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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about setting up and managing your business in the UAE with 1TapBiz.

General Questions

What is 1TapBiz and what do you do?

1TapBiz is a digital-first platform designed to simplify the entire lifecycle of business management in the UAE. We specialize in company formation, 100% ownership setup, and ongoing compliance services, including VAT and Corporate Tax registration, accounting, bookkeeping, and payroll. Our goal is to handle the complexities of business administration so you can focus on growth.

Why should I choose 1TapBiz to set up my company in the UAE?

Choosing 1TapBiz means opting for a streamlined, transparent, and fully digital process. We offer algorithm-based jurisdiction recommendations to find the most cost-effective and strategic location for your business. Our all-in-one packages, automated reminders, and expert support ensure a hassle-free experience from incorporation to annual renewals, saving you time and money.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in the UAE?

Yes, thanks to recent legal reforms in the UAE, foreign nationals can now have 100% ownership of their mainland (onshore) companies for most commercial activities. This has removed the previous requirement for a local Emirati sponsor. All our packages are designed to facilitate this 100% ownership structure.

What's the difference between a Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore company?

A Mainland company is licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and can trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions. A Free Zone company is based in a designated jurisdiction and is ideal for international trade, often offering 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions. An Offshore company is a legal entity established to operate outside its registered jurisdiction and is primarily used for international asset management and investment. Our algorithm-based search helps you choose the best option for your business needs.

Incorporation & Packages

How do I choose the right package for my business?

Our packages are designed to scale with your needs:

  • Incorporation Basic: Perfect for solo entrepreneurs who need a fast, simple company setup.
  • Founder's Starter: Ideal for new businesses that also require initial tax registration and annual accounting.
  • Business Compliance: Suited for growing businesses needing ongoing compliance, annual accounting, and payroll for a small team.
  • Business Elite: Our premium offering for established businesses that require comprehensive monthly accounting, payroll for a larger team, and regular expert consultancy.
Are government fees included in your package prices?

Our package prices cover all of 1Tap's service and advisory fees. All mandatory government fees for trade licenses, registration, visas, and other third-party costs are separate. We are committed to full transparency and will provide you with a detailed, itemized breakdown of all government costs before you make any payment.

How long does it take to set up my company?

Our fully digital process is designed for speed and efficiency. Once all required documents have been submitted and verified, the company registration process typically takes only a few business days. The exact timeline can vary slightly depending on the specific jurisdiction and the speed of government approvals.

Compliance & Financial Services

What is VAT and do I need to register for it?

Value Added Tax (VAT) is an indirect tax on the consumption of most goods and services in the UAE. It is mandatory for businesses to register for VAT if their taxable supplies and imports exceed the threshold of AED 375,000 per year. Several of our packages, like the Founder's Starter and Business Essentials, include VAT registration and return filing to ensure you are compliant.

What is Corporate Tax in the UAE?

The UAE has introduced a federal Corporate Tax on the net profits of businesses. The standard rate is 9% on taxable income exceeding AED 375,000. Our packages that include tax services, such as the Business Essentials and Compliance packages, cover your Corporate Tax registration to ensure you meet all legal requirements from day one.

What are Economic Substance Regulations (ESR)?

Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) are rules in the UAE that require companies engaged in certain 'Relevant Activities' to demonstrate that they have a substantial economic presence in the country. This involves filing an annual ESR notification and report. Our compliance-focused packages handle your ESR obligations to keep you in good standing.

What is the Wages Protection System (WPS) for payroll?

The Wages Protection System (WPS) is a mandatory electronic salary transfer system in the UAE that ensures employees are paid correctly and on time. It is a legal requirement for most mainland companies. Our Business Compliance and Business Elite packages include full payroll and WPS management to handle this for you.

Visas & Renewals

Can I apply for a UAE residency visa with your packages?

Yes, absolutely. All of our packages offer the flexibility to add UAE residency visas for yourself as the owner, as well as for your partners and employees. This allows you to live and work legally in the UAE and scale your team as your business grows.

How do you handle company renewals?

We make renewals completely hassle-free. Our system sends you automated reminders well in advance of your trade license expiry date. We then manage the entire renewal process digitally, ensuring all paperwork is submitted correctly and on time so your business remains compliant and operational without interruption.

Payments & Support

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept payments via Visa and MasterCard debit and credit cards in AED. The checkout process is secure, and a confirmation notice will be sent to your email within 24 hours of a successful payment. All transactions are processed in accordance with our secure payment policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your comprehensive guide to setting up and growing your business in the UAE.