For entrepreneurs worldwide, the UAE has become the go-to destination to build, live, and grow. The process is refreshingly direct: set up a company, and you gain the right to live and work here through a residence visa. It’s one of the simplest, most secure ways to make the Emirates your long-term base.
What makes this route so appealing is how business-friendly the country is. There’s no personal income tax, and the 9% corporate tax only kicks in above AED 375,000 in profits. Everything else you earn can be reinvested in your company. Add to that world-class infrastructure, a safe environment, and a globally connected lifestyle – and it’s easy to see why the UAE consistently ranks number one in the world for entrepreneurship.
This guide walks you through every part of the process: how it works, what it costs, and the real advantages of securing UAE residency through company formation. You’ll also see why thousands of founders choose Creative Zone to make it happen.
What is UAE residency through company formation?
In simple terms, it’s a residence visa that comes with setting up a company in the Emirates. Once your business is licensed, you qualify for a visa that allows you to live and work here legally, open bank accounts, and sponsor dependents.
These visas usually last two to three years, depending on where the company is registered, and are renewable. Because the visa is tied to your business, you control it – not an employer. That independence is what draws so many freelancers, consultants, and investors to the UAE.
Benefits of obtaining UAE residency through company formation
There are dozens of reasons people choose this path, but the main advantages come down to ownership freedom, tax relief, family stability, and the lifestyle that follows.
100% foreign ownership and business flexibility
Until recently, foreign investors needed a local sponsor to operate in the UAE mainland. That’s changed. Today, you can own 100% of your business in most sectors and all free zones. You call the shots, keep the profits, and scale at your own pace. Free zones make it even easier with affordable setup packages designed for startups, solo consultants, and SMEs.
Tax advantages and access to UAE’s double tax treaties
With zero personal tax and a light corporate structure, the UAE offers one of the most generous tax environments in the world. And with over 140 double-tax treaties, you’re protected from being taxed twice on global income. For international founders, that’s a significant financial edge.
Residency for family and dependents
Once you hold a residence visa, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and domestic staff. Dependent visas align with yours, making renewals straightforward. Families relocating to the UAE gain stability and access to quality schools, healthcare, and a safe, cosmopolitan way of life.
Banking and investment opportunities
Residency simplifies financial operations. You’ll be able to open local bank accounts, apply for credit, and invest in regulated markets. Most banks require an Emirates ID, so this visa gives you everything you need to build credit history and manage funds legitimately within the country.
Global mobility and lifestyle benefits
Few places match the UAE for security, cleanliness, and access to global markets. Living here means working from a world hub – close to Asia, Africa, and Europe – with direct flights almost anywhere. The standard of living is high, the pace of innovation is faster, and the community of entrepreneurs is one of the strongest anywhere.
Eligibility for UAE residency through company formation
Anyone aged 18 or above can apply for residency by forming a company. You’ll need a valid passport, clean record, and a UAE-issued trade license (either mainland or free zone). Most jurisdictions ask for proof of share ownership – usually around AED 50,000 in share capital – plus health insurance and a standard medical check once you’re in the country.
Freelancers and solo founders typically opt for free-zone structures that keep costs low and administration light, making them ideal for first-time applicants.
Step-by-step process to obtain UAE residency through company formation
The steps to getting UAE residency through company formation include choosing your business activity and jurisdiction, registering your company and securing your trade license, applying for your establishment card and entry permit, completing medical checks and Emirates ID processing, and sponsoring family members and dependents.
Step 1: Choose your business activity and jurisdiction
Pick your main business activity – consulting, trading, design, tech, or another service – and decide where you want to base it. Mainland setups allow trade across the UAE, while free zones focus on low-tax operations and 100% ownership. Each authority also sets a limit on how many visas your license can support, based on your office space.
Creative Zone’s advisors help compare these options so you can start in the right place from day one.
Step 2: Register your company and obtain trade license
Once you’ve chosen, you’ll register the company with the appropriate authority. This stage covers trade-name approval, preparing and signing your Memorandum of Association, submitting shareholder documents, and paying setup fees. After approval, you’ll receive your business license – your official ticket to operate and sponsor visas.
Step 3: Apply for establishment card and entry permit
Next comes your establishment card, which allows the company to apply for visas. You’ll also receive an entry permit to enter or re-enter the UAE (if you’re abroad) and begin the visa stamping process.
Step 4: Complete medical test, Emirates ID
Every resident completes a medical test and biometric scan for the Emirates ID. Once cleared, your visa is stamped in your passport, and your Emirates ID acts as your official identity for banking, utilities, and travel.
Step 5: Sponsor family members and dependents (optional)
After your visa is active, you can bring your family. You’ll need to present marriage or birth certificates, a tenancy contract, and proof of income – generally AED 10,000 to 15,000 per month – to complete sponsorship.
Documents required for company formation and UAE residency
To apply for company formation and residency, prepare the following paperwork:
• Passport copies of all shareholders and directors
• Passport-size photographs
• Trade name reservation certificate
• Memorandum of Association (MOA)
• Proof of residential address (utility bill or tenancy contract)
• Entry permit (if applying from outside the UAE)
• Bank reference letter or financial proof
• Medical fitness certificate
• Valid health insurance
• Emirates ID application form
Creative Zone ensures all documents are properly formatted, attested, and submitted to the right authorities, helping clients avoid delays or rejections.
Cost of obtaining UAE residency through company formation
The total cost of securing UAE residency through company formation varies depending on jurisdiction, business activity, visa quota, and additional services. As a guideline:
• Free zone company setup: from AED 12,000 to AED 25,000 (includes trade license and registration)
• Mainland setup: from AED 15,000 to AED 30,000 depending on activity and location
• Investor visa processing: around AED 3,000 to AED 6,000 per person
• Medical tests and Emirates ID: approximately AED 1,000 to AED 1,500
• Dependent visas: usually AED 3,000 to AED 5,000 each
Many free zones now offer all-in-one packages that combine the license, workspace, and visas for a single fee. Creative Zone helps identify the most efficient and transparent option for every client.
Maintaining your UAE residency status
Residency isn’t a one-time task. You’ll need to renew your trade license annually, keep medical insurance active, and enter the UAE at least once every six months to keep your visa valid. When it’s time for renewal, Creative Zone handles the paperwork so you can focus on running your business rather than chasing approvals.
Why choose Creative Zone for your UAE residency and company setup
Obtaining UAE residency through company formation is smooth and secure when handled by the experts. Creative Zone provides end-to-end support – from selecting your jurisdiction to visa issuance – ensuring every stage is handled efficiently.
Our team assists clients with everything from identifying the right business activity and jurisdiction to preparing trade license documentation, guiding you through visa and Emirates ID processing, and handling family sponsorship and PRO services.
We also support you with opening corporate bank accounts and maintaining compliance after setup. With over 75,000 successful setups, Creative Zone has become one of the UAE’s most trusted advisors for entrepreneurs and investors pursuing business setup in Dubai and long-term residency. From day one, we help you establish your business and secure your future in the UAE with confidence.
Are you ready to start your dream business in the UAE? Contact Creative Zone today to take that first step.
Frequently asked questions
How can I get residency in Dubai by company formation?
Register a company in a free zone or on the mainland. Once your trade license is issued, you can apply for an investor or partner visa tied to your business.
Can you own 100% of a company in the UAE?
Yes. Most free zones and many mainland sectors now allow full foreign ownership, so you can retain full control and profits.
Can my family get UAE residency through my company?
They can. Once your investor visa is approved, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and household staff, provided you meet the salary and accommodation criteria.
What is the minimum investment required for UAE residency?
There’s no nationwide minimum, but most free zones offer entry-level packages starting at about AED 12,000, which include your trade license and visa eligibility.
