📑 In This Article
If you've searched "UAE company setup cost", you've probably seen ads saying:
That number usually reflects license registration only.
It excludes visas, office requirements, Emirates ID, banking preparation, and compliance.
At OAHKS, we help international founders build bankable UAE companies, not just paperwork entities.
Here's what UAE company setup actually costs in 2026, based on real client cases.
Quick Cost Summary (1 Visa)
| Structure | Registration Only | Realistic Total |
|---|---|---|
| Low-cost Free Zone (SHAMS/SPC/UAQ) | AED 5,500–12,000 | AED 25,000–35,000 |
| Tier-1 Free Zone (IFZA/Meydan/RAKEZ) | AED 12,000–20,000 | AED 30,000–40,000 |
| Mainland Dubai | AED 20,000+ | AED 45,000–60,000 |
Registration is cheap.
Bankable structure is not.
Free Zone Setup (What Founders Actually Pay)
Bare license:
AED 5,500–15,000
Realistic total:
AED 25,000–40,000
Includes:
- Trade license
- Residency visa
- Medical + Emirates ID
- Flexi-desk or office
- Immigration processing
- Typing centers
- Banking readiness support
Cheap free zones work for:
- ✔Consultants
- ✔Solo operators
- ✔Low-risk service businesses
They struggle for:
- ❌E-commerce
- ❌Trading
- ❌Crypto-adjacent
- ❌High transaction volume
Mainland Setup (Required for Physical Businesses)
Mainland is mandatory for:
Typical total:
AED 45,000–60,000+
Includes:
Additional Costs Most Agents Hide
The Banking Reality (Especially for African Founders)
Banks assess:
Low-tier free zones increase scrutiny.
This is why founders get licenses easily — then get stuck for months on banking.
Our Conservative Recommendation
Budget:
This avoids:
Start With Initial UAE Setup Guidance (Free)
We provide a conservative, advisor-led overview covering:
No sales pressure. No generic packages.
👉 Get Your Initial UAE Setup GuidancePersonalized, conservative advisory overview before you commit money.