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Find clear answers to the most common questions about setting up, licensing, and living as a business owner in the UAE.
The UAE offers three main company formation options — Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore. Each has distinct advantages depending on your goals, such as local market access, 100% ownership, or international trading benefits.
With proper documentation, most UAE companies can be registered within 3 to 10 business days. Timelines may vary depending on the business activity, chosen jurisdiction, and approval requirements.
No, you don’t have to be a resident to start a business in the UAE. However, you’ll need a local service agent or a registered business consultant like Nuvorra to complete the formation process and obtain your trade licence.
You’ll typically need a valid passport copy, proof of address, passport-sized photos, a business name proposal, and relevant application forms. Some business activities may require additional approvals or certifications.
Yes. Once your company licence is issued, Nuvorra can help you open a UAE corporate bank account with leading local and international banks, ensuring compliance with all KYC and regulatory requirements.
A Mainland company is licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and allows you to trade freely across the UAE and internationally, as well as work with government entities.
Yes. In most business sectors, full foreign ownership is now permitted in the UAE Mainland, eliminating the need for a local Emirati partner for many commercial activities.
Mainland businesses can operate anywhere in the UAE, take on government contracts, and have no limits on the number of visas under the company, making them ideal for growth and expansion.
The cost varies based on business activity, number of visas, and office space requirements. On average, setup costs start from AED 12,000 and increase depending on the business structure.
Yes, having an office address is mandatory for Mainland companies. Nuvorra can assist with flexible office solutions, including shared and virtual office options that meet DED requirements.
A Free Zone company operates within a designated business zone that offers benefits like 100% foreign ownership, zero import/export taxes, and simplified setup procedures.
Popular Free Zones include IFZA, Meydan, RAKEZ, and Sharjah Media City, each catering to specific industries and offering flexible business packages for entrepreneurs.
A Free Zone company cannot trade directly in the UAE Mainland. However, it can work through a local distributor or form partnerships with Mainland companies to reach local customers.
Most Free Zones offer investor and employee visas that allow owners and staff to live and work in the UAE. The number of visas depends on your office size and business activity.
Registration can often be completed within 3–5 working days, depending on the Free Zone and the completeness of your documentation. Nuvorra ensures fast approval and end-to-end support.
Yes. Business owners and investors are eligible for UAE residency through company formation, allowing them to live, work, and sponsor family members in the UAE.
UAE residency visas are typically valid for 2 or 3 years, depending on the type of licence and jurisdiction. Renewal is straightforward with the right documentation and valid business status.
Yes, once you have a valid residency visa and meet the salary requirements, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and domestic staff under UAE regulations.
Applicants must undergo a medical fitness test, obtain Emirates ID biometrics, and provide documents such as a valid passport, visa application form, and passport-sized photos.
Nuvorra handles the entire residency process — from visa application and medical tests to Emirates ID registration — ensuring a smooth transition for you and your family.
