Launch Your Consultancy in Dubai: Why SetupMate is Your Trusted Partner
Dubai is where East meets West—a global business hub with zero personal income tax, unparalleled infrastructure, and a magnet for international consulting talent. Whether you're setting up in Mainland or a Free Zone, SetupMate helps transform your vision into a thriving reality.
1. Why Dubai Is Perfect for Consultancies
Strategic Reach: Dubai bridges Europe, Asia, and Africa—ideal for consulting across geographies.
Tax Advantages: Enjoy 0% corporate tax in Free Zones (on profits under AED 375,000) and no personal income tax—keeping more revenue in your pocket .
100% Foreign Ownership: Choose from Mainland (some sectors exempt local sponsorship) or Free Zones for full ownership and simplified compliance .
High Demand for Expertise: The consultancy market in the GCC grew 13.2% in 2023—outpacing mature markets—thanks to mega-projects and economic diversification .
2. Choosing the Right Structure & Jurisdiction
| Jurisdiction | Ownership | Market Access | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mainland (DED) | 100%/Local* | UAE domestic + government bids | Local client focus, broad activities |
| Free Zone | 100% foreign | Intl + within-zone Only | Export-focused, niche services |
| Offshore | 100% foreign | Intl only (no UAE operations) | Holding, tax efficiency focus |
Mainland may require Emirati sponsor, though new reforms allow full ownership in many sectors
Popular Free Zones include:
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DMCC: Ideal for general consultancies.
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DIC & DSO: Focused on IT and tech advisory.
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Meydan Free Zone: Supports flexible setups with full ownership.
3. Step-by-Step Setup Process with SetupMate
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Validate Your Consulting Offer
Before formalities, talk to 5–10 potential clients: understand their challenges, current solutions, and budget. Craft service packages that solve real problems for a fixed fee. -
Decide on Jurisdiction & Structure
With SetupMate’s expertise, choose the optimal combination of Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore to fit your market strategy. -
Name and Apply for Your License
Provide 3 name options aligned with UAE for official registration. Apply for a professional services license—DED for Mainland, Free Zone authority for Free Zones. -
Office Setup
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Mainland: Require physical space—choose co-working, flexi-office, or a private office .
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Free Zone: Many offer virtual desks or hot desks for lean operations .
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Banking & Finance
Open a corporate account, prepared with your license and lease documentation. SetupMate’s banking advisory ensures smoother processing. -
Visas & PRO Services
Sponsor visas for yourself and staff. SetupMate handles all immigration processes, including Emirates ID and medical clearance. -
Compliance & Tax Registrations
Register for VAT (mandatory if turnover > AED 375,000) and maintain accounting to stay compliant. -
Launch & Marketing
Build your brand with a clean website, optimized LinkedIn presence, and content like case studies or lead magnets. Network through events and forums like the Dubai Business Women Council or leveraging Dubai Chambers
4. Avoiding Common Pitfalls
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Naming rules: Company names must avoid offensive content and reflect activities in English and Arabic.
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Office compliance: Mainland setups require rental agreements tied to visa quotas; free zones offer flexible options.
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Underpricing services: Sell by value, not by hours. Offer tiered packages—Basic, Standard, Premium—to scale and preserve margins .
5. Why SetupMate Is Your Ideal Partner
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Fast and Transparent: Launch in as little as 3–7 days, with clear pricing starting from USD 3,515 (Free Zone) and USD 2,725 (Mainland).
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One‑Stop Solution: From license and visas to banking, accounting, auditing, legal support, and Golden Visa assistance.
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Local Expertise: Deep knowledge of top jurisdictions—DMCC, DIFC, DIC, DSO, Meydan, JAFZA and Mainland DED.
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Lifetime Support: Renewals, VAT/Tax filing, regulatory updates, and corporate expansion—SetupMate stays with you every step.
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Trusted by Clients: Clients appreciate fast, compliant service and ongoing guidance.
6. Ready to Launch?
Here’s your quick roadmap with SetupMate:
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Initial Consultation: Free 30‑minute session to help choose jurisdiction and structure.
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Transparent Pricing:
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Free Zone setup: from USD 3,515 (includes visa, license, virtual office)
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Mainland setup: from USD 2,725 (including license, visa setup, bank liaison)
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Offshore: from USD 2,450
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Fast Execution: Business setup in under two weeks—including licensing, visa, and banking.
Bonus: Free visa for life offer—ideal for founders and their families.
📞 Let’s Build Your Success in Dubai
Dubai offers a pro-business environment, global connectivity, and tax advantages—perfect for consultancies. With rapid market growth and projects galore, returning value through consultancy has never been more lucrative.
SetupMate brings you expert guidance, efficient setup, and full-spectrum support. Reach out via email at hello@setupmate.ae or WhatsApp at +971 54 233 6600 to begin your UAE journey today.
