Business Setup Packages in the UAE: What They Actually Include
A UAE business setup package bundles everything you need to go from idea to licensed company in one fixed-price offer. Packages differ by jurisdiction (free zone, mainland, or offshore), the number of business activities, and the add-ons such as visas, office space, and PRO services. The starting prices below are the same published figures used across DubaiSetupNow’s offers.
Standard Package Tiers in 2026
| Package | Typical Price | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Free Zone | AED 5,900–6,500 | Trade license, 1–3 business activities, office/desk space, visa eligibility. Best for solo founders and online businesses. |
| Premium Free Zone | AED 9,500–33,000 | Trade license with 4–5 activities, premium office address, flexible desk, visa quota. Prestige zones such as DMCC and DIFC are priced at the higher end. |
| Mainland | AED 14,500+ | DED trade license, no location restriction, trade anywhere in the UAE, government/retail contracts, unlimited business type. |
| Offshore | AED 15,000–20,000 | International holding structure, asset protection, no local presence required, 100% ownership. |
What Is and Isn’t Included
Most advertised package prices cover the license and basic setup. Confirm whether your quote includes:
- Trade license fee (renewed annually) – always included.
- Business activity fee – number of activities varies by package.
- Office or desk space – free zones require a registered address; cheaper packages bundle a flexi-desk.
- Visa & Emirates ID – typically a separate add-on (AED 5,000–8,000 per visa).
- PRO / government submission support – sometimes billed separately.
DubaiSetupNow’s advisory packages include consultation, trade name reservation guidance, document preparation, application filing support, and a dedicated relationship manager until launch. All licenses and approvals are issued directly by the relevant UAE authority.
Which Package Should You Choose?
- Freelancers, consultants, and online sellers – an economy free zone package (Ajman, RAKEZ, SRTIP) keeps costs around AED 5,900–6,500.
- E-commerce and trading companies – DMCC or IFZA premium packages give a strong global address and trade support.
- Businesses serving UAE government or local retail – mainland is the only option that removes location restrictions.
- Holding companies and asset protection – offshore (RAK ICC, JAFZA offshore) is the standard choice.
Flexible Payment
Packages can be paid in four interest-free instalments through Tabby or Tamara, so you can start your application now and spread the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to register a company in the UAE? The lowest-cost free zones (RAK ICC, Ajman FTZ, SRTIP, UAQ) offer licenses from around AED 5,900, making them the most affordable entry point.
Does the package price include my residency visa? Usually not. Visas are quoted separately and cost roughly AED 5,000–8,000 including Emirates ID and medical.
How long does a package setup take? Free zone packages are typically completed in 3–7 business days; mainland packages take 2–4 weeks.
Can I change my business activity later? Yes. Additional activities can be added to your license at renewal time for a small fee.
