Business Setup & Company Formation
End-to-end company formation across the UAE mainland, free zones and offshore registries — from activity selection and approvals to licence issuance.
Our Services
A connected set of services for every stage of your UAE journey — from choosing a jurisdiction and forming your company to structuring, compliance, banking and financial direction.
Service Overview
Most businesses need more than one of these services — often at the same time. Working with one team keeps decisions, documents and timelines consistent.
End-to-end company formation across the UAE mainland, free zones and offshore registries — from activity selection and approvals to licence issuance.
Ownership, holding and group structures designed to support control, protect assets and allow your business to expand without costly reorganisation.
Strategic guidance for market entry, licensing strategy, expansion across emirates and the governance that keeps a growing company in good order.
Financial planning, budgeting, forecasting and reporting frameworks that give owners clarity and support stronger conversations with banks and investors.
Registrations, bookkeeping and filing support that keep your company compliant with the UAE corporate tax and VAT framework.
Careful preparation of your business profile and documentation, and guidance through bank selection and due diligence.
The administrative work that keeps a UAE company running — licence renewals, amendments, government liaison and document attestation.
Business Support Services
The administrative work that keeps a UAE company in good standing — handled carefully, so you can focus on running your business.
Preparation and submission of applications with UAE government departments, including establishment cards, labour and immigration formalities.
Timely renewal of mainland, free zone and offshore licences, with reminders and coordination of supporting documents such as tenancy and insurance.
Adding or changing business activities, trade names, shareholders, managers or legal form as your company evolves.
Guidance on attesting and legalising corporate and personal documents issued inside or outside the UAE for use with UAE authorities.
Coordinating investor, partner and employee residence visa processes, including medical tests and Emirates ID registration.
Keeping registers, resolutions, beneficial ownership information and statutory records up to date and in good order.
Why MMAS Advisory
Company formation is only the beginning. We bring structure, foresight and dependable coordination to every stage — so your UAE business is built to last.
We begin with your objectives, not a package. Every recommendation is tied to how your business will operate and grow.
Structures, jurisdictions and services are selected for your situation — never pushed from a standard menu.
A working understanding of the UAE's jurisdictions, authorities and regulatory expectations informs every step.
Clear scope, realistic timelines and open communication. You always know what is happening and why.
From the first conversation to licensing, banking, tax registration and renewals — coordinated by one advisory team.
We stay involved as your business evolves, supporting new entities, expansion and ongoing compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can't find what you're looking for? Every business is different — we're happy to answer your questions directly.
Ask an AdvisorIt depends on your activity, target customers, visa requirements, office needs and long-term plans. Mainland suits businesses serving the UAE market, free zones suit international and sector-focused businesses, and offshore entities are typically used for holding and international structures. A consultation is the best way to compare the options for your situation.
Yes, in many cases. Free zone and offshore companies can be fully foreign owned, and following the 2021 amendments to the Commercial Companies Law, full foreign ownership is also available for many mainland activities. Some strategic activities remain subject to specific conditions.
The licence type depends on your activities. Commercial licences cover trading, professional licences cover services and consultancy, and industrial licences cover manufacturing. Some sectors need additional approvals. Selecting accurate activities at the outset avoids amendments later.
Requirements vary by jurisdiction and activity, but usually include shareholder passport copies, proof of address, a business profile and, for corporate shareholders, constitutional documents that may need attestation. We provide a tailored checklist once your structure is confirmed.
Timelines depend on the jurisdiction, activity, approvals required and how quickly documents are available. Some licences can be issued relatively quickly, while regulated activities take longer. We give you a realistic timeline once we understand your requirements.
Yes. We help you select suitable banks, prepare a clear business profile and organise the documentation banks request. The final decision always rests with the bank, but a well-prepared application makes the process smoother.
Most UAE companies must register for corporate tax, including free zone companies. VAT registration is mandatory once taxable supplies exceed the AED 375,000 threshold, and voluntary registration is available from AED 187,500. We help you understand and meet the obligations that apply to you.
Begin With Clarity
Speak with an MMAS advisor about your plans. We will help you understand your options, choose the right structure and move forward with confidence.