Day: April 13, 2026

100% Foreign Ownership in UAE (2026): What Changed, Who Qualifies & How to Set Up

Quick answer Yes — Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2021 abolished the 51% local ownership rule. Foreign investors can now own 100% of UAE mainland LLCs across most commercial activities as default. The Cabinet-approved Positive List covers over 1,000 permitted activities for full foreign ownership Setup cost ranges from AED 15,000–30,000 on mainland; processing takes […]

Dubai Business Setup Cost Calculator (2026): Instant Estimates — Free Zone & Mainland

Quick answer Dubai business setup costs range from AED 15,000–18,000 in free zones to AED 28,000–100,000+ for mainland operations in 2026., Costs vary by structure, visa count, and office type. RAKEZ is the cheapest free zone option at AED 15,000–18,000 Year 1 total for a solo founder with one visa and flexi-desk Mainland professional licenses […]

Top 10 Business Ideas in Dubai for Expats (2026) — With Real Costs

The best business ideas in Dubai for expats in 2026 include e-commerce, business consulting, cloud kitchens, real-estate brokerage, tutoring, and freelancing. Entry costs start from roughly AED 5,555–15,000 for a budget free-zone licence (Ajman Free Zone, SHAMS, RAK), while mainland ventures like brokerages or cleaning companies typically need AED 15,000–50,000+ once visas and approvals are […]

Free Zone vs Mainland vs Offshore UAE (2026): Side-by-Side Comparison

Free zone vs mainland vs offshore UAE — complete 2026 comparison with real costs, corporate tax impact, visa rules, and a step-by-step decision guide. From AED 13,000 all-in.

Company Formation Cost in Dubai (2026): Realistic Breakdown — Free Zone, Mainland & Offshore

Quick answer Dubai company formation costs AED 18,000–75,000+ in year one, depending on structure., Free zones start at AED 18,000–22,000; mainland LLCs range AED 30,000–60,000 all-in. Free zone license: AED 9,000–25,000 plus flexi-desk (AED 3,000–15,000/year) and visa costs Mainland LLC: AED 12,000–18,000 license plus mandatory office lease (AED 20,000–120,000/year) Offshore option: AED 8,000–12,000 all-in but […]