UAE free zone company formation typically takes 1–4 weeks from application to receiving the trade licence and residence visa. Here is what to expect at each stage.
Stage 1: Name Reservation (Day 1–2)
Check name availability and reserve your company name through the free zone portal. Approval typically takes 1–2 business days. Cost: AED 0–500 depending on the free zone.
Stage 2: Document Submission (Day 2–5)
Submit your application with all required documents (shareholder passports, business plan, activity selection, office space choice). Most free zones review documents within 3–5 business days. If documents are complete and correct, the licence is issued immediately upon approval. If documents have issues, expect revision rounds adding 3–7 days.
Stage 3: Licence Issuance (Day 5–10)
Once approved, your trade licence is issued electronically. Physical licence cards (credit-card format) are mailed within 7–10 business days. Licence issuance triggers the company’s legal existence.
Stage 4: Bank Account Opening (Week 2–8)
Bank account opening is the longest variable in the timeline. Digital banks (WIO, Mashreq Neo): 3–10 business days. Traditional banks (ENBD, FAB, ADCB): 4–8 weeks. Prepare complete KYC documents (trade licence, shareholder ID, proof of address, business plan) to minimise delays.
Stage 5: Residence Visa (Week 2–4)
If you need a UAE residence visa, submit the visa application after licence issuance. The medical fitness test takes 1–3 days; biometrics are submitted the same day. Visa stamping takes 3–7 business days. Emirates ID is mailed within 5–7 business days of visa stamping.
Fastest Formation Options
- IFZA: 5–7 working days end-to-end for licence issuance
- Meydan Free Zone: 3–5 working days
- RAKEZ: 5–7 working days
- DMCC: 10–15 working days (more documentation-intensive)