Choose the right jurisdiction for your UAE business with Hire Consultancy
Whether you opt for a Free Zone or Mainland setup, we handle full registration—including Ejari/Tawtheeq, licensing, visas, and banking support—across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and all emirates.
Get Custom Quote Now| Feature | Free Zone | Mainland |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | 100% foreign ownership | 100% foreign ownership (most activities) |
| Business Location | Restricted to free zone | Anywhere in UAE (onshore) |
| Market Access | Export-focused; limited local trade | Full access to UAE local market |
| Physical Office | Flexi-desk or leased unit (Ejari/Tawtheeq may apply) |
Mandatory registered tenancy (Ejari/Tawtheeq required) |
| Virtual Office Option | Yes (in select free zones) | No |
| Visa Quota | Based on office size (1 visa per 8–15 sqm) |
Unlimited (subject to office size & activity) |
| Customs Duty | Duty-free import/export within zone | 5% customs duty on imports |
| Corporate Tax | 0% (if qualifying) or 9% | 9% on taxable income > AED 375,000 |
| VAT Registration | Mandatory if turnover > AED 375,000 | Mandatory if turnover > AED 375,000 |
| Bank Account | Easy in-zone banking | Full access to all UAE banks |
| Setup Cost | From AED 12,500 | From AED 18,000 |
| Setup Time | 3–7 days | 5–10 days |
Ideal for: Export-oriented businesses, tech startups, consultancies, e-commerce, and holding companies.
of profits/capital
with one-stop-shop authorities
(shared office, no full lease)
in select zones (e.g., DMCC, IFZA, RAKEZ)
Trading, commodities, crypto
Logistics, manufacturing
Consultancy, service-based
Industrial, media, e-commerce
Freelancers, solopreneurs
Note:
Some free zones issue Ejari for leased units; Tawtheeq applies in Abu Dhabi free zones (e.g., twofour54, Masdar).
Ideal for: Local trading, retail, hospitality, professional services, government contracts, and businesses serving UAE residents.
(no geographic limits)
(since 2021 reform)
(based on office size)
across all UAE banks
(minimum 200–300 sq ft depending on activity)
only for certain professional licenses (no ownership, fee-based)
| Option | Free Zone Virtual Office | Mainland Virtual Office |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed? | Yes (select zones) | No |
| License Type | VCC or standard free zone | Not applicable |
| Ejari/Tawtheeq | Not required | N/A |
| Best For | Remote global businesses | Not available |
| Service | Free Zone | Mainland |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction recommendation | ||
| Trade name & activity selection | ||
| Office sourcing (flexi/physical) | ||
| Ejari/Tawtheeq registration | ||
| License application & approvals | ||
| Visa processing (investor/employee) | ||
| Bank account opening support | ||
| VAT & corporate tax setup |
Export, consulting, online business
Retail, F&B, local services
Government contracts
Test market with low cost
Full local presence + team
Get a custom quote in 60 minutes
Contact Hire Consultancy — Let us match your business to the perfect setup.