What are the costs of setting up a business in Dubai mainland vs freezone?

Setting up a business in Dubai can vary significantly between mainland and free zone. Generally, costs for a mainland license can start around AED 15,000, while free zone setups can begin from AED 10,000, depending on the type of business. In my years of experience in expat circles, I often advise newcomers to consider their market access needs when deciding. For instance, if you plan to trade directly with the UAE market, a mainland license is essential.