Dubai Business Setup Checklist
30 steps to setting up a business in Dubai: mainland vs free zone decision, trade name, MOA, office lease, bank account, licences, and VAT registration.
Signed by: Sarah Al Qasimi (Lead Editor). Fact-checked by the full editorial team.
Setting up a business in Dubai is faster than in many countries but requires careful sequencing — the steps must happen in the right order. You cannot open a business bank account without a trade licence, cannot get a trade licence without an office lease (in many cases), and cannot sponsor employees without an immigration card.
This checklist covers the full journey from initial decisions through to operating compliantly. It is applicable to both mainland Dubai company formation (DED-licensed) and the most common free zone structures (DMCC, DIFC, ADGM, DAFZA, and others).
Work through this list with a licensed business setup consultant or PRO service — they will handle many government portal submissions on your behalf. Budget AED 15,000–50,000 for setup costs depending on the structure, office type, and any visa applications.
Dubai Business Setup Checklist
30 items — tick as you go. Progress is saved in your browser.