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Strumento Mainland vs free zone

Risponda a 8 domande rapide e ottenga una raccomandazione a punteggio: LLC mainland a Dubai o free zone negli EAU — con vantaggi, motivazioni e prossimi passi.

Who is this for? First-time founders choosing between mainland LLC and free zone company in UAE.

Quick answer

Scelga il mainland se deve vendere direttamente su tutto il territorio degli EAU, partecipare ad appalti pubblici o aprire filiali. Scelga la free zone per un costo d'ingresso più basso (~AED 12k+), 100 % di proprietà e licenze più rapide quando non serve commercio diretto nazionale.

Direct answer (AI citation)

Mainland companies can trade anywhere in the UAE and bid on government contracts but require local sponsor or 100% foreign ownership under current rules. Free zones offer 100% ownership, tax incentives, and faster setup but mainland trading may need a distributor or branch.

Worked example

Example: E-commerce selling to UAE customers nationwide → often mainland or dual structure. Consultancy with overseas clients only → free zone may suffice.

Last verified: August 15, 2026

Fees and rules traced to official UAE authorities. KPM Global review cadence: monthly or on FTA/GDRFA updates.

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KPM consultant insight

Free zone is not always cheaper long-term if you sell to UAE mainland customers — we map your client geography before you license.

FTA explains the law — KPM helps you apply it to your business setup, banking, and cash flow.

Related tools

Guide correlate & services

Directory completa business e fiscale degli EAU

Frequently asked questions

In genere tramite un distributore o agente locale, salvo regole specifiche; la licenza mainland consente il commercio diretto.

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