Mainland Company
Operate anywhere in the UAE and do business throughout the country with ease. Full foreign ownership is now permitted in most sectors.
UAE Company incorporation
Set Up Your 100% Foreign-Owned UAE Company Quickly and Compliantly
Thinking of Setting Up in the UAE? We’ll Handle Everything
Setting up a company in the United Arab Emirates can be quite the process. From choosing between free zone, mainland, or financial zone structures to navigating regulatory requirements across Emirates, the UAE offers a variety of options for business owners, investors and entrepreneurs.
Auxilium steps in to simplify the process so you can focus on growth.
A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide to Establishing Your Company in UAE
Types of Company Structures to Choose From
Choosing the right legal structure is key to your success in the UAE. Here are the most common options:
Mainland Company
Free Zone Company
Ideal for trading, tech, and consulting businesses. Enjoy 100% ownership, low to no corporate tax, simplified reporting, and fast-track setup within designated free zones.
Branch of a Foreign Company
Expand your global presence in the UAE while maintaining full parent company ownership.
Why Choose Auxilium ?
Comprehensive Business Setup & Compliance Support
Company Formation & Licensing
We manage everything from DED and free zone licensing to corporate structuring and market entry strategy—ensuring your business gets off the ground quickly and compliantly.
Regulatory Compliance
Our team ensures post-setup obligations like VAT registration, UBO filings, ESR, and economic substance declarations are fully handled.
Residency & Workforce Solutions
From investor and employment visas to golden and freelance visas, we handle your team's full residency journey with efficiency and transparency.
Banking & Financial Services
We support corporate bank account setup and assistance with government portals like MOHRE, ICP, and the Ministry of Economy.
Why the UAE is a Global Business Hub
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#1
Global Rank in Ease of Getting Electricity, Paying Taxes
(World Bank Doing Business Index)
(World Bank Doing Business Index)
AED 1.86 tn
Nominal GDP (2023)
$45,000+
GDP per Capita
23%
YOY Growth in Foreign Investment (2023)
+600
Free Zone Clusters Across the UAE
AED 837 bn
Non-oil Foreign Trade (H1 2023)
Case Studies of Past Clients
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How Auxilium Helped a Leading PropTech Company Expand its UAE Team Compliantly with 6 New Hires
Discover how Auxilium helped a leading PropTech company expand its UAE team with six compliant hires while navigating local employment regulations.
6 new
UAE-based employees
Hiring & Onboarding 11 UAE Renewable Energy Hires in 30 Days (Without Entity Setup)
See how Auxilium enabled rapid hiring and compliant onboarding of a full UAE renewable energy project team without the need for entity setup.
11 hires
Deployed in 30 days
Enabling Rapid Expansion for a Global Retail Tech Platform in Saudi Arabia & UAE
Learn how Auxilium enabled a global retail tech platform to expand into the UAE and Saudi Arabia with fully compliant teams and no entity setup delays.
2 markets
UAE and Saudi Arabia live
Frequently Asked Questions.
Can I own 100% of my company in the UAE?
Yes. As of recent legal reforms, most mainland and all free zone companies allow 100% foreign ownership.
What’s the difference between mainland and free zone setups?
Mainland companies can do business anywhere in the UAE and with the government. Free zone companies enjoy faster setup and tax advantages but may need a local distributor to trade onshore.
One of the key benefits of a GCC Employer of Record is that they can handle the post hiring and onboarding of employees in the GCC region. This includes preparing and submitting employment contracts, visas, and other required documents. The GCC EOR will also manage payroll and benefits administration for employees, including calculating and processing salaries and benefits, and withholding and remitting taxes and other deductions.
Another important responsibility of a GCC Employer of Record is ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations. The GCC Employer of Record will help companies navigate the complexities of employment compliance in the GCC region, including laws related to minimum wage, working hours, leave entitlements, and other rights and benefits for employees. By ensuring compliance, businesses can avoid costly penalties and legal issues that could arise from non-compliance.
Do I need a local sponsor for a UAE mainland company?
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Do I need to rent office space?
How many visas can I get under my company?
The number of visas depends on your office size and license type. Free zones have visa quotas, while mainland companies are more flexible.
Can I open a bank account in the UAE as a foreigner?
Yes, though banks have strict KYC requirements. We assist with the documentation, application process, and bank introductions to ease the journey.
Do I need to be physically present for the setup?
Some free zone setups can be done remotely. However, for mainland companies and visa issuance, a UAE visit is typically required at some point
Is corporate tax applicable in the UAE?
Yes. As of June 2023, a 9% corporate tax applies to mainland companies earning over AED 375,000 in annual profit. Free zone companies may continue to benefit from 0% tax if they meet qualifying criteria.
Contact us
Thinking of Expanding into the UAE?
With its investor-friendly climate, tax advantages, and strategic location, the UAE is a magnet for global businesses. Whether you’re testing the market or establishing a long-term presence, Auxilium offers hands-on support through every stage of your journey.
Speak to one of our experts today.
Let’s build your business in the UAE
Fill out the form or reach out directly – we’ll respond within one business day.