Emigrate to Dubai by setting up a company: The ultimate guide for entrepreneurs

For years, Dubai has been a magnet for entrepreneurs looking for new opportunities to expand their business internationally. For Germans, Swiss and other European business people in particular, the desert state offers numerous advantages. Setting up a company in Dubai is not only the key to tax advantages, but also an attractive option for those looking to emigrate permanently to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

In this article, we will show you why Dubai is the ideal location for setting up your company and how you can emigrate to Dubai by establishing a company.

1. Why Dubai for your company formation?

Dubai has established itself as a global business center that offers attractive conditions for entrepreneurs from all over the world. Here are the main advantages of setting up a company in Dubai:

• Tax benefitsDubai has no income tax and very low corporate taxes. This makes the UAE one of the most attractive locations for international business.
• Strategic locationWith its central location between Europe, Asia and Africa, Dubai is the ideal hub for international trade. Access to global markets is unbeatable.
• Modern infrastructureDubai offers a first-class infrastructure with modern office buildings, logistics centers, airports and ports that are crucial to the success of your business.
• Stable economy and securityPolitical stability and a high level of personal security make Dubai one of the safest places to run and live a business.

2. Company formation in Dubai: The best types of companies

Before you emigrate to Dubai, you need to decide on the right corporate structure. The two most common options for foreign investors are the Free trade zone companies and the Mainland companies.

• Free ZonesThese offer 100 % of foreign ownership, simple incorporation procedures and no trade restrictions within the free zones. Popular free zones include the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) and the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC).
• Mainland companiesIf you want to operate on the local market outside the free trade zones, you must set up a mainland company. Here you often need a local partner who holds 51 % of the shares. Nevertheless, there are many advantages, such as the ability to trade directly with the local market and enter into contracts with government authorities.

3. Steps to setting up a company in Dubai

Setting up a company in Dubai is a relatively simple process if you know what steps are required:

• 1. choose the right type of companyDepending on your business model, you can choose either a free zone company or a mainland company.
• 2. secure a business licenseEach industry requires a specific license. There are three main types: Commercial, service and industrial licenses.
• 3. select the locationYour choice of location is crucial as this will influence the type of license you need. Free zones offer specific advantages, while mainland companies have more flexibility when entering the market.
• 4. register your companyRegistration with the relevant authorities and obtaining a license from the Dubai Economic Department (DED) or the respective free zone authority is crucial.
• 5. apply for a bank accountAfter setting up your company, you can open a business bank account with a local or international bank in Dubai.

4. Emigrating to Dubai by setting up a company

Probably the biggest advantage of setting up a company in Dubai is the possibility of obtaining a long-term residence permit. Once your company is registered, you can obtain a Investor Visa or a Entrepreneur visas which allows you and your family to stay permanently in the UAE. Here are the most important points:

• Investor VisaWith this visa you can live in Dubai as a business owner. The validity of the visa is usually 2 to 3 years, with the possibility of an extension.
• Entrepreneur visasThis visa is aimed specifically at entrepreneurs who want to implement a new business idea in Dubai. This visa is also valid for several years and can be extended.

With a valid visa, you can enjoy a high quality of life in Dubai, access to first-class educational facilities for your children and modern healthcare.

5. Living in Dubai: What you should know as an expatriate

Dubai not only offers business advantages, but also an exceptional quality of life. Here are some aspects you should consider:

• Cost of livingDubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle, but there are also affordable housing options and living costs that vary depending on your lifestyle.
• Education and healthThe UAE has first-class schools and hospitals that are designed to meet both Arab and international standards.
• Culture and leisureDubai is a multicultural center that attracts people from all over the world. You can enjoy international cuisine, cultural events and a variety of leisure activities.

6. Successfully emigrating to Dubai by setting up a company

Setting up a company in Dubai not only offers the opportunity to expand in one of the world's most dynamic markets, but also opens the door to a new life in the UAE. With numerous benefits, from tax savings to a high quality of life, Dubai is an ideal place for entrepreneurs looking for new opportunities. If you are planning to emigrate to Dubai, make sure you go through the company formation process carefully and follow all the necessary steps.

If you need help with setting up a company and emigrating to Dubai, you can contact Setupco at your side. We offer customized solutions for company formation in Dubai and help you every step of the way to make your dream of a successful life and business in Dubai a reality.