Question 1

How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the jurisdiction and business activity, company formation typically takes 3 to 10 business days. Free zone entities can often be established faster than mainland companies. We handle the entire process to minimise delays.

Question 2

Can I own 100% of my company as a foreign national?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Since the 2020 amendment to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, foreign nationals can own 100% of mainland LLCs in most business activities. Free zone entities have always allowed full foreign ownership.

Question 3

What is the difference between a mainland and free zone company?

Accepted Answer

A mainland company can trade freely anywhere in the UAE and directly with government entities, but requires a physical office. A free zone company benefits from simplified setup, potential tax exemptions, and 100% foreign ownership, but may need a mainland distributor to trade locally outside the free zone.

Question 4

How much does it cost to start a business in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary significantly by jurisdiction and activity. A free zone licence can start from AED 10,000-15,000, while mainland LLCs typically start from AED 25,000-35,000 including licence fees, office space, and visa allocation. We provide a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

Question 5

What is the UAE corporate tax rate?

Accepted Answer

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000, effective from June 2023. Profits up to AED 375,000 are taxed at 0%. Qualifying free zone entities may be eligible for a 0% rate on qualifying income. There is no personal income tax.

Question 6

Do I need to register for VAT?

Accepted Answer

VAT registration is mandatory if your taxable supplies and imports exceed AED 375,000 per year, and voluntary if they exceed AED 187,500. The standard VAT rate is 5%. We assist with registration, filing, and ongoing compliance.

Question 7

What is a Golden Visa and how do I qualify?

Accepted Answer

The UAE Golden Visa grants 10-year residency to investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, and skilled professionals. Qualification routes include property investment of AED 2 million+, business investment, or specialised professional qualifications. We assess your eligibility and manage the application.

Question 8

Can I sponsor my family for UAE residency?

Accepted Answer

Yes. As a UAE resident, you can sponsor your spouse, children (up to age 25 if studying, daughters until marriage), and parents. Each dependent requires a valid residency visa, Emirates ID, and health insurance. We handle all family sponsorship applications.

Question 9

How long does the visa process take?

Accepted Answer

A standard residency visa can be processed in 4 to 7 business days, including medical fitness testing and Emirates ID registration. Golden Visa applications may take 2 to 4 weeks. We manage the complete timeline and keep you informed at every stage.

Question 10

Do I need a physical office to start a business?

Accepted Answer

Mainland companies require a physical office with an Ejari tenancy contract. Many free zones offer flexible options including virtual offices, co-working desks, and shared offices — significantly reducing initial overheads. We help you find the most cost-effective solution.

Question 11

Can I open a bank account remotely?

Accepted Answer

Most UAE banks require at least one in-person visit for corporate account opening, though some now offer remote onboarding for certain account types. We prepare all documentation in advance and schedule bank appointments to make the process as smooth as possible.

Question 12

What ongoing costs should I expect after company formation?

Accepted Answer

Annual costs include trade licence renewal, office rent or virtual office fees, visa renewal fees, accounting and bookkeeping, and health insurance for visa holders. Exact amounts depend on your jurisdiction, activity, and team size. We provide a full annual cost projection during consultation.

Question 13

What IT services does StartSmart offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer six core IT services: software development, websites and digital presence, AI and LLM solutions, data and analytics, business process automation, and technology consulting. Each service can be engaged independently or bundled with our business setup services for a complete launch package.

Question 14

Can I combine business setup with IT services?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Our packages are designed to pair business formation with technology — for example, establishing your company while simultaneously building your website, or setting up your entity alongside a custom software platform. This integrated approach saves time and ensures your business and technology launch together.

Question 15

How long does a typical IT project take?

Accepted Answer

Timelines vary by scope. A marketing website typically takes 4–6 weeks. Custom software development ranges from 8–16 weeks depending on complexity. AI integrations and data projects usually fall in the 6–12 week range. We provide detailed timelines during the initial consultation.

Question 16

Do you provide ongoing support after delivery?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every project includes a handover period with documentation and training. Beyond that, we offer ongoing maintenance and support agreements to keep your systems updated, secure, and performing optimally. Many clients also engage us for iterative development as their business evolves.

Everything You Need to Launch & Grow

OurServices

Business Setup & Structuring

Residency & Relocation Assistance

Tax & Compliance Services

DIFC Foundation Setup

Real Estate Investment Support

Ongoing Business Support

CombineBusiness+Technology

OurServices

Software Development

Websites & Digital

AI & LLM Solutions

Data & Analytics

Automation

Consulting & Strategy

FrequentlyAskedQuestions

Company Formation

Tax & Compliance

Visas & Residency

Practical

IT Services

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