Compare setup routes before requesting a licence quote. Start with what your company will do, where it will trade and who needs a visa.
Dubai mainland
List your planned activities, ownership and premises needs. Ask the licensing authority whether the activities can sit on one licence and whether they need external approvals or a physical location.
Licensing and approvals
Prepare a shortlist of activities, shareholder details, trade name options and workspace requirements. Confirm which approvals come first, and whether your office choice supports the visas you need. A business bank account is a separate application.
Compare setup costs
Ask for an itemised first-year and renewal estimate covering licence, registration, premises, visas and any required approvals. Ask how adding an activity, changing shareholders or cancelling would affect the total.
Compare UAE free zones
Compare permitted activities, workspaces, visa quotas and renewal fees using current authority terms. Confirm how you will serve mainland customers and what additional permissions or arrangements might apply.
IFZA
If you want several business activities under one licence, ask which activities can be combined and whether any need separate approval.
Meydan Free Zone
Compare the workspace in your quote with the space and documentary evidence your customers or bank may require.
RAKEZ
If you need storage or industrial premises, compare facility specifications and fit-out costs as well as the licence itself.
SPC Free Zone
If your work combines publishing, creative work or commerce, check which activities the licence covers and whether any need a separate approval.
Shams
For media or creative work, confirm which activities are licensed and how the package handles any visas and workspace you need.
Ajman Free Zone
If you sell physical goods, map how stock will be received, stored and distributed and confirm any customs arrangements before choosing a package.