Once you've chosen where to set up (Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore), it’s time to handle the legal and administrative work. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
Your chosen activity will determine the license you need and where you can operate. Activities include:

• Commercial (trading)
• Industrial
• Professional (consulting, services)

Step 2: Select the Legal Structure
Options include:

• Sole proprietorship
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Branch of a foreign company
• Free Zone Establishment (FZE) or Free Zone Company (FZC)

Step 3: Choose a Trade Name
Make sure the name:

• Reflects your business activity
• Isn’t offensive or religious
• Is available for registration

Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval
You’ll need approval from the relevant authority (DED for Mainland, Free Zone authority, or Offshore registrar). This is like a "green light" to move forward.

Step 5: Draft the MOA and Lease a Space
For Mainland companies, you’ll need a Memorandum of Association (MOA) and a tenancy contract. Free Zones often provide flexi-desks or virtual offices.

Step 6: Final License Issuance
Once documents are approved and fees paid, your trade license is issued — you’re officially in business!

Step 7: Apply for Visas and Open a Bank Account
With your trade license in hand, you can:

• Apply for investor/residency visas
• Hire employees
• Open a UAE corporate bank account