Company formation cost comparison.
Every jurisdiction ArxSetup files in, side by side — year-one all-in starting costs in USD, the entity type, and whether UAE residence visas are available. Each row links to the full itemised breakdown.
14 jurisdictions, one table.
| Jurisdiction | Entity | From (USD, yr 1) | UAE visas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meydan Free Zone | Free zone FZ-LLC | 3,400 | Yes |
| IFZA Free Zone | Free zone FZ-LLC | 3,510 | Yes |
| ADGM (SPV) | SPV / holding | 1,900 | No (SPV) |
| DIFC (holding) | Prescribed Company | 7,600 | Limited |
| DMCC Free Zone | Free zone FZ-LLC | 17,800 | Yes |
| JAFZA Free Zone | Free zone / offshore | 30,000 | Yes |
| Dubai Mainland | LLC (DET) | 16,000 | Yes |
| Abu Dhabi Mainland | LLC (ADDED) | 16,500 | Yes |
| BVI | Business Company | 8,500 | No |
| Cayman Islands | Exempted Company | 10,500 | No |
| Panama | Corporation (SA) | 5,800 | No |
| Singapore | Private Limited | 3,500 | No |
| Hong Kong | Limited company | 5,800 | No |
Figures are indicative year-one all-in starting points in USD, drawn from our detailed per-jurisdiction cost guides (linked above) and current to May 2026. Government fees are pass-through and set by each regulator; AED/HKD/SGD conversions are indicative. ArxSetup professional fees are fixed and quoted in writing before engagement. Visa availability depends on package and activity.
Cheapest isn't always right.
The lowest figure on the table rarely wins on its own. An ADGM SPV is the cheapest entry point but issues no operating visas; a UAE free zone is inexpensive and visa-bearing but won't satisfy a VC that expects a Cayman topco; BVI is far cheaper than Cayman but isn't always accepted at Series A. Match the structure to where your customers, investors and team actually are — then optimise cost within that shortlist.
Reviewed by qualified counsel within ArxSetup and our affiliated practices, Neo Legal (UAE) and Cornwalls (Australia). Figures verified against our per-jurisdiction cost guides and primary regulator sources. Last reviewed: May 2026. Est. 2021 · DDA Licence 107229 · direct registry filing partner. How we review →
Common questions.
The questions clients ask most before committing. Current to 2026, reviewed by counsel.
What is the cheapest jurisdiction to form a company in 2026?
Among the jurisdictions we cover, an ADGM SPV (from USD 1,900/year) and a Panama corporation or UAE free-zone licence (from ~USD 3,400–3,510 year-one) are the lowest-cost entry points. The cheapest option depends on whether you need UAE residence visas, substance, or investor recognition.
How much does it cost to set up a company in the UAE?
A UAE free-zone company starts from about USD 3,400–3,510 year-one (zero-visa, e.g. Meydan or IFZA). A Dubai mainland LLC is from about USD 16,000 all-in year-one. Costs rise with visas, office type and activity.
Is BVI or Cayman cheaper?
BVI is cheaper — from about USD 8,500 year-one versus Cayman from about USD 10,500 year-one, and the gap widens on annual renewals. Cayman is chosen when investors or a regulated fund specifically require it.
Are these prices all-in?
The figures are indicative year-one all-in starting points combining government fees and ArxSetup professional fees, drawn from our detailed per-jurisdiction cost guides. Government fees are pass-through and set by each regulator; we quote a fixed professional fee in writing before engagement.