Can a foreigner own 100% of a UAE company? Yes, in most cases.
Foreign founders can own 100% of a UAE company in every free zone, and on the mainland for most activities. Here is when the answer is yes, and when it needs a closer look.
The short answer
Yes. A foreigner can own 100% of a company in a UAE free zone, and for most activities on the Dubai mainland. The old rule that required a UAE national to hold 51% has been relaxed for most business activities.
Free zones
Every UAE free zone allows 100% foreign ownership. You hold the licence in your own name or through a holding company, and no local partner is needed. The limit is where you can trade, not who can own the company.
Dubai mainland
Since the 2021 changes to the Commercial Companies Law, most mainland activities can be owned 100% by foreigners. The licence is issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, and the activity must be on the list of activities open to full foreign ownership.
Activities with restrictions
Some activities are classed as strategic and may still have restrictions or need approval, for example banking, insurance, defence and telecommunications. Some professional and regulated activities need approval from another authority as well.
- Check the exact activity code, not the general business type.
- Regulated activities may need approval from a regulator before the licence is issued.
- Some activities still need a local partner or a local service agent.
Local partner or service agent
Where a local partner or service agent is still required, the arrangement is set out in a written agreement and should be done correctly. We can check whether your activity needs one before you pay for a licence.
What about offshore companies?
An offshore company is also owned 100% by foreigners, but it is mainly used for holding assets and investments and cannot trade within the UAE. It suits holding structures, not day-to-day UAE business.
How to check your activity
Send us a short description of what the company will do. We match it to the licence activities, tell you whether 100% ownership is available and whether any approval or partner is needed, and quote the free zone or mainland route that fits.
Your questions, answered.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Dubai?
Yes. In a free zone, 100% foreign ownership is always allowed. On the mainland it is allowed for most activities, subject to the activity list and any approvals.
Do I need a UAE partner to open a company?
Not for free zone companies, and not for most mainland activities. Some activities still need a local partner or service agent, so check your activity first.
Which activities are not open to 100% foreign ownership?
Strategic activities such as banking, insurance, defence and telecommunications may be restricted. The list is set by the authorities and can change, so we check yours.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a mainland company?
In most cases yes, with a licence from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism for an eligible activity.
Do I need to live in the UAE to own a company?
Not necessarily. Some steps can be done remotely, but visas, Emirates ID and bank onboarding usually need you in the UAE.
Is a free zone or mainland company better for foreign owners?
Both allow foreign ownership. The better choice depends on where your customers are. See our free zone vs mainland guide.
Want to check your activity?
A 15-minute intake call. We tell you whether 100% ownership is available for your business.