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Business Setup
In the UAE
Apply for your UAE Business Setup with experts at Abroad Routes
Business Setup Consultants in Dubai and the UAE
Setting up a business in the UAE is an excellent way to obtain a residency visa for yourself and your family. This option is particularly appealing for entrepreneurs and freelancers who wish to capitalize on the UAE’s thriving economy.
Steps to Obtain a Residency Visa Through Company Formation
Choose a Business Type
Decide on the type of business activity you wish to undertake (e.g., trading, consulting, freelancing). Choose a legal structure: Free Zone or Mainland Company. Apply for an Emirates ID to complete the process.
Select a Jurisdiction
Free Zone: Offers 100% foreign ownership and tax benefits, ideal for specific industries. Mainland: Allows broader business activities and direct dealings within the UAE market.
Business Licensing
Obtain the required trade license from the appropriate authority. Types of licenses include commercial, professional, and industrial.
Visa Application
As the owner of a registered company, you can apply for a 2-year residency visa. Sponsorship for employees and family members is also permitted.
Medical and Emirates ID
Undergo the mandatory medical fitness test. Apply for an Emirates ID to complete the process.
Documents Required
- Passport copy.
- Trade license.
- Establishment card.
- Immigration card.
- Proof of office address and lease agreement.
Costs and Renewal
Expense Type | Approximate Cost (AED). |
---|---|
Trade License | AED 10,000 - AED 25,000 |
Visa Fees | AED 3,000 - AED 7,000 |
Office Space Rental | AED 5,000 - AED 20,000 (depends on location and size) |
Renewal Costs (Annual) | Similar to initial setup costs |
Benefits of Residency Through Company Formation
- 100% ownership in Free Zones.
- Ability to sponsor employees and family members.
- Legal access to UAE’s market and international business opportunities.
- Residency for 2 years with renewal options.
Benefits of UAE Residency
- Sponsorship of Family Members: Residents can sponsor their spouse and children for residency.
- Pathway to Citizenship: While the UAE does not widely grant citizenship, long-term residency offers stability for generations.
- Access to World-Class Services: Residents can benefit from premium healthcare, education, and modern amenities.
In-Demand Industries in the UAE
Industry | Key Job Roles | Average Salaries (AED) |
---|---|---|
Technology | Software Developers, IT Managers | AED 15,000 - AED 35,000 per month |
Finance | Financial Analysts, Accountants | AED 12,000 - AED 30,000 per month |
Healthcare | Doctors, Nurses | AED 8,000 - AED 45,000 per month |
Real Estate & Construction | Project Managers, Civil Engineers | AED 10,000 - AED 40,000 per month |
Education | Teachers, Academic Coordinators | AED 6,000 - AED 20,000 per month |
Our Process
At Abroad Routes, we make the residency application process straightforward:

1
Free Consultation
Assess your eligibility and discuss your residency options.
Document Preparation
Assist with collecting and verifying the necessary paperwork.
2
3
Application Submission
Submit applications to the relevant UAE authorities.
Post-Approval Support:
Guide you through Emirates ID registration, medical tests, and visa stamping.
4
Contact Abroad Routes for Assistance
Our team can guide you through the entire process of obtaining a UAE residency visa through company formation or applying for the Golden Visa. Book a free evaluation session or visit our office to discuss your options.
Launch Your UAE Business With Confidence
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are required to apply for UAE residency?
Typically, you need a valid passport, passport-sized photos, proof of income or employment, medical fitness test results, and sponsorship documents.
How long does it take to process a residency visa?
Processing times vary but generally range from 2-4 weeks, depending on the visa type and application completeness.
Can I sponsor my family members?
Yes, residents with sufficient income and suitable accommodation can sponsor their spouse and children.
What is the validity period of UAE residency visas?
Residency visas are typically valid for 1-3 years, depending on the visa type, and can be renewed.
What documents are required to apply for UAE residency?
Typically, you need a valid passport, passport-sized photos, proof of income or employment, medical fitness test results, and sponsorship documents.
How long does it take to process a residency visa?
Processing times vary but generally range from 2-4 weeks, depending on the visa type and application completeness.
Can I sponsor my family members?
Yes, residents with sufficient income and suitable accommodation can sponsor their spouse and children.
What is the validity period of UAE residency visas?
Residency visas are typically valid for 1-3 years, depending on the visa type, and can be renewed.