There's no single fixed cost - UAE company setup ranges widely depending on jurisdiction (mainland vs free zone), the specific free zone chosen, licensed activity, number of visas, and office type. Budget-focused free zones can start meaningfully lower than premium zones or a full mainland setup with a physical office. The three components that make up almost any quote are the licence fee, visa allocation cost, and office/flexi-desk fee - and it's the combination of these three, not a single number, that determines the real total.
Check your own exact figures with the Business Setup Cost Calculator - free, in under a minute, no sign-up required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a standard 'average' cost for UAE company setup?
Not really - the range is too wide across free zones, activities and package types for a single average to be meaningful; getting an estimate for your specific situation is more useful.
Does the cost include visa fees?
Not always in a headline quote - check specifically whether visa allocation is included or a separate cost, since this is a common source of confusion.
Is mainland always more expensive than free zone?
Not necessarily - it depends on the specific activity, office requirement and package compared.
Does company size affect the cost significantly?
Yes - more visas and larger office requirements generally increase the total cost.
How can I get an accurate estimate for my specific business?
Run the cost calculator with your actual activity, visa count and office needs for a realistic estimate rather than relying on a generic figure.