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Companies from all over the world are shifting business to the UAE – and savvy entrepreneurs looking to start a successful business are following suit. If you’re considering making the move, this article will explore how to start a business in Dubai and the UAE as a foreigner or non-resident. We will discuss the following topics:
Why to do Business in the UAE?

Zero corporate tax & Income tax

Transparent laws and regulations

Low start-up and operational cost

World class infrastructure

Strategic geographical location

More than 20000 companies within 50km

Company setup options starting from AED 5,750

100% foreign ownership permitted

100% repatriation of capital and profits

01.

A stable currency

The United Arab Emirates dirham – AED – has been used as the region’s official currency since 1973 and is one of the world’s most stable currencies in terms of exchange rate stability. In fact, it has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997 at an exchange rate of 1 US dollar to 3.6725 AED. .
02.

Tax-efficient economy

Savvy entrepreneurs and business owners can maximise profits in the UAE thanks to one of the most competitive tax regimes in the world. Business owners pay zero income tax, no VAT on residential property and no corporate tax if they’re operating from a free zone.  
03.

Easy connectivity

Strategically located in the heart of the Middle East, business owners in the UAE can enjoy easy access to emerging markets in Europe, Asia and Africa. It’s a direct flight from 97 countries, with one-third of the global population less than a four-hour flight away and two-thirds less than an eight-hour flight away. It is also home to two of the world’s busiest airports – Dubai International and Dubai World Central.

 

04.

World-class healthcare

The UAE boasts a highly advanced healthcare infrastructure, with leading medical institutions, healthcare capabilities and access for all. The government has invested enormous sums into the sector and the region now offers one of the best healthcare systems in the world.  
05.

Communal harmony

Close to 90% of the UAE’s population comes from abroad, with an estimated 200 nationalities living alongside one another. As well as offering a greater variety of food and culture, this large expatriate population makes relocating much easier. Research highlights that people are happy here too, and there’s even a dedicated Minister of State for Happiness to make sure of it.  
06.

World-class amenities

The UAE is renowned for its frequently jaw-dropping infrastructure, which includes soaring skyscrapers, record-breaking public transport and first-rate public spaces. Business owners can benefit from a higher quality of life, without spending more on it.
07.

Safety

The UAE frequently ranks as one of the safest destinations in the world in the Global Law and Order Report. Crime rates are low, penalties for breaking the law are severe and law enforcement is taken extremely seriously.
08.

Open and free system

On the whole, the UAE is an open and tolerant society with a dynamic and robust legal framework that supports entrepreneurs. When combined with favourable economic policies, minimum government control and regulations that facilitate Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), it’s easy to see why the region frequently ranks as one of the top places in the world for ‘ease of doing businesses.
09.

UAE residence visa

Business owners can obtain a UAE residence visa in a number of different ways, including through company formation, 10-year golden visas, real estate residency, remote work and as a retiree. A bespoke company formation setup service, such as Alsama financial service, can help speed up the process too.

Types of business licences in the UAE for foreigners

Types of business licences in the UAE for foreigners
Four main types of business licences for foreigners in Dubai and the UAE

In order to operate a business in Dubai or the UAE, you will need to ensure you have the correct business licence. There are four main types of business licences for foreigners in Dubai and the UAE:

01.

commercial licence

Required for businesses that trade, import and export any number of goods, from spare parts to foodstuffs.  
02.

Professional licence

Required for a service business or skilled professional with a specific field of expertise, such as consultancy, law and project management.  
03.

Industrial licence

Required for businesses involved in the production or manufacturing of goods, such as textiles, equipment and the food industry.  
04.

Tourism licence

Required to operate a business in the tourism sector, such as tour operators and travel agents..  
Four main types of business licences for foreigners in Dubai and the UAE

UAE Free Zone offers some of the most affordable business setup packages in the UAE, starting at just AED 5,750. However, you will need to take into consideration additional costs, such as medical tests, visa quotas, business activities and office space. Get in touch with Al sama financial service team for an accurate and bespoke quote tailored to your requirements.

Get in touch with Al sama financial service team

For an accurate and bespoke quote tailored to your requirements.