PRO Partner Group provides a complete range of company set up solutions to help entrepreneurs turn business ideas into fully-fledged companies. We combine our in-depth knowledge of government regulations and international standards with experience of the Middle East market to accelerate the company formation process and deliver valuable services that benefit our clients.
PRO Partner Group has formed over a thousand companies in the UAE Mainland and Freezone jurisdictions. Our clients are always particularly interested in the key differences between Freezone and Mainland company set up. With our expert knowledge of the market, we help advise our clients on the best jurisdiction based on the company's business activities and target market.
Free Zones:
There are over 40 free zones in the UAE. Typically, free zones have been established to accommodate specific industries with technology and infrastructure in place to support certain business activities. For example, Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA) has a core focus on logistics and aviation sectors.
Mainland:
A mainland company is an onshore company licensed by Department of Economic Development (DED). Mainland companies can conduct business in a majority of industrial, commercial, trading, professional or tourism activities. Mainland companies are known for their less restrictive trading opportunities.
PRO Partner Group provides a complete range of company set up solutions to help entrepreneurs turn business ideas into fully-fledged companies. We combine our in-depth knowledge of government regulations and international standards with experience of the Middle East market to accelerate the company formation process and deliver valuable services that benefit our clients.
PRO Partner Group has formed over a thousand companies in the UAE Mainland and Freezone jurisdictions. Our clients are always particularly interested in the key differences between Freezone and Mainland company set up. With our expert knowledge of the market, we help advise our clients on the best jurisdiction based on the company's business activities and target market.
Free Zones:
There are over 40 free zones in the UAE. Typically, free zones have been established to accommodate specific industries with technology and infrastructure in place to support certain business activities. For example, Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA) has a core focus on logistics and aviation sectors.
Mainland:
A mainland company is an onshore company licensed by Department of Economic Development (DED). Mainland companies can conduct business in a majority of industrial, commercial, trading, professional or tourism activities. Mainland companies are known for their less restrictive trading opportunities.
Posted 03/03/2023
| Considerations | Mainland | Freezone |
| Conduct Business | No geographical restrictions Inside or outside the UAE Allows more business activities Bid for UAE government contracts Year-end audit required Can apply for ADNOC access | Within the registered freezone and internationally No services or products can be sold into Mainland UAE Limited access to government contracts Work with ADNOC generally not possible |
| Ownership Structure | Can be 100% foreign owned (for majority of business activities) Abu Dhabi Activities List Dubai Activities List May require or elect to have local corporate nominee partner | Full foreign ownership and control |
| Office Space | Minimum requirement of 140-200 sqft office space Choice of office location in the emirate and can establish multiple branches Virtual office space options available for 1-2 visas For certain activities in Abu Dhabi - no office space requirement | Office space not always required Generally office costs are higher Lower cost 'virtual office' space options available for 1-2 visas |
| Visas | No visa restrictions (subject to workspace and labour quota) Visa process direct with immigration Must be registered with Ministry of Labour, pay staff through WPS and provide Health Insurance | Some visa restrictions depending on the freezone (ranging from 1-6) Visa process through freezone authority Special permissions may be required for staff |
| Governing Bodies | Department of Economic Development Dubai Municipality Ministry of Labour | FreeZone Authority - each freezone has its own regulations and government regulatory body |
| Tax | No personal income tax 9% Corporate Tax from June 2023 on net profits exceeding AED375,000 | No personal income tax 'Tax Holidays' offered for each freezone Exempt from Corporate Tax (June 2023) assuming trade is based outside of UAE or net profits less that AED375,000 |
| Cost | May initially be a larger fee, but provide a more inexpensive path to growth - PPG experts can provide guidance best suited to your business Abu Dhabi gov fee have been reduced by 50% | May initially be less expensive to establish, but be mindful of company growth as further costs may be required for staff office space, etc. - PPG experts can provide guidance best suited to your business |
| Import/Export | Can import and trade within in the UAE - within their activity range | Exempt from import and export duties Cannot import or trade in the UAE or with UAE counterparties - must use an onshore agent |
