Dynasty Migration
Unbranded modern business district in the UAE

Company formation

UAE Business Setup

Compare mainland, free zone, holding company, branch, and subsidiary structures that may support wider relocation planning.

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UAE Business Setup routes

Each route names its issuing authority, keeps costs separate and states what it does not give.

United Arab Emirates

Free zone or mainland

A structured comparison of the two main UAE company routes: free zones for international trade and services, mainland for trading across the UAE.

Licensed in 1–4 weeks, typically

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United Arab Emirates

Free zone

Company formation in one of the UAE's 40+ free zones, suited to international trade, consulting and holding activity.

0% qualifying tax · 40+ free zones

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United Arab Emirates

Mainland

A company licensed by an emirate's economic department, able to trade directly across the UAE and bid for government contracts.

100% ownership · UAE-wide trading

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United Arab Emirates

Holding company

A structure, often in ADGM, DIFC or a free zone, for holding shares, property or other assets across a family or group.

ADGM, DIFC or free zone structures

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United Arab Emirates

Branch or subsidiary

Options for an established foreign company opening a UAE presence as a branch or a locally incorporated subsidiary.

Branch or locally incorporated subsidiary

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Quick answer

What is UAE Business Setup?

Compare mainland, free zone, holding company, branch, and subsidiary structures that may support wider relocation planning. Each route on this page names its issuing authority, keeps the qualifying asset separate from government fees, and states clearly what it does not give. Final approval always rests with the issuing authority.

  • Free zone or mainland
  • Free zone
  • Mainland
  • Holding company

Step by step

How to choose a UAE Business Setup route

Four steps we follow with every family.

  1. 1Define the goal

    Residence, a business base, a second passport, or a mix.

  2. 2Compare routes

    Review facts and limits side by side.

  3. 3Check eligibility

    A short check narrows the realistic options.

  4. 4Speak with an adviser

    Confirm current criteria before committing funds.

People also ask

It depends on your goals, family and the assets you already hold. The eligibility check gives a first view; an adviser confirms it against current authority criteria.

Next step

Discuss UAE Business Setup with an adviser

Start with a short eligibility check, or call or WhatsApp us for a private conversation.

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Independent advisory

Dynasty Migration helps clients understand available routes. Every visa, permit, and citizenship decision rests with the relevant government or issuing authority.