Frequently Asked Business Questions Solutions
ripplellc.ae > Faq
How do I set up a company in the UAE?
To establish a company with RIPPLE:
Choose your jurisdiction—mainland, free zone, or offshore.
Select your business activity and trade name.
Submit required documents (e.g., passport, Emirates ID).
Obtain a trade license from the relevant authority.
Open a bank account and process visas.
RIPPLE assists you at every step—ensuring compliance, speed, and simplicity throughout the setup journey
Can I own 100% of a company in the UAE?
Yes — as a foreign investor, you can now hold 100% ownership in most business activities across the UAE. Free zones have always offered full ownership, and mainland reforms since 2021 now allow expatriates the same level of ownership. RIPPLE guides you through selecting the right jurisdiction and company structure to secure full ownership.
Which business sectors are most profitable in the UAE?
High-potential sectors include real estate, e-commerce, and consulting:
Real estate offers annual returns of 6–8%.
E-commerce is growing at ~30% per year.
Consulting has minimal startup costs and strong ROI.
RIPPLE can help pinpoint profitable sectors aligned with your skills and market trends.
What are the advantages of setting up a business in the UAE?
Key benefits include:
100% foreign ownership
Zero personal income tax
Full profit repatriation
Tax-free zones
Strategic global location
What types of licenses are available?
Depending on your activity, you can apply for:
Professional license – consultancy and services
Commercial license – trading goods
Industrial license – manufacturing
What’s the difference between mainland and free zone setups?
Mainland: broad access to UAE markets, now allows full foreign ownership, requires physical office space.
Free zone: full ownership, 0% tax, virtual office options, but limited to free zone jurisdictions.
RIPPLE helps determine the best route based on your market reach, physical presence, and budget.
How do I set up a company in the UAE?
To establish a company with RIPPLE:
Choose your jurisdiction—mainland, free zone, or offshore.
Select your business activity and trade name.
Submit required documents (e.g., passport, Emirates ID).
Obtain a trade license from the relevant authority.
Open a bank account and process visas.
RIPPLE assists you at every step—ensuring compliance, speed, and simplicity throughout the setup journey
Can I own 100% of a company in the UAE?
Yes — as a foreign investor, you can now hold 100% ownership in most business activities across the UAE. Free zones have always offered full ownership, and mainland reforms since 2021 now allow expatriates the same level of ownership. RIPPLE guides you through selecting the right jurisdiction and company structure to secure full ownership.
Which business sectors are most profitable in the UAE?
High-potential sectors include real estate, e-commerce, and consulting:
Real estate offers annual returns of 6–8%.
E-commerce is growing at ~30% per year.
Consulting has minimal startup costs and strong ROI.
RIPPLE can help pinpoint profitable sectors aligned with your skills and market trends.
What are the advantages of setting up a business in the UAE?
Key benefits include:
100% foreign ownership
Zero personal income tax
Full profit repatriation
Tax-free zones
Strategic global location
What types of licenses are available?
Depending on your activity, you can apply for:
Professional license – consultancy and services
Commercial license – trading goods
Industrial license – manufacturing
What’s the difference between mainland and free zone setups?
Mainland: broad access to UAE markets, now allows full foreign ownership, requires physical office space.
Free zone: full ownership, 0% tax, virtual office options, but limited to free zone jurisdictions.
RIPPLE helps determine the best route based on your market reach, physical presence, and budget.