Should I set up a mainland or free zone company in Dubai?
Signed by: Sarah Al Qasimi (Lead Editor). Fact-checked by the full editorial team.
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Related Questions
What is the corporate tax rate in Dubai?
9% on taxable profit exceeding AED 375,000 per year, effective from June 2023. Profits below AED 375,000 are taxed at 0%. Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZP) pay 0% on qualifying income from outside the UAE. Corporate tax registration is mandatory for all UAE businesses regardless of profit level. File via FTA's EmaraTax portal.
How long does it take to get a business licence in Dubai?
Free zone licences: 3–10 working days with all documents in order. Mainland DED licences: 2–4 weeks depending on activity approvals needed from regulatory bodies (health, education, financial activities take longer). Express services in most free zones process in 24–48 hours for an extra fee of AED 500–2,000.