporation (attested)
Company Memorandum & Articles (attested)
Board resolution authorizing setup
Passport copies of all shareholders/directors
Power of attorney (if using agent)
Three years financial statements (for branch)

Document Attestation

Documents from outside the UAE typically require attestation from the UAE Embassy in the origin country and Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE. Some free zones accept documents without full attestation. Check with your chosen free zone for specific requirements.

Step-by-Step Process

Follow this roadmap to establish your business in the UAE.

1

Choose Your Business Activity

Select the appropriate activity for your business from the approved list. This determines your license type and which free zones you can operate in.

Trading Services Industrial Professional

2

Select Jurisdiction & Entity Type

Decide between free zone or mainland, and choose your entity structure (FZC, LLC, Sole Establishment, etc.).

Free Zone Mainland Offshore

3

Choose Your Free Zone or Location

Research and select the best free zone for your industry and budget. Consider location, costs, visa quota, and specific benefits.

DMCC IFZA DIFC RAK

4

Submit Application & Documents

Complete the application form and submit all required documents. Many free zones offer online submission.

Processing time: 1-10 business days depending on free zone

5

Receive License & Register

Once approved, receive your trade license and company registration documents. Pay any remaining fees.

Trade License Certificate of Incorporation Company Stamp

6

Open Bank Account & Get Visa

Open a corporate bank account and apply for investor/employment visas. Your visa quota depends on your license type.

Bank account opening can take 2-4 weeks

Need Expert Help with Setup?

Creative Zone has helped 75,000+ businesses set up in the UAE. Get free consultation and quote.

Get Free Quote Contact Partner

Ready to Start Your UAE Business?

Let our expert partners guide you through every step of the business setup process. Get personalized advice tailored to your needs.

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Part of the Relocate2UAE comprehensive guide series.

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