How much does it cost to set up a business in Dubai?
The cost of setting up a business in Dubai varies based on the type of entity and location. Free zone companies typically range from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000, covering license fees, visa allocations, and office space. Mainland companies generally cost between AED 25,000 to AED 100,000, depending on business activities and office requirements. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 3,000–5,000 per person), office lease deposits, and initial capital requirements. VJM Global provides transparent cost estimates tailored to your specific business structure and requirements, ensuring no hidden surprises throughout the setup process.
Can Indian companies have 100% ownership of their Dubai business?
Yes, Indian companies can have 100% ownership of their Dubai business. Free zones like DMCC, JAFZA, and Dubai Silicon Oasis have always allowed complete foreign ownership. Recent mainland law amendments also permit 100% foreign ownership for most commercial activities, eliminating the previous 51% UAE partner requirement. However, certain strategic sectors such as oil and gas, banking, and specific professional services may still require local partnership or a service agent arrangement. VJM Global assesses your specific business activities and recommends the optimal ownership structure.
What is the difference between a mainland and a free zone company in Dubai?
Mainland companies can trade directly with the UAE market and operate anywhere in Dubai without restrictions, but may require physical office space and have higher setup costs. Free zone companies benefit from 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, full profit repatriation, and lower setup costs, but traditionally face restrictions on direct UAE market trading, requiring a local distributor. Recent regulations have made free zone companies more flexible. VJM Global analyzes your business model, target customers, and growth plans to recommend the structure that best serves your Dubai expansion objectives.
How long does it take to register a company in Dubai?
Dubai company registration typically takes 2–4 weeks for free zone entities and 3–6 weeks for mainland companies, depending on business activities and documentation readiness. The timeline includes name approval (2–3 days), document preparation and attestation (1–2 weeks), license issuance (3–7 days), and visa processing (1–2 weeks). Complex business activities requiring additional approvals may extend this timeframe. VJM Global expedites the process through established relationships with UAE authorities and PRO services, ensuring efficient coordination between Indian document attestation requirements and UAE regulatory procedures.
What are the tax implications for Indian companies operating in Dubai?
Dubai offers significant tax advantages, with no personal income tax. The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000, effective from June 2023, which remains highly competitive globally. Free zones may offer continued tax exemptions for qualifying activities. Indian companies must also consider transfer pricing regulations between their Indian and UAE entities, potential withholding taxes, and FEMA compliance for fund repatriation. VJM Global structures your Dubai operations for optimal tax efficiency while ensuring full compliance with both UAE and Indian tax regulations.
What ongoing compliance is required after setting up a company in Dubai?
Dubai companies must maintain several ongoing compliances, including annual trade license renewal, VAT returns (if registered), corporate tax filing, audit requirements based on revenue thresholds, visa renewals for employees, and maintenance of statutory registers. Free zone companies must also comply with specific free zone authority requirements. Additionally, companies must maintain a registered office address and keep accounting records for at least five years. VJM Global provides comprehensive ongoing compliance services, managing all regulatory deadlines and government submissions so you can focus on business growth.
What is VJM Global's process for setting up a Dubai company for an Indian business?
VJM Global follows a structured 5-step process: First, an initial consultation to assess your business objectives and recommend the most suitable UAE entity type. Second, preparation of all required documentation including MOA, shareholder resolutions, and attested certificates. Third, submission to relevant UAE authorities such as the Department of Economic Development or free zone authorities to secure your trade license. Fourth, operational setup including office lease agreements and corporate bank account opening in compliance with UAE banking and FEMA guidelines. Fifth, ongoing compliance support covering VAT, corporate tax, license renewals, and visa management.
Can my Dubai company hire employees from India, and what does the visa process involve?
Yes, your Dubai company can hire employees from India and other countries. Each company receives employment visa quotas based on office size and business activity. The process involves obtaining labor approval, entry permits, Emirates ID, and residence visas. Indian employees require documentation including educational certificates attested by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the UAE Embassy. Processing takes approximately 2–4 weeks per employee. Visa costs include government fees, medical examinations, and Emirates ID charges. VJM Global manages the complete visa process from quota applications to final visa stamping, ensuring full compliance with UAE labor and immigration laws.