Question 1

Can a foreigner own 100% of a UAE free zone company?

Accepted Answer

Yes. UAE free zone companies generally allow 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local Emirati sponsor or partner. This applies to free zones in Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and other emirates. The applicable ownership rules depend on the selected Free Zone, business activity and any specific licensing requirements.

Question 2

What is the difference between a free zone and a mainland company?

Accepted Answer

A UAE Free Zone company is incorporated within a designated economic zone and generally permits 100% foreign ownership. Its ability to conduct business on the UAE mainland depends on its licensed activities and the rules of the relevant Free Zone and mainland authority. Additional licensing, a branch, distributor or another approved arrangement may be required. A mainland company is licensed to conduct business across the UAE mainland, subject to activity-specific ownership and regulatory requirements.

Question 3

Is there corporate tax in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

The UAE has a federal corporate tax regime. The standard corporate tax rate is generally 9% on taxable income exceeding AED 375,000, subject to the rules and exemptions in UAE tax legislation. A Qualifying Free Zone Person may benefit from a 0% rate on Qualifying Income if all statutory conditions are satisfied. Eligible UAE resident taxable persons with revenue not exceeding AED 3 million may elect for Small Business Relief for qualifying tax periods ending on or before 31 December 2026, subject to statutory conditions. We coordinate corporate tax registration and filing but do not provide legal tax advice.

Question 4

Do I need to travel to the UAE to set up my company?

Accepted Answer

Much of the incorporation process may be coordinated remotely. However, physical attendance in the UAE may be required at various stages, including medical examinations, biometrics, Emirates ID procedures, bank account applications or authority requirements, depending on the selected Free Zone, visa category and applicant nationality.

Question 5

What does a UAE residence visa allow me to do?

Accepted Answer

A UAE residence visa permits the holder to reside in the UAE during its validity. Depending on the visa category and applicable employment rules, it may also support lawful work activities. It can enable applications for an Emirates ID, UAE driving licence, family sponsorship and banking services, but each remains subject to separate eligibility, documentation and approval requirements.

Question 6

What is the UAE Golden Visa and who qualifies?

Accepted Answer

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa available for certain qualifying categories, including investors, entrepreneurs, executives, skilled professionals and others. Eligibility, documentation, government charges and processing requirements depend on the relevant category and are subject to authority approval. Visa issuance is not guaranteed. Pricing ranges from AED 10,000 to AED 20,000 depending on the visa category and applicant circumstances.

Question 7

What is included in the company formation packages?

Accepted Answer

All company formation packages include the trade licence, lease agreement, Memorandum of Association or applicable constitutional documents, E-Channel registration and establishment card, where applicable to the selected package and free zone. Packages containing one or more residence visas additionally include the entry permit, visa processing charges, medical examination and Emirates ID application. Sharjah and Ajman visa packages include basic visa-related insurance, subject to eligibility and insurer terms.

Question 8

How long does it take to set up a UAE free zone company?

Accepted Answer

Processing times vary depending on the selected Free Zone, business activity, applicant nationality, documentation, immigration requirements and authority approval. An estimated timeline will be provided after the application has been reviewed. We do not guarantee specific processing timelines.

Question 9

Do I need to register for VAT in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

VAT registration is mandatory for UAE businesses with taxable supplies or imports exceeding AED 375,000 per annum. Voluntary registration is available from AED 187,500. The UAE standard VAT rate is 5%. VAT returns are submitted for the tax periods assigned by the Federal Tax Authority. We coordinate VAT registration, return filing and, where needed, VAT deregistration.

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