How to Start a Business in Dubai 2026: Step-by-Step Guide & Costs
A step-by-step guide to starting a business in Dubai: how to set up a company, which licence and Freezone to pick, what it costs and how long it takes.
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Author
Clemens Kohlbacher
Founder & Dubai Setup specialist
Clemens Kohlbacher is the founder of Dubai Setup and has worked for over ten years as a consultant for company formation and relocation in the UAE. From the DIFC he supports freelancers, entrepreneurs and investors from Germany, Austria, Switzerland and many other countries.
He has made the move to Dubai himself and knows every hurdle first-hand. In his articles he shares the practical knowledge gained from hundreds of company formations – honestly, concretely and without sales talk.
10+
Years in Dubai
100+
Formations supported
24
Articles published
Blog
Articles by Clemens
All the guides and comparisons from over ten years of practice – from company formation to everyday life in the UAE.
Dubai Taxes 2026: An Overview of All Levies for Expats
All Taxes in Dubai at a Glance. From Income Tax to Corporate Tax, Crypto, and More. Including a Tax Calculator.
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Golden Visa Dubai: Requirements, Benefits & Costs
Everything about the Golden Visa in Dubai. Starting from the requirements, through the benefits, to the costs and the application process.
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Open an account in Dubai: Requirements, procedure & costs
Opening an account in Dubai (even without residency) is an attractive option for many people. Everything you need to know about the requirements, procedure and costs.
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Living in Dubai: What's the reality for expats?
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How expensive is living in Dubai in 2026? All costs
You are considering emigrating to Dubai but want to know the cost of living. All costs regarding housing, groceries, transportation, etc.
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Emirates ID - Requirements, application, procedure & costs
Everything you need to know about the Emirates ID key document in Dubai. From the requirements, application and procedure to the costs.
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Living in Dubai - The best residential areas for expats
What are the best areas to live in Dubai and where do German expats live? Here is an overview of the most popular neighborhoods and their experiences.
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Emigrating to Dubai with Children & Family – Guide 2026
Everything you need to know about emigrating to Dubai with your family and children. From requirements and procedures to schools and costs.
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The best international private schools in Dubai
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Dubai health insurance - providers, costs & experiences
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Dubai Influencer License: Requirements, procedure and costs
Everything about the influencer license or advertiser permit for influencers who want to live and work in Dubai.
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Dubai Pets - Permission, Carriage & Transportation
Do you want to take your beloved pets with you to Dubai? Everything you need to know about transportation and life for animals in Dubai.
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Summer in Dubai: heat, temperature & duration
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Moving to Dubai: Requirements, Process & Costs [Guide]
Everything about emigrating to Dubai in 2026: Pros & Cons, Requirements, Process, and Costs.
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Dubai emigration: 6 disadvantages of the metropolis
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Dubai Driving License - Application, Conversion & Costs
You want to drive a car as a resident in Dubai? Then you need your UAE driver's license. Instructions on how to apply for and transfer your license, including costs.
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Would you like to emigrate to Dubai and apply for a residence visa? Here is everything you need to know about the requirements, procedure and costs for obtaining one.
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Buying an apartment in Dubai: Process, tips & experiences
You want to buy an apartment in Dubai? Here is the step-by-step process, practical tips and experiences.
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Crime in Dubai – how safe is the city?
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Alcohol in Dubai: import, consumption and prices
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Moving to Dubai as an Influencer: Process, Visa & License
Want to emigrate to Dubai as an influencer? Find out everything about the exact process, the right visa including licenses and costs.
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IFZA company formation: Procedure, costs & experience [Guide]
Do you want to set up a Freezone company in IFZA? Here's the comprehensive guide including the process, costs, and tips for the year 2026.
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Freezone vs. Mainland Company in Dubai – Differences & Costs
Which legal structure is better suited in Dubai: Freezone or Mainland? All differences, advantages, and costs in a direct comparison.
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