Setting up a business in Dubai is a common pathway for UK professionals and entrepreneurs relocating to the UAE. The business structure you choose determines your visa eligibility, tax treatment, and operational flexibility.
Dubai Oneway coordinates your business setup process with trusted PRO (Public Relations Officer) partners, ensuring you select the right structure and navigate the licensing process efficiently.
Business setup coordination is included in the Dubai Oneway Professional Relocation Package (From £6,000).
The costs shown below are third-party fees paid directly to PRO services and government authorities.
We manage the entire business setup process on your behalf:
What we don’t do: We don’t provide legal or tax advice. We coordinate the administrative process with specialist partners.
| Feature | Mainland | Free Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Market Access | ✅ Anywhere in UAE (local + government contracts) | ❌ Free Zone + International only (needs distributor for mainland) |
| Foreign Ownership | ✅ 100% (1,000+ activities via DED) | ✅ 100% (always guaranteed) |
| Office Requirement | ❌ Physical office (Ejari registered) | ✅ Flexi-desk / virtual OK |
| Setup Time | 4–8 weeks | 2–4 weeks (remote possible) |
| Visa Quota | ✅ Unlimited (based on office size) | ❌ Limited (6–10 max typical) |
| Corporate Tax | 9% (> AED 375k profits) | 0% on qualifying income |
| Total Cost (Est.) | £4,500 – £7,500 | £3,000 – £6,000 |
| Best For | Local trading, retail, services | Export, tech, consulting, startups |
Your investor/partner visa through the company can normally be used to sponsor your spouse and children, subject to standard UAE rules (income, housing, etc.).
Multiple Routes:
In some cases, you may be eligible for Green or Golden Visa options via your business. We can coordinate introductions to specialist advisors for these routes where relevant.
Dubai Oneway’s business‑setup coordination fee covers planning, sequencing, provider liaison and issue resolution.
Government fees, free zone/mainland authority fees, bank minimum balances and tax registration costs are always paid directly by you to the relevant providers.
No. You can relocate via employment visa (sponsored by UAE employer), investor visa (property), or family sponsorship. However, many UK professionals choose to set up a business for flexibility and control.
Yes. Many clients maintain their UK Ltd and establish a UAE entity for specific purposes. We coordinate with your UK accountant to ensure optimal structuring.
No. UAE visa sponsorship is exclusive. If you want to work for another company, they must sponsor your visa (you’d close your business or maintain it separately without visa sponsorship).
Depends on your business activity. Media/creative professionals often choose Media City. Tech companies prefer DIFC or Dubai Silicon Oasis. General consultants use DMCC or DAFZA. We assess your specific needs during consultation.
Mainland companies: Unlimited (subject to office space).
Free zones: Typically 1-6 visas depending on license package and office tier.
Book a free consultation to establish your company and coordinate your residence visa.
