Setup Guide
Setting Up a UAE Free Zone Company from India
A step-by-step guide for Indian entrepreneurs — documents, costs, recommended free zones, banking, and tax considerations.
Why UAE from India?
0% corporate and personal income tax in UAE free zones
UAE-India non-oil trade hit $38B in 2025 — direct access to a massive trade corridor
Residence visa and Emirates ID for you and your family
100% foreign ownership — no local sponsor required in free zones
Step-by-Step Setup Process
- 1
Choose your free zone
Pick a zone that matches your business activity and budget. IFZA, Meydan, and RAKEZ are popular with Indian entrepreneurs for their low cost. DMCC suits trading and commodity businesses.
- 2
Gather your documents
Passport copy, recent passport-size photo, proof of address (utility bill or bank statement), and bank reference letter. Some zones require an apostilled/attested degree for regulated activities.
- 3
Apply for your license
Submit your application online or via a registered agent. Most free zones process applications within 3–7 working days.
- 4
Receive your trade license
Once approved, you receive your trade license and Memorandum of Association. This is your legal entity in the UAE.
- 5
Apply for your UAE residence visa
Most free zones bundle a 2-year residence visa with the license package. You'll need a medical fitness test and Emirates ID registration.
- 6
Open a UAE corporate bank account
With your trade license and visa, you can open a business bank account. Emirates NBD, Mashreq, and RAKBANK are commonly used by Indian entrepreneurs.
Documents Required
Standard requirements for Indian applicants. Your free zone may have additional requirements.
- Valid Indian passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Passport-size photographs (white background)
- Proof of address in India (utility bill or bank statement, not older than 3 months)
- Bank reference letter from your Indian bank
- PAN card copy (some banks require this when opening a UAE account)
- For regulated activities: attested degree or professional qualification certificates
Cost Overview
Typical first-year costs for Indian entrepreneurs setting up in a UAE free zone.
Budget option
AED 12K–16K
License + 1 visa (IFZA, Meydan, RAKEZ)
Mid-range
AED 20K–35K
License + office + 2–3 visas (DMCC, JAFZA)
Premium
AED 40K+
Regulated zones, physical office (DIFC, ADGM)
Visa & Residency
A UAE free zone trade license entitles you to apply for a UAE residence visa. Standard packages include a 2–3 year visa for the company owner. You can sponsor dependents (spouse, children) on your visa.
- Entry permit (60 days to complete the process inside the UAE)
- Medical fitness test and Emirates ID registration
- Residence visa stamped in passport (2–3 year validity)
Banking for Indian Business Owners
Emirates NBD, Mashreq, and RAKBANK have dedicated NRI/Indian business desks. ADCB and FAB are also widely used. Expect 4–8 weeks for account opening. You'll need your trade license, visa, passport, and proof of UAE address. Some banks require a minimum deposit (AED 10,000–50,000).
Tax Implications
General information only
This is not legal or tax advice. Consult a qualified tax adviser for your personal situation.
India and the UAE have a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA). UAE-sourced income is generally exempt from Indian tax if you are a UAE tax resident (183+ days/year in UAE). Indian residents must report foreign assets under FEMA and comply with RBI guidelines. This is general information — consult a CA for personal tax advice.
See how much you could save vs India's 25.17% corporate tax rate.
View India vs UAE tax comparison →Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set up a UAE company from India without visiting the UAE?
Do I need to attest my Indian documents?
What is the cheapest free zone for Indian entrepreneurs?
Will I be double-taxed in India and the UAE?
How many visas can I get with my UAE free zone license?
Can I run my Indian business alongside my UAE free zone company?
Ready to set up your UAE company?
Get a free consultation with our UAE free zone specialists. We'll match you to the best zone for your business and budget.