The case for the UAE
Why Dubai?
Low tax, fast setup and a genuinely global base. Here's the honest version — including what's changed.
Tax that actually works for you
The headline reason people look at the UAE is tax — and it's real. There's 0% personal income tax, and most personal investment income isn't taxed either. Businesses now pay 9% corporate tax on profits above AED 375,000 (0% below that), and some qualifying freezone income can still be 0% where strict conditions are met.
It's no longer "tax-free" for companies — but for most founders it remains one of the most competitive regimes anywhere, especially paired with a clean exit from a higher-tax home country.
Set up fast, own it all
100% foreign ownership is standard in freezones and now widely available on the mainland too. A straightforward freezone licence can be issued in around a week, with your residence visa following shortly after.
Residency for the whole family
Your company can sponsor your residence visa, and you can sponsor your spouse and children. For longer-term security, the Golden Visa gives 5–10 years with no employer sponsor and no risk of lapsing through long absences.
A true global hub
Two major international airports, a time zone that overlaps Europe and Asia in the same working day, English as the language of business, and world-class logistics. It's built for companies that operate across borders.
A life worth moving for
Safety, international schools, modern healthcare and year-round sun. For families, the lifestyle is often what turns "should we?" into "let's go."
The honest caveats
We'd rather you went in clear-eyed.
It's not "tax-free" anymore
Corporate tax, VAT and economic-substance rules now bring real registration and filing duties — even when little tax is due.
Compliance matters
"Set up and forget" is over. Good records and meeting deadlines keep it simple; ignoring them gets expensive.
Structure is everything
The wrong company type is slow and costly to unwind. Getting it right at the start is the whole game.
Dubai, Abu Dhabi or RAK?
"Dubai" is the headline — but it's really the whole UAE, and the right emirate depends on you.
Dubai
The global hub — best for visibility, clients, networking and lifestyle. The default for most.
Abu Dhabi
The capital — strong for finance (ADGM), government-linked work, and a quieter, family feel.
RAK & other emirates
Often the most cost-effective route (RAKEZ) for setup and living, while staying close to Dubai.
We'll point you to the emirate that fits — not just the one everyone names.