Mainland or Free Zone – Full Ownership, Full Support
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands out as a global business hub — combining ease of doing business, strategic access to global markets, and a stable, pro-investment environment.
Whether you’re launching a startup or expanding your global footprint, you can choose between two main business setup options in the UAE: Mainland or Free Zone. Both allow 100% foreign ownership in most sectors and provide access to UAE residency visas for shareholders and employees.
Mainland Company Setup
Mainland companies are licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and allow you to operate freely anywhere in the UAE, without geographic or customer restrictions.
Recent reforms now permit 100% foreign ownership for most business activities, removing the requirement for a local partner in many cases.
Advantages of Mainland Setup:
- Operate across all emirates
- No limitations on clients or location
- Access to government contracts
- Broad business activity selection
- Flexible office location options
- UAE residency visas for shareholders and staff
Free Zone Company Setup
Free Zones are special economic zones with independent regulatory frameworks and streamlined company registration processes. They’re especially attractive to international investors and offer complete foreign ownership, tax benefits, and world-class infrastructure.
Advantages of Free Zone Setup:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Quick and easy setup process
- Tax advantages and duty exemptions
- Full repatriation of profits and capital
- Flexible office, warehouse, and flexi-desk options
- UAE residency visas available for shareholders and employees
Our Services
At Lapras Business Consultants (LBC), we guide you through every step — from choosing the right jurisdiction and business structure to managing documentation, registration, licensing, and compliance.
Your global business journey starts here — with clarity, efficiency, and the expert support of LBC. Let’s build it right, wherever you choose to grow.
01
Business Setup & Licensing
- Name Reservation via RUN (Reserve Unique Name)
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and Director Identification Number (DIN)
- Certificate of Incorporation (COI)
- PAN & TAN Registration
- Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)
- Company Master Data Filing with MCA
- Import Export Code (IEC), if required
- Opening the bank account
- Local Director services
02
Tax & Regulatory Registrations
- Corporate Tax Registration (CT)
- Value Added Tax (VAT) Registration
- Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) Declaration Filing
- Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance Support
03
Accounting & Financial Compliance
- Full-Service Bookkeeping
- Monthly/Quarterly/Annual Financial Statements
- Chart of Accounts Setup
- Audit Preparation & Coordination (where required)
- Payroll Accounting & WPS Setup
04
Tax Filings & Compliance
- VAT Return Filing (Quarterly/Monthly)
- Corporate Tax Return Filing
- Corporate Tax Advisory & Planning
- Voluntary Disclosure & Tax Clarifications (FTA assistance)
- Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) Assistance
05
License & Admin Renewals
- Trade License Renewal
- Tenancy Contract (Ejari) Renewal
- Establishment Card Renewal (Immigration)
- MOA Amendments & Share Transfer Support
- License Amendment (Activity/Name/Ownership)
- Bank Account Assistance & Updates
06
Advisory & Support
- Business Structuring & Re-structuring
- Corporate Tax Impact Assessment
- Free Zone Selection & Comparison
- Legal Drafting & Document Review
- Annual Compliance Calendar Setup
- Ongoing Regulatory Monitoring & Alerts
List of most preferred Free Zones in the UAE (by Emirate)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are UAE Free Zones, and why should I consider them for company formation?
UAE Free Zones are designated economic areas that offer a business-friendly environment with a range of benefits, such as full foreign ownership, tax advantages, simplified setup processes, and access to modern infrastructure. They’re designed to attract international investors and are ideal for startups, SMEs, and global companies looking to expand in the region.
What types of businesses can be formed in the UAE Free Zones?
Free Zones support a wide range of business activities, including:
- Trading and import/export
- Consulting and professional services
- Technology and IT
- Media and content creation
- Manufacturing and light industry
- Logistics and warehousing
- Education and training
- Healthcare and wellness
- E-commerce and digital services
Each Free Zone may have specific permitted activities, so it’s important to match your business type with the right zone.
What are the key benefits of forming a company in a UAE Free Zone?
Key advantages include:
- 100% foreign ownership
- 9% corporate tax (with exemptions for qualifying Free Zone businesses)
- 0% personal income tax
- No currency restrictions
- No import/export duties within the Free Zone
- No minimum capital requirement in many zones
- Access to residency visas for shareholders and employees
- Full profit and capital repatriation
- World-class infrastructure and office solutions
- Streamlined registration and licensing processes
What are the different types of Free Zones in the UAE?
The UAE has over 40 Free Zones, each with a focus on specific industries. Some of the most popular include:
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
- Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
- Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone)
- Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
- International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)
- Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
- Ajman Free Zone (AFZ)
Each zone offers its own licensing types, fee structures, and visa quotas.
How do I choose the right Free Zone for my business?
Choosing the right Free Zone depends on:
- The nature of your business activity
- Your target market (UAE vs. international)
- Your budget and cost considerations
- Your office space and visa needs
- Location preference (e.g., proximity to ports, airports, or mainland clients)
Consulting with experts like Lapras Business Consultants ensures you choose the zone that aligns with your business goals.
Can foreign nationals fully own a company in a UAE Free Zone?
Yes. Free Zones allow 100% foreign ownership without the need for a local sponsor or partner — one of their main advantages over traditional mainland setups (though mainland now allows 100% foreign ownership for many activities as well).
How long does it take to register a company in a UAE Free Zone?
Typically, the company formation process takes 5 to 10 business days, provided all documentation is complete and accurate. Some Free Zones offer express setup options for faster turnaround.
Can I open a bank account in the UAE for a Free Zone company?
Yes, Free Zone companies are eligible to open corporate bank accounts in the UAE. The requirements vary by bank but generally include:
- Business license and incorporation documents
- Shareholder and director passport copies
- Business plan and source of funds