Business Setup in the UAE for Foreigners: Step-by-Step (2026)

Updated 2026

Foreigners can own 100% of a UAE company in most cases. Here's the clean, step-by-step path from idea to licensed, banked and visa-ready.

The steps

1) Pick activity and jurisdiction (free zone vs mainland). 2) Reserve a name. 3) Submit incorporation and get initial approval. 4) File UBO. 5) Open a bank account. 6) Apply for establishment card and visas.

Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership by default; mainland now allows full foreign ownership for most activities too.

What to budget

Plan for the licence, visa costs, medical and Emirates ID, office/flexi-desk and a bank minimum balance. A lean free-zone setup with one visa can start under AED 25,000 all-in.

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Frequently asked

Can a foreigner own 100% of a UAE company?

Yes — free zones offer 100% foreign ownership by default, and mainland now permits it for most activities.

Do I need to be in the UAE to set up?

Much of the process can be done remotely, but you typically need to visit for medical and Emirates ID biometrics when getting a residence visa.