Company setup costs in the UAE vary significantly depending on your choice of jurisdiction, physical office requirements, and visa quota. Whether you are a solo consultant looking for the absolute cheapest setup or a multinational seeking a prestigious Dubai address, understanding the fee spectrum helps you allocate capital efficiently.
2026 Price Comparison: Cheapest to Premium Setup Options
| Setup Category | Example Free Zone / License | Starting License Cost | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultra-Budget (Zero-Visa) | Ajman NuVentures / SRTIP / SHAMS | AED 4,888 – 5,750 | Solopreneurs, digital nomads, freelancers |
| Budget Dubai Free Zone | Meydan Free Zone / IFZA | AED 12,500 – 12,900 | E-commerce, online trading, consultants |
| Dubai Mainland (DET) | Instant License / Standard LLC | AED 10,000 – 18,000+ | Local retail, contracting, onshore trading |
| Mid-Tier Commodity Hub | DMCC (Jumeirah Lakes Towers) | AED 35,000 – 50,000+ | Global commodities, crypto, regional SMEs |
| Premium Financial Hub | DIFC / ADGM | AED 50,000 – 80,000+ | Banks, fintech, venture capital, hedge funds |
Hidden Setup Expenses to Include in Your Budget
In addition to the baseline license fee, budget for recurring operational costs:
- Establishment Card: AED 500 – 1,825 per year (mandatory for issuing residence visas).
- Residency Visa Expenses: AED 3,800 – 6,500 per person (includes medical fitness check, Emirates ID, and biometrics).
- Corporate Bank Account & Compliance: Minimum balance requirements or third-party compliance processing fees.
- Corporate Tax & VAT Registration: Mandatory registration for 9% UAE Corporate Tax once business operations begin.
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