Hi Daniel,

I’m Nurain, and if you’re setting up a business in Dubai for the first time, I’d recommend following the process step by step rather than choosing a licence based only on price.

The main steps are:

1. Choose your business activity and jurisdiction – Decide what you want to do and whether a Dubai mainland or free zone setup is more suitable for your business.
2. Select the legal structure – Choose the appropriate structure, such as an LLC, FZE, FZC, or branch, depending on your ownership and activity.
3. Reserve your trade name – Submit your preferred company names to the relevant authority and obtain approval.
4. Prepare the documents – Usually, this includes passport copies, photographs, proof of address, shareholder details and, for certain activities, a business plan or additional approvals.
5. Arrange your office space – Depending on the licence and jurisdiction, you may choose a physical office, serviced office, flexi-desk or coworking space.
6. Apply for the trade licence – Once the required documents, approvals and fees are completed, the authority issues your trade licence and incorporation documents.
7. Complete immigration and banking formalities – If required, apply for establishment cards and residence visas, and then proceed with opening your UAE business bank account.

One important point is that the right jurisdiction and activity should be decided before you start the application, because they affect your licence cost, office requirements, visa eligibility and banking options.