Plain answers, directly.

Common questions

• How much does it cost to set up a UAE company?

  Fixed, AED-denominated quotes start at AED 12,500 (free zone Starter) and scale to AED 32,000+ for premium free zones like DIFC / ADGM. Mainland licences run AED 15,000–45,000 depending on activity and jurisdiction.

• How long does registration take?

  5–7 working days for most free zones (with documents complete), 7–14 for mainland, and 10–15 for offshore. Visas add 7–10 days. Banking typically follows within 2–4 weeks after Emirates ID issuance.

• Do I need to visit the UAE in person?

  Registration can be done fully remotely. You must visit the UAE once for Emirates ID biometrics, a five-minute medical, and (for most banks) a short KYC meeting.

• Can I own 100% of a UAE company as a foreigner?

  Yes. Free zones have always permitted 100% foreign ownership. Since 2021, mainland LLC activities also allow 100% foreign ownership across most categories.

• Which bank is best for a new UAE company?

  We work with twelve UAE banks. The right choice depends on your activity, expected turnover, signatory residency, and banking needs. We pre-qualify before applying — saving months of wasted time with the wrong bank.

• Do I have to register for VAT?

  Mandatory when taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 over 12 months. Voluntary registration is possible above AED 187,500. Many founders choose voluntary registration early to reclaim input VAT.

• How does the 9% Corporate Tax affect my company?

  All UAE juridical persons must register for Corporate Tax. Small-Business Relief (0%) applies up to AED 3M taxable revenue. Free-zone companies can qualify for 0% on qualifying income (QFZP), but the test is strict and must be reassessed annually.

• What does Expandub actually do end-to-end?

  One senior consultant handles: jurisdiction and activity selection, KYC, licence issuance, visa processing, bank account introduction, Corporate Tax and VAT registration, bookkeeping, UBO filings, and annual renewals. One point of contact, one AED quote, one accountable relationship.

• Can you handle complex structures?

  Yes. Holding-operating structures, offshore sister companies, DIFC / ADGM / foundation setups, trust-nominee arrangements, and cross-border group restructures are all within scope for our senior bench.

• How do I get started?

  Book a twenty-minute consultation via the contact page or the calculator. We reply within one business hour, typically faster.