For Pakistani Investors
Company Formation in Dubai for Pakistani Investors
Company formation in Dubai for Pakistani nationals costs roughly AED 12,500-30,000 for a freezone or mainland licence with an investor visa, and DBM handles the full process end to end.
Company formation in Dubai for Pakistani investors is the process of setting up a 100% foreign-owned freezone, mainland or offshore company that lets you trade in the UAE, sponsor your own residence visa and open a corporate bank account. It suits Pakistani entrepreneurs, freelancers, traders and established businesses in Pakistan who want a licensed UAE base, and typical all-in costs run from about AED 12,500 for a lean freezone licence to AED 30,000 or more for a mainland setup with visas.
Pakistani nationals do not need a UAE partner for most activities, so you can own your company outright in a freezone or on the mainland under current 100% foreign-ownership rules. You can complete the licence remotely from Pakistan and only travel to Dubai for the medical test, Emirates ID biometrics and bank appointment once your visa is issued.
As Dubai business setup consultants with 10+ years of experience and 1,000+ companies formed, DBM gives Pakistani clients a fixed written quote before any payment, handles the Arabic paperwork and PRO work, and tells you honestly which jurisdiction fits your activity and budget. We hold a 4.9-star rating from 126 Google reviews.
Why Set Up With DBM
100% Pakistani Ownership
Own your Dubai company fully with no local sponsor required for most freezone and mainland activities.
Remote Setup From Pakistan
Sign and pay from Karachi, Lahore or Islamabad and only fly in for your visa medical and biometrics.
Transparent 2026 Costs
You get a fixed written quote with government fees itemised before you pay anything.
Investor Visa Included
Your package can bundle a 2-year investor residence visa and Emirates ID for you and your family.
Bank Account Support
We prepare your file and introduce you to UAE banks to improve your account-opening odds.
Urdu-Speaking Advisors
Talk through your options in Urdu or English with consultants who understand the Pakistani market.
Who Is Eligible
- Pakistani national aged 21 or over with a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- A clear business activity or activities you intend to license in Dubai
- No UAE partner required for most freezone activities and many mainland activities under 100% foreign ownership
- Ability to travel to the UAE once for medical, Emirates ID biometrics and bank onboarding if taking a visa
- Sufficient funds for the licence, visa and, where required, an office or flexi-desk
- Clean immigration record with no active UAE entry ban
Required Documents
- Passport copy (valid at least 6 months)
- Recent passport-size photograph with white background
- Proposed company name options and chosen business activities
- UAE entry visa stamp or visit visa page (if already in the country)
- Proof of address in Pakistan (utility bill or tenancy)
- Educational or professional certificates (only for certain regulated activities)
- Existing company trade licence and board resolution (for a branch or subsidiary of a Pakistani company)
- Bank reference or 6-month statement (usually requested at the bank stage)
Step-by-Step Process
Typical timeline: freezone licence in 3-7 working days, with visa and Emirates ID adding 1-3 weeks from complete documents.
- 1
Free Consultation
We assess your activity, budget and visa needs and recommend the right jurisdiction for you as a Pakistani investor.
- 2
Fixed Written Quote
You receive an itemised quote covering licence, government fees, visa and any office cost before paying.
- 3
Name & Activity Approval
We reserve your trade name and secure initial approval for your chosen activities.
- 4
Licence Issuance
We submit your documents and pay government fees so your trade licence is issued, usually within days.
- 5
Visa & Emirates ID
We process your establishment card and investor visa, then arrange your medical and biometrics in Dubai.
- 6
Bank Account Opening
We prepare your file and introduce you to suitable UAE banks for a corporate account.
Freezone vs Mainland for Pakistani Investors
| Factor | Freezone | Mainland |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | 100% Pakistani-owned | 100% owned for most activities |
| Indicative cost | From AED 12,500 | From AED 18,000-30,000 |
| Trade within UAE | Via distributor or added approval | Direct across the UAE |
| Office needed | Flexi-desk often enough | Physical office usually required |
| Best for | Consulting, e-commerce, trading, freelancers | Retail, contracting, local B2B and government work |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to set up a business in Dubai for Pakistani investors?
Business setup in Dubai for Pakistani investors typically costs from about AED 12,500 for a basic freezone licence, rising to AED 18,000-30,000 for a mainland licence with an investor visa. The final figure depends on your activity, number of visas and whether you need a physical office.
Can a Pakistani own 100% of a company in Dubai?
Yes, Pakistani nationals can own 100% of a company in most Dubai freezones and in many mainland activities under current UAE foreign-ownership rules. A local partner is only required for a small list of strategic activities, which we confirm before you commit.
Can I set up my Dubai company from Pakistan without travelling?
Yes, you can complete the licence remotely from Pakistan by signing documents digitally and paying online. You only need to travel to Dubai once for your visa medical, Emirates ID biometrics and, in most cases, the bank account appointment.
Do I need a UAE visa to start the company, and can I get one?
You do not need an existing UAE visa to register the company, and most packages include a 2-year investor residence visa once the licence is issued. That visa also lets you sponsor your spouse and children.
Why use a business setup consultant instead of doing it myself?
A consultant saves you costly mistakes by matching your activity to the cheapest correct jurisdiction and handling the Arabic paperwork, PRO work and bank introductions. DBM gives Pakistani clients a fixed written quote and Urdu-speaking support so there are no surprise fees.
Start Your For Pakistani Investors Journey Today
Get a free consultation and an itemised, no-surprises quote — usually within the hour.