Setting up a business in Dubai from Australia can feel daunting — different time zones, unfamiliar regulations, and endless free-zone ads promising the world. Yet more than 4,600 Australians have completed a successful company setup in Dubai since 2020, according to Dubai Economy & Tourism.
When your company structure, paperwork, and banking are handled correctly from day one, Dubai’s 0–9% corporate tax, 100% foreign ownership, and world-class logistics provide an unbeatable launch pad for global growth.
Choose your business activity and ownership model
Decide between mainland or free zone registration
Reserve trade name and obtain initial approval remotely
Submit licence application and incorporation documents
Open a UAE bank account with AUD corridors
Apply for investor or partner residence visa
100% foreign ownership across 40+ free zones and most mainland licences.
Fast timelines: trade licence in as little as five working days; visas in 10–14.
Zero import duties inside designated free zones; 0–9% UAE corporate tax.
Access to a banking network covering AED, USD, EUR, and AUD multi-currency accounts.
Long-term Golden, Green, or Investor visas for founders and families.
Dubai offers a unique advantage for entrepreneurs looking to expand globally. With its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and supportive Dubai business environment, it connects you effortlessly to major markets across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Setting up a company in Dubai not only provides access to tax-friendly policies and simplified regulations but also positions your business at the heart of international trade and innovation.
Choosing the right business structure is critical for compliance, taxation, and banking success in Dubai.
| Structure | Ideal For | Ownership | Typical First-Year Cost* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Zone FZE | E-commerce, SaaS, IP holding | 100 % foreign | AED 16,000–28,000 |
| Mainland LLC | Trading inside UAE, government tenders | 100 % foreign for most sectors | AED 28,000–42,000 |
| Offshore IBC | Asset holding, invoicing abroad | 100 % foreign | AED 12,000–18,000 |
Digital submission of KYC, passport, and corporate documents
Trade name reservation and initial approval
E-licence issuance and MoA signing
Immigration file, Emirates ID, and investor visa
Bank account opening with AUD corridors
| Cost Item | Free Zone FZE (AED) | Mainland LLC (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Licence & Registration | 11,500 | 18,000 |
| One Visa Quota & Card | 3,750 | 4,600 |
| Establishment Card | 675 | 750 |
| PO Box & E-channel | 1,100 | 1,400 |
| Legal Drafting/Translation | 950 | 1,200 |
| DubaiInvest Advisory Fee | 5,000 | 5,000 |
| Total | 22,975 | 30,950 |
Most clients receive their trade licence within 5–7 business days once documents are cleared.
The fixed company setup costs include government licence fees, immigration card, and visa fees. Other expenses depend on your chosen structure and are often negotiable.
Yes, DubaiInvest.com.au makes company setup possible remotely through verified e-signatures and a notarised Power of Attorney, saving you time and travel.
Depending on your investment, company setup in Dubai can provide access to Investor visas, Employee visas, Green visas, and even 10-year Golden visas.
Possibly – this depends on your residency status and CFC rules. We work with your tax adviser to structure your company setup for optimal outcomes.
