In recent years, Dubai has become a magnet for international companies and entrepreneurs. Many Britons in particular are moving to Dubai to do business or set up companies. But what exactly makes Dubai so attractive for Brits? In this article, we take a closer look at why Dubai is becoming increasingly popular as a business location for British entrepreneurs.

1. Tax advantages

One of the most obvious reasons why Brits prefer Dubai as a business location is the enormous tax advantages. The UK has comparatively high income and corporate taxes, while Dubai is extremely favorable in this respect. Until recently there were no corporate taxes in Dubai and even today the tax regime is very attractive. The new corporate tax of 9 % only applies to profits above AED 375,000 (approximately £82,000), which is irrelevant for many start-ups and smaller businesses. In addition, there is no income tax, capital gains tax or wealth tax, which makes Dubai particularly tempting for private individuals from the UK.

For British entrepreneurs who are used to handing over a significant proportion of their income to the tax office, this means considerable relief. The additional funds can be reinvested to grow the business faster or used for personal investments.

2. Strategic location and global connections

Dubai is located at a crossroads between Europe, Asia and Africa and offers an ideal base for international business activities. For Brits looking to expand globally, Dubai's geographical location is an invaluable advantage. A flight from London to Dubai only takes around seven hours, making it relatively easy to commute regularly between the two locations or make business trips to the region.

Dubai's excellent connections through Dubai International Airport - one of the busiest airports in the world - make it possible to maintain business relationships all over the world. For British entrepreneurs looking to tap into markets in Asia or Africa, Dubai also offers an ideal base from which to operate locally while having quick access to European markets.

3. Free trade zones and 100 % company ownership

Another big advantage for Brits looking to set up a business in Dubai is the numerous free zones. In these zones, foreign entrepreneurs can retain 100 % ownership of their business without the need for a local partner. This is particularly attractive compared to other countries in the Gulf region, where foreign investors are often forced to cede the majority of their business to local partners.

Free zones such as the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), Dubai Internet City or Dubai Media City also offer additional incentives such as duty-free access and simplified business start-up processes. These zones are specifically geared towards certain industries and offer entrepreneurs from the UK who are active in these sectors ideal conditions to start or expand their business.

4. Political stability and security

In times of increasing uncertainty in many parts of the world, whether due to political instability or economic challenges, British entrepreneurs value Dubai's stability. The United Arab Emirates, of which Dubai is a part, is politically stable and considered safe. This is an important factor for investors and entrepreneurs who need to be confident that their capital and assets are being managed in a secure environment.

Dubai has one of the lowest crime rates in the world and the government is committed to creating a safe and business-friendly environment. For Britons who are used to living in a country with a high level of rule of law, Dubai offers similar standards of compliance and security for their investments.

5. Luxurious lifestyle and high quality of life

Another incentive for many Brits to move to Dubai is the luxurious lifestyle the city offers. Dubai is known for its state-of-the-art infrastructure, impressive skyscrapers, luxurious hotels and world-class leisure facilities. For British entrepreneurs who are used to a high standard of living, Dubai offers many amenities that allow them to enjoy the best of both worlds, both professionally and personally.

In addition, Dubai offers a warm climate that attracts many Brits looking to escape the cool and rainy weather conditions in the UK. Beaches, golf courses, world-class restaurants and shopping malls ensure that Dubai is not only a place to work, but also a place to live and relax.

6. Growing business opportunities in various sectors

Over the past decades, Dubai has evolved from a desert city to a global hub for various industries. British entrepreneurs can find numerous opportunities in Dubai in sectors such as real estate, trade, finance, technology and tourism. The real estate market in Dubai is booming and many British investors and real estate developers have already recognized this growing market.

Dubai's digitalization and technological progress also offer a multitude of opportunities for British start-ups and tech companies. The city actively promotes innovation and offers numerous government programs and initiatives that support young companies in particular.

7. Cultural openness and international networks

Dubai is a multicultural city where over 200 nationalities live and work. This makes the city an ideal place for British entrepreneurs who want to benefit from a global network. The language of business in Dubai is English, which makes it much easier for British business people to get started. As Dubai has been a popular destination for British expats for decades, there is also a strong local British network that facilitates exchange and networking between entrepreneurs.

Furthermore, the United Arab Emirates is very open to foreign investors and actively promotes foreign companies that contribute to the country's economic development. This creates a positive environment in which British entrepreneurs are welcomed and can successfully build their businesses.

8. Simplified company formation and bureaucracy

While there are often complicated bureaucratic hurdles to overcome in the UK, the process of setting up a company in Dubai is comparatively simple. The government has made it its mission to make the company formation process as straightforward as possible. Many formalities can be completed online and setting up a company in one of the free zones can often be completed within a few days.

These efficient processes allow British entrepreneurs to quickly focus on their core business without wasting a lot of time on red tape. In addition, the government offers numerous support services for foreign investors, including special advisors and services that simplify the start-up process even further.

9. Access to capital and investments

Dubai is a growing financial center that attracts both private and institutional investors. For UK entrepreneurs seeking access to capital, this is a key advantage. The city offers a variety of funding opportunities, from venture capital funds to angel investors and family offices, who are constantly on the lookout for promising new projects.

In addition, the UAE government actively promotes start-ups and innovation projects, which means that British entrepreneurs working in these areas can benefit from additional government funding.

Dubai offers British entrepreneurs a unique combination of tax benefits, world-class infrastructure, political stability and a luxurious lifestyle. Its strategic location, abundant business opportunities and ease of setting up a business make Dubai an ideal location for British entrepreneurs looking to expand internationally or simply operate in a business-friendly environment. With its cosmopolitan culture, secure investment conditions and numerous networking opportunities, Dubai is undoubtedly one of the most attractive locations for British business people looking for new challenges and growth opportunities.