What industries are propelling Dubai's economic growth?

Dubai’s economy relies on various sectors, including tourism, real estate, finance, logistics,, and technology. These industries have been critical to the city’s quick development.

How straightforward is it for foreign investors to initiate a business in Dubai?

Dubai has streamlined the entry process for foreign investors. In numerous sectors, you can now enjoy 100% ownership of your business, making it exceptionally accessible for international entrepreneurs to establish a foothold. With government initiatives and investor-friendly policies, the city has cut through bureaucracy and simplified procedures.

What types of business licenses can I obtain in Dubai?

Dubai offers several types of business licenses, catering to commercial, industrial, professional, and tourism activities, among others. Selecting the appropriate license for your business activity is essential, and the government provides clear guidance to assist in making the right choice.

Are there any tax incentives for businesses in Dubai?

Dubai stands out with its tax-friendly environment, featuring no personal income tax and low or zero corporate tax rates. Furthermore, the city has established double taxation treaties with numerous countries, minimizing tax obligations for international businesses and investors.

What are the steps involved in registering a business in Dubai?

Registering a business in Dubai entails selecting your business activity, determining the most suitable legal structure, completing company registration, obtaining essential permits, and opening a corporate bank account. To ensure a seamless registration journey, seeking guidance from business experts or government authorities is highly recommended.

Why Dubai & UAE

Why founders choose Dubai and the UAE

Low taxes, full foreign ownership, a safe and connected home base, and a straightforward path to residency — the UAE is one of the easiest and most rewarding places in the world to build a business. Here’s what makes it work, and how Bizvisor helps you get set up.

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Why the UAE

Reasons to set up in Dubai and the UAE

Low, simple taxes

No personal income tax and no capital gains tax on individuals. Corporate tax is just 9%, and only on profits above AED 375,000 — with 0% below that and on qualifying free-zone income. VAT is a low 5%.

100% foreign ownership

Own your company outright. Full foreign ownership is available across every free zone, and on most mainland activities since the 2021 reforms — no local sponsor required.

A global hub

Sitting between Europe, Asia and Africa, the UAE puts around two billion consumers within a four-hour flight. World-class airports and ports like Jebel Ali make it a natural base for trade and logistics.

Fast, digital setup

Business setup is quick and largely online. A free-zone licence can be issued in roughly one to two weeks, backed by pro-business regulation that’s designed to get you trading sooner.

Safe, high quality of life

One of the safest countries in the world, home to 200+ nationalities, with English widely used in business and strong healthcare and schools — an easy place to live and to relocate a team.

Residency and stability

Owning a business can lead to UAE residence visas, including the 10-year Golden Visa. The dirham is pegged to the US dollar, giving you a stable currency and a strong banking and startup ecosystem.

Getting started

And it’s easy to get started

The advantages are real, but they only count once your company is actually set up — with the right jurisdiction, the right licence, and a bank account that opens without a fuss. That’s the part where founders get stuck, and it’s exactly where Bizvisor comes in.

We match your activity and goals to the best route — mainland, free zone or offshore — handle the paperwork, licences and approvals, and do the groundwork for your visas and bank account. You get the real cost and timeline up front, and a team that stays with you long after the licence is issued.

FAQ

Setting up in the UAE — common questions

A few things founders ask before they make the move.

Ask AgentBiz

Do I really pay 0% tax in the UAE?

There’s no personal income tax and no capital gains tax on individuals. Companies pay 9% corporate tax, but only on profits above AED 375,000 — profits below that are taxed at 0%, and qualifying free-zone income can also be 0%. A 5% VAT applies to most goods and services.

Can I own 100% of my company as a foreigner?

Yes. Full foreign ownership is available in all free zones, and on most mainland activities following the 2021 reforms, so in the great majority of cases you won’t need a local sponsor. We’ll confirm what applies to your specific activity.

Does setting up a business get me a residence visa?

It can. Owning a UAE company can make you eligible for a residence visa, and higher-value investors may qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa. We handle the visa process end to end, from medical to Emirates ID.

How long does it take to set up?

Timelines vary by jurisdiction and activity, but many free-zone licences are issued in roughly one to two weeks. Once we know your plan, we’ll give you a realistic timeline and the exact steps involved.