Can I set up a company in Dubai without visiting?

Yes. You can apply, sign and pay online. Some visa steps, such as the medical test and Emirates ID biometrics, take place in the UAE.

Do I need a UAE residence visa to own a free zone company?

No. A visa is only needed if you want to live and work in the UAE. You can add one later.

Can I open a UAE bank account remotely?

Some banks allow parts of the process online, but many ask signatories to visit in person. We help you prepare so that your visit is as short as possible.

Can I manage my company from abroad?

Yes. Renewals, amendments and certificates can be requested online. Tax and substance rules may apply to your company, and an adviser can explain them.

Remote license

Set up your Dubai company from anywhere.

Apply for your DHCC Free Zone trade license from abroad. Upload your documents, sign and pay online, and run your company remotely.

Get started See the steps

A smiling woman standing in a busy train station concourse

Remote company setup, step by step.

01
Talk to an adviser.
Tell us about your business on a call or on WhatsApp. We help you choose activities and a package.
02
Apply online.
Fill in your application and upload passport copies and your other documents.
03
Sign and pay.
Sign your company documents and pay your fees online.
04
Receive your license.
We issue your trade license and share your company documents with you.
05
Manage it from anywhere.
Renew, amend and request certificates online, wherever you are.

A woman in a pink jacket on a concrete rooftop at dusk

What still happens in the UAE.

Your company can be set up from abroad. A few later steps need you here in person:

The medical fitness test, if you apply for a residence visa
Emirates ID biometrics, your fingerprints and photo
A bank meeting, as many banks ask account signatories to visit

Your adviser helps you plan one trip that covers them.

Visa steps

Who a remote license suits.

International founders.
Start a Dubai company while you live elsewhere, and visit when you need to.
E-commerce and online businesses.
Sell online to customers in the UAE and around the world.
Consultants and freelancers.
Serve clients across the region from a Dubai company.
Growing companies.
Open a base in Dubai for an existing business.

Guides for your next step.

All guides

White shell-shaped pavilions framing the Dubai skyline at sunrise

Ready to start your business in Dubai?

Talk to an adviser today, or work out your setup cost in a few minutes.

Get started Calculate your cost

Remote business setup: FAQs.

Yes. You can apply, sign and pay online. Some visa steps, such as the medical test and Emirates ID biometrics, take place in the UAE.
No. A visa is only needed if you want to live and work in the UAE. You can add one later.
Some banks allow parts of the process online, but many ask signatories to visit in person. We help you prepare so that your visit is as short as possible.
Yes. Renewals, amendments and certificates can be requested online. Tax and substance rules may apply to your company, and an adviser can explain them.

Start your business in Dubai today.

Tell us about your plans and a DHCC Free Zone business setup adviser will contact you.

Talk to a real adviser
Every fee explained upfront
Help with activities, visas and banking

Set up your Dubai company from anywhere.

Remote company setup, step by step.

Talk to an adviser.

Apply online.

Sign and pay.

Receive your license.

Manage it from anywhere.

What still happens in the UAE.

Who a remote license suits.

International founders.

E-commerce and online businesses.

Consultants and freelancers.

Growing companies.

Guides for your next step.

How to open a corporate bank account in the UAE: documents and steps

How to set up a business in Dubai: a step-by-step guide

How to get a UAE residence visa through your company