Question 1

How much does it cost to set up a company in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Setting up a company in Dubai costs between AED 5,500 and AED 50,000+ depending on the free zone and package. The cheapest option is Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) from AED 5,500. RAKEZ starts from AED 8,500, IFZA from AED 12,900, Meydan from AED 14,500, DMCC from AED 18,500, JAFZA from AED 22,000, and ADGM from AED 28,500. Mainland company formation starts from around AED 15,000. These costs typically include the trade license but exclude visa fees and office rent.

Question 2

What is the cheapest free zone in UAE?

Accepted Answer

Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is the cheapest free zone in UAE, with packages starting from AED 5,500 for a basic trade license. RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone) is the second most affordable at AED 8,500, followed by SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) at AED 11,500 and IFZA at AED 12,900. These budget-friendly zones offer full 100% foreign ownership, zero tax, and fast setup.

Question 3

How much is a trade license in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

A Dubai trade license costs between AED 5,500 and AED 50,000+ depending on the type and jurisdiction. Free zone licenses start from AED 5,500 (Ajman Free Zone) to AED 28,500 (ADGM). Mainland DED licenses range from AED 10,000 to AED 25,000+ depending on your business activity. Annual renewal costs are typically 60–80% of the initial license fee.

Question 4

What is the cost of DMCC license in Dubai 2026?

Accepted Answer

DMCC company formation starts from AED 18,500 for a basic Flexi Desk setup with 1 activity and 2 visas. A standard Business package with 3 activities and 4 visas costs around AED 26,900. An Elite package with unlimited activities, private office and 6+ visas costs AED 44,500. These prices include the trade license, registered address and company documents.

Question 5

How much does an IFZA license cost?

Accepted Answer

IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) license packages start from AED 12,900 for a Flexi package with 1 activity and virtual office. The Growth package with 3 activities and flexi desk costs AED 19,500. The full Corporate package with unlimited activities and private office is AED 34,500. IFZA is one of the most cost-effective free zones in Dubai.

Question 6

What are the hidden costs of UAE company formation?

Accepted Answer

Beyond the license fee, common additional costs in UAE company formation include: visa fees (AED 3,500–6,000 per visa), Emirates ID fees (AED 200–370), medical fitness test (AED 300–500), office or flexi desk rent (AED 5,000–50,000/year), bank account opening (sometimes with minimum deposit requirements), PRO service fees, and license renewal costs annually. Always request a full cost breakdown before proceeding.

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