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Business Setup · Mainland, Freezone & Offshore · DED, Free Zone Authorities

Business Setup in UAE — Mainland & Freezone

Business setup in UAE is one of the smartest moves any entrepreneur or international brand can make in 2026 — with 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax, and full profit repatriation removing every barrier to growth.

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500+
Brands registered
15+
Years experience
24–48h
Response time
100%
Compliance focus
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Registered pathways

  • Dubai Municipality
  • Montaji / CPRE
  • MOHAP
  • ESMA
  • Dubai Customs
  • Free Zone Authorities
Overview

Business Setup in UAE — Mainland & Freezone Company Formation

But business setup in UAE isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you need mainland and freezone company setup in UAE, or a specific SHAMS, Meydan, SPC freezone setup — each comes with different licensing rules, visa packages, and cost structures. Pick the wrong one and you’re paying more than you should. That’s where Nextmove steps in. Our business setup consultants in Dubai guide you through the entire process — from freezone company formation UAE to trade licences, government paperwork, and visa processing — so your business setup in UAE is fully operational from day one, stress-free.

  • Full business consultation and structure selection (mainland, freezone, or offshore)
  • Trade name reservation and activity/license compliance review
  • Query handling with the licensing authority
  • Trade license delivered digitally
  • Post-license visa, Emirates ID & PRO support
  • Post-approval customs support
WHAT WE DO

Product categories we register.

From single-SKU indie launches to full multinational portfolios, we handle every cosmetic sub-category regulated under CPRE.

SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) Company Formation

SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) Company Formation

SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) is one of the UAE’s most affordable and flexible freezones — built specifically for media professionals, digital marketers, content creators, influencers, and freelancers who want a legitimate UAE business without the heavy costs. With 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax, and a fully remote setup process, SHAMS lets you launch your business from anywhere in the world — no office required, no local sponsor needed. Whether you’re a solo freelancer wanting a UAE visa, a digital agency expanding into the Gulf, or an influencer needing a legal business entity — SHAMS gives you the fastest, most cost-effective path to a licensed UAE company. Nextmove Services handles the entire process for you, from licence selection to visa processing, so you’re operational from day one.

Meydan Dubai Freezone Company Formation

Meydan Dubai Freezone Company Formation

Meydan Free Zone sits at the heart of Dubai — one of the most prestigious business addresses in the UAE — making it the ideal choice for consultants, tech startups, e-commerce brands, and trading companies who want a Dubai presence without mainland complexities. One of the biggest concerns for entrepreneurs is choosing the right free zone and then getting stuck in paperwork. Meydan eliminates that frustration with a streamlined, digital-first registration process, flexible office and flexi-desk options, and visa packages that scale as your team grows. With 100% ownership, full profit repatriation, and access to Dubai’s global business ecosystem, Meydan is the smart choice for businesses that want credibility, speed, and flexibility all in one place. Nextmove Services is an official Meydan Free Zone partner — meaning faster approvals, direct processing, and zero back-and-forth for you.

SPC Freezone Company Formation

SPC Freezone Company Formation

SPC (Sharjah Publishing City) Free Zone is one of the UAE’s most versatile freezones — supporting over 1,500 business activities across publishing, general trading, e-commerce, consultancy, and more. If you’ve struggled to find a free zone that fits your specific business activity, SPC almost certainly covers it. Located in Sharjah with direct access to Dubai, SPC offers some of the most competitive setup costs in the UAE — making it a top choice for startups, SMEs, and international businesses entering the Emirates on a lean budget without compromising on legitimacy or compliance. What sets SPC apart is its flexibility — multiple licence types, scalable visa allocations, and a straightforward renewal process mean your business can grow without constant regulatory headaches. As an official SPC Channel Partner, Nextmove Services gives you direct access to faster processing, expert guidance, and a smooth setup experience from start to finish.

How it works

A five-step pathway to approval.

Every engagement follows the same structured pathway. You always know what stage you're at, what's next, and who's handling it.

  1. Step 01

    Consultation

    Free 30-minute call to map your category, timeline and cost.

  2. Step 02

    Dossier audit

    We review formulations, artwork, and manufacturer documents.

  3. Step 03

    Submission

    Full CPRE submission via the Montaji portal with our specialist.

  4. Step 04

    Query handling

    We manage authority feedback and clarifications on your behalf.

  5. Step 05

    Approval

    Digital approval certificate delivered — ready for customs.

Documentation

What you'll need to prepare.

Requirements vary slightly by structure (mainland, freezone, or offshore), but the core dossier is consistent. We audit every document before submission so nothing bounces back.

  • Passport copies (all shareholders/partners)
  • Proposed trade name (3 options, for approval)
  • Business activity selection
  • Tenancy contract / Ejari (mainland) or flexi-desk agreement (freezone)
  • Notarized Memorandum of Association (MOA)
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) — if currently UAE-sponsored
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Visa & Emirates ID application (if applicable)
Timeline & investment

Transparent timelines. No hidden fees.

Indicative ranges based on typical business structures. Investment starts from AED 10,000 for freezone packages, with mainland and offshore costs varying by activity and licensing requirements. Exact scope and fees are confirmed after your free consultation.

Category Typical timeline Common approvals
Freezone Company Formation (Meydan, SHAMS, SPC) 3–7 working days Free zone authority
Mainland Company Formation 7–14 working days DED
Offshore Company Formation (RAK ICC / JAFZA) 3–7 working days (certificate only — no visa/office) RAK ICC, JAFZA
Investor/Employee Visa Processing (post-license) 2–4 weeks GDRFA, MOHRE
Trade License Renewal / Activity Amendment 3–5 working days DED / Free zone authority
FAQ

Business Setup Mainland & Freezone, answered plainly.

Still have questions? Our regulatory specialists respond within 24 hours.

What is the difference between mainland and freezone company setup in UAE?
Mainland companies can trade directly across the UAE market with no restrictions. Freezone companies offer 100% foreign ownership and 0% tax on qualifying income but require a distributor for mainland sales. The right choice depends on your customers’ location and business model.
How much does it cost to set up a company in UAE free zone?
Freezone company formation in the UAE typically starts from AED 10,000–15,000 for a basic package including a trade licence and flexi-desk. Costs vary by zone, visa requirements, and office space. Nextmove Services provides a free cost breakdown tailored to your activity.
How long does business setup take in Dubai?
Most freezone company formations are completed in 3–7 working days. Mainland setups with DED approval typically take 7–14 working days depending on the activity and approvals required.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a UAE company?
Yes. All UAE freezone companies allow 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor required. Since 2021, most mainland business activities also permit full foreign ownership following UAE Commercial Companies Law reforms.
Do I need a physical office to set up a company in a UAE free zone?
No. Most free zones offer flexi-desk or virtual office solutions that satisfy licensing requirements without a dedicated office. This significantly reduces setup cost for startups and remote-first businesses.
Free consultation

Ready to register your cosmetics in the UAE?

Book a 30-minute call with our regulatory specialists. We'll map the fastest pathway for your category and share a clear cost and timeline estimate.

Visit
Iliya Tower 1, Office #207, Dubai, UAE

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