Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Dubai?
Yes, in most cases. Free zone and offshore companies allow full foreign ownership, and mainland companies can be 100% foreign-owned for most commercial and industrial activities. A few activities still carry ownership conditions, which your consultant checks first.
What is the difference between mainland and free zone?
A mainland company is licensed by the emirate's economic department and can trade anywhere in the UAE. A free zone company is licensed by its zone, trades inside the zone and internationally, and usually reaches mainland customers through a distributor or a branch.
What documents do I need to start?
Usually passport copies for each shareholder, a few trade name options and your chosen business activity. Some activities need an extra approval, for example from Dubai Municipality or RERA. Caliph gives you the exact list in the free consultation.
Do I need an office to get a trade licence?
It depends on the licence. Many mainland licences need a tenancy contract, free zones offer shared desks, and Caliph also arranges instant trade licences with a virtual office.
How much does the consultation cost?
Nothing. The consultation fee is AED 0.
Do you help after the licence is issued?
Yes. Caliph handles visa processing, licence and visa renewals, PRO services, tax and legal advisory, trademark and ISO registration, and attestation.
What are the steps to set up a company in the UAE?
Six steps with Caliph: a free consultation, choosing your business activity, documentation, licence issuance, visa processing, and opening for business. Your consultant runs each step and tells you what comes next.
Which licence type do I need?
It follows your activity. Trading and most services take a commercial licence, consultants and skilled trades take a professional licence, manufacturing takes an industrial licence, and travel and hospitality businesses take a tourism licence. Caliph matches your activity to the right one.
Do I need a local sponsor?
For most activities, no. Mainland companies can be fully foreign-owned for most commercial and industrial activities, and free zone and offshore companies allow full foreign ownership. A small number of regulated activities still carry ownership conditions, and your consultant checks yours before you apply.
How long does company setup take?
It depends on the route and the activity. A licence with no extra approvals moves quickly, while activities that need a second authority, a physical office or several visas take longer. Caliph gives you a timeline for your case in the free consultation.
Do I have to register for corporate tax and VAT?
Companies in the UAE register for corporate tax, which is 9% on taxable profit above AED 375,000. VAT registration is required once taxable sales pass AED 375,000 in 12 months, and VAT is charged at 5%. Caliph’s tax advisers guide you through both.
Can Caliph help me open a business bank account?
Yes. We prepare the company file the bank asks for and introduce you to a suitable bank. The bank makes the final decision after its own checks.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
A long-term residence visa, usually valid for 10 years and renewable, for investors, entrepreneurs, specialised professionals and other eligible categories. Caliph checks which category fits you and prepares the application.
