Company setup in Dubai
Dubai is the UAE's best-known commercial centre, with the widest choice of mainland districts and free zones in the country. It suits businesses that want international visibility, strong logistics and a deep pool of clients and talent.
How licensing works in Dubai
Mainland companies license through the Department of Economy and Tourism with a registered tenancy. Free zones such as DMCC, IFZA, DAFZA and Meydan have their own authorities and packages.
Choose by customers, activity, premises and budget. Each area page below explains who it suits and what to check before you sign a lease.
Business areas in Dubai
Business Bay
Business district · Best for consultants, agencies and trading firms
Downtown Dubai
Premium district · Best for advisers, luxury and corporate offices
DIFC
Financial free zone · Best for fintech, funds, advisers and law firms
Dubai Marina
Waterfront district · Best for hospitality, marine and lifestyle businesses
Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)
Free zone towers · Best for traders, consultants and holding structures
Deira
Trading district · Best for importers, exporters and traders
Bur Dubai
Established district · Best for small service firms, clinics and agencies
Al Quoz
Industrial and creative area · Best for workshops, warehouses, studios and galleries
Jebel Ali (JAFZA)
Free zone and port · Best for logistics, manufacturing and large traders
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
Technology free zone · Best for start-ups, software and e-commerce
Dubai Internet City
Technology free zone · Best for software, cloud and fintech companies
Dubai Media City
Media free zone · Best for agencies, publishers and content companies
Dubai South
Airport free zone · Best for logistics, aviation and e-commerce
Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)
Airport free zone · Best for importers, aviation and technology firms
Meydan Free Zone
Free zone · Best for freelancers, small traders and consultants
Dubai Design District (d3)
Creative free zone · Best for designers, fashion and art businesses
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC)
Healthcare free zone · Best for clinics, labs and medical education
Dubai Investments Park (DIP)
Industrial community · Best for manufacturers, distributors and contractors
Al Barsha
Mixed-use area · Best for clinics, training centres and retail shops
Jumeirah
Beachfront district · Best for salons, clinics and boutique studios
Al Nahda (Dubai)
Border district · Best for small traders, shops and service firms
Frequently asked questions
Which authority licenses mainland companies in Dubai?
Mainland licences in Dubai are issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Free zones have their own authorities.
Which area of Dubai is best for my business?
It depends on your activity, clients and budget. Browse the 21 areas below, then send us your plan and we recommend one in writing.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Dubai?
For many activities, yes, on the mainland and in free zones. Some regulated activities have specific rules, which we confirm first.
Planning a business in Dubai?
Tell us your activity and plan. We reply with the recommended route, an itemised proposal and the next steps.