BUSINESS SETUP

Jurisdictions

Understanding where to establish your business in the UAE is one of the most important decisions you will make. Each jurisdiction offers distinct advantages depending on your activity, ownership structure, and operational goals.

CHOOSE YOUR JURISDICTION

Three Pathways to Establishing Your Business in the UAE

The UAE offers multiple jurisdiction types, each with its own regulatory framework, ownership rules, and operational scope. WiseWhiz helps you evaluate the options and select the structure that best aligns with your business objectives.

Free Zone

A free zone company is established within one of the UAE’s designated economic zones and licensed by the relevant free zone authority. Free zones offer streamlined setup, tax advantages, and full foreign ownership.

Key Features
  • 100% foreign ownership
  • 0% corporate tax on qualifying income
  • 0% import and re-export duties
  • Simplified incorporation process
  • Industry-specific zones for targeted sectors
  • Dedicated visa allocation
Best For

International businesses, e-commerce, tech startups, consultancies, and trading companies that primarily operate outside the UAE or within the free zone.

Mainland

A mainland company is licensed by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and permitted to operate throughout Dubai and across the UAE. Mainland businesses can trade directly with the local market.

Key Features
  • 100% foreign ownership (since 2021 reforms)
  • Unrestricted trade within the UAE market
  • Ability to bid on government contracts
  • No limitations on office location
  • Flexible visa allocation based on office size
  • Broader range of permitted activities
Best For

Businesses that need to trade directly with the local UAE market, retail operations, restaurants, construction firms, and companies requiring government contracts.

Offshore / Holding

An offshore company is a legal entity established in an approved offshore jurisdiction within the UAE, typically used for international asset holding, share ownership, and cross-border structuring.

Key Features
  • 100% foreign ownership
  • 0% corporate and personal tax
  • Asset protection and privacy
  • No physical office requirement
  • Ideal for holding shares and IP
  • Can open UAE bank accounts
Best For

International investors, holding companies, asset protection structures, IP holding, and businesses seeking cross-border structuring solutions.

POPULAR FREE ZONES

UAE Free Zones We Work With

WiseWhiz has established relationships across all major UAE free zones. We help you identify the best jurisdiction based on your business activity, budget, and long-term strategy.

DMCC
IFZA
DIFC
Meydan Free Zone
Dubai South
RAKEZ
JAFZA
Abu Dhabi Global Market
Sharjah Media City
Dubai Internet City
Dubai Healthcare City
Ajman Free Zone

Find the Right Jurisdiction for Your Business

Book a consultation and let our team recommend the best jurisdiction based on your business activity, goals, and budget.

BOOK A CONSULTATION