Everything you NEED to know about setting up a business in Dubai | Q&A with expert consultant

Summary

Summer and her partner interview Shalin, an expert on setting up businesses in Dubai. They discuss the step-by-step process of establishing a company in Dubai or the UAE, including the main options like free zone vs mainland, required costs, visa logistics, tax benefits, and lifestyle perks. Shalin outlines the key differences between business setup routes based on the company's activities. She explains legal considerations around property investments and residency visas. Summer and Matt describe their positive firsthand experience working with Shalin's company for their own Dubai business registration and visa process.

Takeaways

• 😊 There are multiple business setup options in the UAE like Mainland, Free Zone, offshore etc. depending on your business activity and plans
• 💡 It's important to have a consultation to determine the best business setup option based on short and long term goals
• 📝 Free Zone setup is more common for location independent online businesses looking for residency
• 🔍 Mainland setup allows more flexibility to work with local UAE companies but has more requirements
• 💰 Business setup costs vary greatly based on type and number of visasrequired
• ✅ Residency visas allow you to get a local bank account and freedom to enter/exit the UAE
• 👪 Once you get a residency visa, you can easily sponsor visas for your spouse and children
• 🏢 Beyond company setup, you can get help with relocation, real estate, schools etc.
• 📈 No minimum revenue required to setup a business, UAE welcomes startups and large enterprises alike
• 🤝 Expert help navigating requirements and options ensures smooth business setup experience

Q & A

What are the different business set up options available in the UAE?

The main options are Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore companies. The choice depends on factors like the business activity, target customers, expansion plans, etc. Free Zone companies can only do business outside the UAE or inside their specific Free Zone, while Mainland companies have no restrictions.

What are some of the benefits of setting up a business in the UAE?

Some major benefits are - no personal or corporate income tax, easy access to markets in Europe, Africa, Middle East due to strategic location, great infrastructure and lifestyle.

How can someone get a UAE residence visa without setting up a business?

Options are - getting an employment visa if you find a job, golden visa if you buy property worth AED 2M+, green visa for skilled professionals, or other investment/income-based visas.

What is the process and timeline for setting up a Mainland business?

It takes about 2 weeks to get the license, then 2-10 days for medical tests and visa stamping. Most of it can be done remotely, you only need to visit for medicals and signing legal docs.

How much does it cost to set up a business with one visa in the UAE?

In the Free Zone with basic license it can start from AED 18k-20k. For Mainland it's more expensive, around AED 80k-100k+, depending on type of visa.

Does my overseas business need to be a certain size before I can set it up in the UAE?

No, the UAE welcomes businesses of all sizes and stages, whether you are just starting up or are an established global company.

Can I get a freelance visa in the UAE?

Yes, there are freezone licenses that allow you to get a freelance or entrepreneur visa, which is suitable for independent professionals.

How can I protect my UAE assets from Sharia inheritance laws?

You can hold your UAE assets in an offshore holding company or foundation registered outside the UAE. This avoids automatic application of Sharia laws after death.

Can I sponsor my family if I get a UAE residence visa?

Yes, once you have your own visa you can easily sponsor your spouse and children to also get residence visas.

Do I need a UAE business license just to rent out my UAE property?

No you don't if you engage an estate agency to handle listings, contracts and other legal aspects. As an owner you can do minor things yourself without needing a license.