UAE Jurisdictions - RFZ Global

What Are the Different Types of Company Formation in Dubai?

Choosing the right structure is one of the most important decisions you will make. Dubai offers three primary "jurisdictions," each serving a specific strategic purpose:

Dubai Mainland (Onshore)

A Mainland company is licensed by Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and is ideal for businesses looking to trade directly within the UAE market or secure government contracts. It offers no geographic restrictions on operations across the UAE, with 100% foreign ownership now available for over 1,000 activities.

Dubai Free Zones

Free Zones are specialized jurisdictions such as DMCC, IFZA, or DAFZA, designed for specific industries and well-suited for international trade, consulting, and tech startups. They offer key benefits like 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of profits, and tax advantages, including exemptions on qualifying income and import/export duties. Flexible workspace options, such as flexi-desks, also make them a cost-effective choice for entrepreneurs.

Offshore (International Business Company)

An Offshore company is a non-resident entity, meaning it cannot operate within the UAE market or provide residency visas. It is primarily used for holding global assets such as real estate, intellectual property, or shares in other companies. Offshore structures offer a high level of privacy and are generally outside the scope of UAE VAT and corporate tax for non-local activities.

What Are the Types of Business Licences Available in Dubai?

The license you choose defines your business activities and tax obligations. Under the 2026 framework, RFZ Global supports the following key categories:

1. Commercial Licence

For businesses involved in trading goods, including import, export, distribution, and storage. Common for general trading, retail, and wholesale. It's essential for leveraging the UAE's position as a global logistics hub.

2. Professional Licence

Designed for service-based businesses such as consultancies, legal, accounting, and IT services. It allows 100% foreign ownership on the Mainland and offers lower operational costs.

3. Industrial Licence

Required for manufacturing and production activities, such as food processing or textile manufacturing. A physical warehouse or factory is mandatory.

Ready to Scale Your Business?

RFZ Global offers expert company formation, trust services, and global business support.

Get Started Today

Our Comprehensive Company Setup Services

Strategic Jurisdictional Advisory

We analyze your business model to determine if a Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore structure offers the best tax advantages for 2026.

Instant Digital Licensing

We leverage government License portals to secure your trade name and initial approvals in as little as 24 hours.

Corporate Tax & AML Registration

Every new Dubai company is required to register with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). We handle your Tax Registration Number (TRN) and AML compliance filings automatically.

"Bank-Ready" Documentation

We prepare the specific Memorandum of Association (MOA) and corporate profiles required by UAE banks to fast-track your account opening.

Residency & Golden Visa Support

We manage the entire visa process for investors and employees, including medical fitness tests and Emirates ID registration.

Set Up Your Company in Dubai