Low Cost Business Setup in Dubai

If you’ve ever thought of launching a digital marketing agency in Dubai, 2025 might be your best shot yet. The demand for online marketing services in the UAE is booming, driven by digital transsetup, e-commerce expansion, and a business ecosystem that thrives on social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising. Dubai has become a magnet for startups, influencers, brands, and global companies, all seeking to dominate their digital presence. That’s where your agency comes in. In this blog, AB Capital Services walks you through everything you need to know about opening a digital marketing agency in Dubai, from legal steps and licensing to bank accounts, office options, and costs. Why Start a Digital Marketing Agency in Dubai? Before jumping into the how, let’s look at the why. Dubai is one of the fastest-growing hubs for digital business. With over 99% internet penetration, a high mobile-first audience, and thousands of businesses looking to scale online, the UAE is a playground for digital marketing professionals. Key reasons to start your agency in Dubai: Explosive demand for SEO, social media, and content marketing High-paying clientele, including real estate, hospitality, fintech, and retail Zero personal income tax Access to international markets and clients Government support for tech and media companies Easy licensing options in both free zones and mainland Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity and License Type The first step is to decide on your business activity. For a digital marketing agency, the most relevant options include: Marketing Services Social Media Management Advertising Services Web Design and Development Content Production or Copywriting You can register your agency either in a UAE mainland zone or in a free zone. Free zones are often more cost-effective and offer 100% foreign ownership, while mainland allows direct dealings with UAE-based clients. Popular free zones for digital agencies: Dubai Media City Dubai Internet City Dubai Mainland (DED license) IFZA RAKEZ SHAMS AB Capital Services helps you choose the right structure based on your business model, budget, and target clients. Step 2: Decide on Free Zone or Mainland Free Zone Setup: 100% ownership No need for local sponsor Tax benefits Office options: flexi desk or virtual office Limited to working with clients outside UAE (unless through agents) Mainland Setup (DED License): Work directly with clients in the UAE More flexibility in marketing services Requires a UAE national as service agent (no equity share) Slightly higher setup costs Step 3: Register Your Company and Get Your License The company setup process includes: Choosing a unique company name Selecting the legal structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC) Submitting license application Paying relevant government and zone authority fees Receiving your business license This process can take 3 to 7 business days depending on your chosen zone. AB Capital Services handles all documentation and licensing on your behalf, so you can stay focused on your launch. Step 4: Apply for UAE Residence Visa As a business owner, you are eligible for a UAE residence visa, which allows you to live, work, and sponsor family members. Your visa process includes: Entry permit Medical fitness test Emirates ID Visa stamping You can also sponsor employees under your agency license as you grow. Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account A corporate bank account is essential to receive client payments, pay salaries, and run your business. However, opening a business bank account in the UAE can be tricky without proper support. AB Capital Services simplifies this process with our fast-track corporate bank account setup — most accounts are approved within 3 business days with leading banks in the UAE. Step 6: Set Up Your Office Depending on your license type, you will need a physical address or flexi desk. If you’re registering in a free zone, a co-working space or shared office may be included in your package. Need to scale fast? We help you upgrade office space, apply for more visas, or expand into the mainland when ready. What Is the Cost of Starting a Digital Marketing Agency in Dubai? The total cost varies based on your setup and location. Here’s an estimated breakdown: Setup Option Cost Range (AED) Free Zone License 10,000 – 15,000 Mainland License (DED) 15,000 – 20,000 Visa and Medical 3,000 – 5,000 Flexi Desk Office Included in most zones Bank Account Setup Included with AB Capital Services For a full setup with licensing, visa, and office, you can expect to pay between AED 12,000 to AED 20,000, depending on the zone and features. Why Work With AB Capital Services? We are a leading business setup consultancy in the UAE, trusted by entrepreneurs, startups, and global brands. Here’s how we make your agency launch seamless: Company setup in free zone or mainland Fast trade license issuance UAE visa processing for you and your team Fastest Corporate bank account opening in 3 business days Co-working space options and legal address Lifetime business support and renewals Whether you are starting solo or planning a full-scale digital agency with a team, we tailor your setup based on your goals and budget. Final Thoughts The demand for digital marketing in Dubai and across the UAE is at an all-time high. If you have the skills, vision, and drive to build an agency, now is the perfect time to take action. With AB Capital Services, your digital marketing agency setup is fast, affordable, and 100% compliant. From licensing to banking, we cover it all — so you can focus on growing your brand. Contact us today to launch your Digital Marketing Agency in Dubai the right way.

Dubai’s business landscape is one of the most dynamic in the world. Companies thrive here due to business-friendly regulations, tax benefits, and global connectivity. However, not all businesses last forever. If you find yourself needing to close your company, liquidation is the proper way to do it. When you want to Liquidate a Dubai Mainland company, it is a structured process involving government authorities, financial settlements, and legal documentation. If not done correctly, it can result in fines, legal complications, and unnecessary delays. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to liquidate a Dubai Mainland company in 2025, covering the necessary steps, costs, and legal obligations to ensure a smooth exit. What is a Dubai Mainland Company? A Dubai Mainland company is a business registered under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) (formerly known as the Department of Economic Development or DED). Unlike free zone companies, mainland companies can operate anywhere in the UAE and are not restricted to specific geographic zones. These companies are often chosen for their flexibility, ability to trade across the UAE, and access to government contracts. However, when a business no longer remains viable, liquidation becomes necessary. Why Would You Want to Liquidate a Dubai Mainland Company? Company liquidation isn’t always due to failure. Several factors can lead business owners to officially close their operations. 1. Business Closure Sometimes, entrepreneurs decide to move on from their business ventures. Whether it’s due to retirement, relocation, or a change in interests, proper liquidation ensures a clean exit with no legal liabilities. 2. Change in Business Strategy Many companies pivot to new industries or restructure their operations. If a business model no longer aligns with its long-term goals, liquidation might be the best solution before moving forward. 3. Financial Difficulties Businesses facing financial struggles, declining profits, or excessive debt may find it more practical to liquidate than to continue operations at a loss. Properly liquidating a Dubai Mainland company can protect business owners from unnecessary penalties and lawsuits. What are the Steps to Liquidate a Dubai Mainland Company? Liquidation follows a legal and financial process that ensures all obligations are met before a company officially closes. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to liquidate a Dubai Mainland company in 2025:   1. Notify the Relevant Authorities The first step is to inform the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) about your intention to liquidate the company. You’ll need to submit a board resolution (for LLCs) or a shareholder’s resolution (for sole proprietorships) confirming the decision. 2. Settle Any Outstanding Liabilities Before liquidation can proceed, all financial obligations must be settled: Clear outstanding debts with banks or creditors. Pay off any supplier invoices. Settle employee dues, including end-of-service benefits. Close corporate bank accounts to prevent future transactions. 3. Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) You’ll need to request a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from relevant authorities, such as: Dubai Customs (if applicable) Utilities providers (DEWA, Etisalat, du) The leasing company (if you rented an office space) Without this clearance, your liquidation process can be delayed or rejected. 4. Cancel All Licenses and Permits A company operating in Dubai Mainland holds various business licenses and permits that need to be officially canceled. These include: Trade license from DET VAT setup (if applicable) Work permits and visas for employees You must also notify the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to cancel any residence visas linked to the company. 5. Submit a Liquidation Application Once all outstanding matters are settled, you need to file a liquidation request with DET. You will also need to appoint a licensed liquidator to oversee the company’s closure. The liquidator will: Audit the company’s finances Ensure debts are settled Oversee the asset distribution process 6. Publish a Notice of Liquidation As part of the legal process, your liquidation notice must be published in two local newspapers for 45 days. This allows creditors to raise any claims before the final dissolution of the company. If no claims are raised within the 45-day period, the company can proceed with final liquidation steps. What are the Costs and Timeframe for Liquidating a Dubai Mainland Company?   1. Liquidation Costs The cost of liquidating a Dubai Mainland company depends on various factors, including: Business license cancellation fees Outstanding tax liabilities and fines Legal and liquidator fees On average, liquidation costs can range between AED 8,000 – AED 15,000, depending on the business size and liabilities. 2. Timeframe for Liquidation The entire liquidation process typically takes 2 to 6 months, depending on: The company’s financial and legal obligations. The efficiency of document submission. The response from DET and other government entities. Businesses with outstanding debts or pending legal issues may experience longer liquidation timelines. What Happens to the Assets of a Liquidated Dubai Mainland Company?   1. Distribution to Creditors If a company has outstanding liabilities, its assets will first be used to repay creditors. This may include: Selling company assets (furniture, equipment, intellectual property) Settling final supplier invoices 2. Distribution to Shareholders After settling all outstanding debts, any remaining assets or funds are distributed among the shareholders based on their ownership percentage. For sole proprietorships, the owner receives the remaining assets after all obligations are met. The Importance of Properly Liquidating a Dubai Mainland Company   Liquidation isn’t just about closing shops—it’s about ensuring that you exit the market legally and responsibly. If you fail to liquidate properly, you may face: Legal consequences from unsettled debts or unresolved government requirements. Future penalties when trying to set up a new business in the UAE. Unwanted liabilities tied to the company name. By following the correct liquidation steps, you can close your company smoothly, efficiently, and without financial or legal trouble. How AB Capital Services Can Make Things Easy?   Liquidating a Dubai Mainland company involves multiple steps, legal procedures, and financial clearances—all of which can be time-consuming and complex. That’s where AB Capital Services comes in. Why Choose AB Capital Services? FTA Approved –