Other routes
A branch extends your existing company into the UAE under the same name and legal identity — it isn't a new company. It can trade, hire and sponsor visas for the parent's activities. Here's what it costs, who it suits, and how it compares.
Best for an established company that wants a UAE presence under its own name and identity — not a separate new entity. Here's where it fits, and where it doesn't.
An illustrative starting point. Attestation of the parent's documents is the main variable — your final figure depends on:
We build a written quote around your parent company and activity, so you see the full breakdown — including attestation — before you commit.
Split payments Setup fees can be paid in instalments with Tamara. Your advisor confirms eligibility and terms with your quote.
| Branch | New Mainland Co. | Free Zone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal identity | Same as parent | New entity | New entity |
| Liability shield | No (parent) | Yes (LLC) | Yes |
| Activities | Parent's only | Any licensed | Zone's list |
| Trade in the UAE | Yes | Yes | Distributor, or a Dubai mainland permit |
| Setup from | AED 15,000 | AED 15,000 | AED 6,000 |
| Best for | Extending a company | New UAE business | Cost & 100% own |
In short: choose a branch to extend an existing company under one identity. If you want a separate entity with its own liability shield, form a new mainland LLC; if you're international/online and cost-sensitive, a free zone is cheaper.
A branch typically starts from around AED 15,000, but attestation of the parent-company documents is the main variable and adds cost and time. Your activity, office and visa needs also factor in — we send a full written breakdown first.
No. A branch is an extension of your existing company — the same legal identity, 100% parent-owned. Its obligations sit with the parent, which is the key difference from forming a separate subsidiary/LLC.
No. The parent owns it 100%, and the local service agent requirement was abolished — Article 329 of the Commercial Companies Law was repealed by Federal Decree-Law 26 of 2020, and Ministerial Resolution 138 of 2024 removed it procedurally too, along with the AED 50,000 bank guarantee that went with it. Anyone still quoting you an annual agent fee is charging for something the law no longer requires.
Only the activities the parent company is already licensed for. If you need to do something outside the parent's scope, a new company is the better structure.
Typically the certificate of incorporation, memorandum/articles, a board resolution to open the branch, and a power of attorney — all attested by MOFA / the UAE embassy. We guide you through the exact list for your country.
Usually two to four weeks, largely depending on how quickly the parent's documents are attested. Visas and banking follow once the licence is issued.
Ask AgentBiz — with your parent company in mind — or talk to a human advisor. Honest guidance, an itemised quote, no obligation.
