How to Set Up a Business in Dubai From the UK

Start with the activity and operating model

Define what the business will do, where it will trade, who it serves, what space it needs, how it will bank, who needs visas and how it may expand. That sequence — not a headline setup price — should drive the structure.

Jurisdiction, licence and premises

Mainland and free-zone structures suit different activities and operating models. Licence categories broadly cover commercial, professional and industrial activity, but the exact activity must be verified through official channels. Premises (office, retail, warehouse or none) follow the activity — see Commercial and Industrial & Logistics.

Banking and visas — never guaranteed

Business and personal bank account opening is subject to each bank's KYC and approval process. Some structures may support residence routes for eligible owners/employees, subject to current immigration rules. Neither can be guaranteed; both are prepared and coordinated.

Sources & Methodology

• Invest in Dubai / Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) — mainland licensing and activities.
• Relevant free-zone authority — zone-specific licensing and permitted activities.
• Limitations: activity, licence and permission facts must be verified through current official channels; not legal or tax advice.

Educational information only — general information, not personalised investment, tax or legal advice. Verify current fees, rules and market data with official sources before deciding; figures in the Decision Lab are illustrative planning scenarios, not guarantees.