Business Guides & Practical Information
Straightforward guides and expert tips to help you navigate company setup, legal requirements, family relocation, and doing business in the UAE.
- Dubai
- Abu Dhabi
- Sharjah
- Ajman
- Umm Al Quwain
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Fujairah
All articles
The UAE Exit Certificate
The exit certificate for goods confirms that the items being exported comply with all legal and administrative requirements, rules and regulations set by the port authorities. It proves that the goods have already gone through inspection, been prepared for export, and all taxes, duties and fees have been paid.
What types of companies can foreigners open in the UAE?
In the UAE, foreigners have the option to establish mainland, offshore, or free zone companies. Mainland companies have the flexibility to operate throughout the Emirates and across various sectors, although certain activities may require a local partner. Companies registered in free zones can operate exclusively within the designated economic zones or outside the country. These companies enjoy a range of tax benefits and do not require a local partner for incorporation. Offshore companies, on the other hand, are limited to conducting business outside the UAE but can take advantage of the incentives and advantages provided by the Emirates for international business.
Top-10 Advantages of doing business in the UAE
Among the key advantages of doing business in the Emirates are a favourable tax policy, a well-developed banking system, stable economic and political situation in the country, and a convenient international payment system. The government supports entrepreneurs and offers various state programmes and incentives, making business operations in the UAE easier than ever, as well as providing numerous opportunities.
Government business support programs in the UAE
The UAE government supports not only local, but also foreign entrepreneurs. For this purpose, platforms, like The Entrepreneurial Nation, as well as funds and centres have been created to provide assistance from consultations and resolving financial issues to starting a business from scratch. The most popular government programs include Market Expansion to Abu Dhabi, Huawei Cloud Startup Program, Innovation Accelerator Programme, and others.
How Can You Avoid Mistakes When Starting a Business from Scratch in the UAE?
If you want to start a business from scratch in the UAE, you need to know every single aspect involved and take into account all the possible risks. It is not so much the fact of creating a company that is important, but choosing the right structure, jurisdiction, name, licence, line of business, and more.
Buying a ready-made business in the UAE
If you are planning on conducting business in the UAE, it is possible to buy a ready-made company. Before buying anything though, it is important to make sure that the company has a good reputation and has already established a base of customers and suppliers. You will also need to carefully weigh the pros and cons of buying a ready-made business and learn everything you need to know about the company’s documentation, reports, contracts, customer feedback, business plan, and so on. This will help you to make the right decision regarding buying a ready-made business or starting your own from scratch, as well as help you to think about how you want to further develop your business.
Top 10 Advantages of Establishing a Mainland Company in the UAE
A mainland company is an onshore organisation created outside of the Free Zone areas. It can be run by a single owner or have anywhere from two to 50 partners. This type of company can engage in nearly all types of business-related activities.
Starting your own business in Dubai
Many expatriates employed in the UAE consider starting their own business, attracted by the country’s comfortable business environment and favourable tax system. UAE legislation allows employed individuals to start their own business without resigning from their current company. We have developed a step-by-step guide on how to do this and what to pay attention to.
Education in the UAE
One of the most important issues for families planning to relocate to the UAE is to choose an appropriate school for their children. The educational programme, the language and cultural specifics of teaching, cost of education and future perspectives for graduates — everything is worth taking into account. The education system in the United Arab Emirates differs from the Russian one in terms of standards and the duration of study. Here we will describe the opportunities, perspectives and potential challenges of a secondary education in the UAE.
Relocating to the UAE in 2026: Behind the Scenes
In recent years, the United Arab Emirates has strengthened its position as one of the most sought-after destinations for relocation — both for entrepreneurs and families. According to analysts, expats make up the overwhelming majority of the country’s residents: approximately 88% of the UAE’s population are foreigners. At the same time, entrepreneurial activity and real estate investment volumes are growing.
UAE Passport Rises to 8th Place in the 2025 Ranking of the World’s Strongest Passports
In the global 2025 Henley Passport Index, the UAE passport secured the 8th position among the world’s strongest travel documents. A year earlier, it had made its first appearance in the top 10, ranking 9th. Over the past decade, the UAE has made remarkable progress, climbing from 42nd place.
EU Acknowledges UAE’s Progress in Combating Money Laundering
The European Commission plans to remove the UAE from its list of countries deemed to have strategic deficiencies in anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing measures. The updated list is expected to be approved by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU within a month, after which it will enter into force.
Private companies will face a fine of AED 96K (USD 26K) for each UAE citizen who is not employed
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has appealed to private companies to implement the emiratisation plan by December 31, 2024. Business representatives who violate this requirement will face a fine of AED 96K (USD 26K) for each Emirati citizen they have not employed.
A number of businesses in the UAE have until 16 December 2024 to submit data to the Ministry of Economy to assess money laundering risks
The UAE’s National Committee for Combating Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism and Illicit Organisations has initiated a data collection process to assess money laundering risks. Established within the Ministry of Economy in September 2024, the committee aims to enhance compliance and strengthen the country’s financial integrity.
New UAE Traffic Rules and Penalty System to Take Effect in March 2025
The UAE government has announced a new decree regulating traffic rules and penalties in the Emirates. Final decisions on legislative changes will be announced and implemented in March 2025. These changes aim to align regulations with modern global transportation industry standards.
FTA Sets October 31 Deadline for August-September Licensed Companies
The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) urges businesses that received licenses in August or September of any year to register for corporate tax no later than October 31, 2024. Those who fail to register or miss the deadline will face administrative penalties.
Tourists arriving in the Emirates can receive a complimentary eSIM with 10 GB of data
Guests arriving in the UAE are now provided with special electronic SIM cards with 10 GB of free data — eSIM Free Visitor Line. These were developed by the country’s largest telecommunications service provider, e&.
Starting January 2025, Private Joint-Stock Companies in the UAE Must Include at Least One Woman on Their Board of Directors
The UAE Ministry of Economy has issued a directive requiring private joint-stock companies owned by investors to provide at least one board seat to women. This decision, which will take effect from January 2025, aims to ensure gender equality and empower women in business.
Visa amnesty in effect in the UAE from September 1 to October 31, 2024
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced the start of a visa amnesty from September 1, which will last for two months. During this grace period, visa violators - guests and residents in the Emirates with an expired or cancelled visa - can update their status or leave the country, avoiding fines, document processing fees, and entry bans.
The UAE has adopted new measures to combat money laundering and financial crimes
A new Federal Decree-Law has been issued in the UAE, which amends the current legislation on countering money laundering and terrorist financing. It is aimed at protecting the country’s financial ecosystem, strengthening the legal framework to combat illegal financial activities and bringing it in line with international standards.
Changes have been made to the UAE labour legislation aimed at protecting the rights of employees and employers
The UAE government has issued a Federal Decree-Law that amends a similar document on the regulation of labour relations. It is aimed at ensuring the efficiency and competitiveness of the labour market, regulating relations between employers and employees, clearly defining the rights and obligations of the parties and protecting them.
Demand for obtaining a “Golden Visa” through bank deposits is growing in the UAE
Among foreign investors, the method of obtaining a UAE resident "Golden Visa" through a bank deposit is gaining popularity. To be eligible for a 10-year visa, one needs to open a deposit of at least AED 2 million (USD 545,000) in a local bank for a minimum of two years.
Companies and entrepreneurs in the UAE who received a license in July must apply for corporate tax registration by the end of August
The UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) urges companies and entrepreneurs who received a license in July, regardless of the year of issue, to register for corporate tax payment by August 31, 2024. Legal entities and individuals who do not register on time face an administrative fine.
Tajer Abu Dhabi E-commerce License Will Cover 12 New Types of Activities
The Business Center at the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has added 12 new directions to the list of activities eligible for the Tajer Abu Dhabi license. This license allows engagement in e-commerce without purchasing or renting an office for three years.
In 2024 and 2025, all small and medium-sized businesses in the UAE must employ at least one Emirati national
As part of the national emiratisation program, companies with between 20-49 employees must employ at least one UAE national in 2024 and 2025. Previously, this requirement applied only to entities with a staff of 50 people or more.
UAE ranked third in the world among the best countries to launch a business in 2024
Business Name Generator – part of Adventrum Group – has analysed the conditions for launching startups in 52 countries around the world. According to their findings, the UAE came in third after Hungary and the Netherlands. The Philippines, Italy and Brazil were identified as the most difficult countries for starting a business due to their comparatively high taxes and burdensome bureaucracy.
UAE to allocate AED 20B (USD 5.45B) to a new humanitarian initiative
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan announced the launch of a new initiative focused on supporting those in need in various countries worldwide. The charity will be allocated approximately AED 20B (USD 5.45B) in funds.
Penalties for violating UAE legislation of renewing/obtaining visas and Emirates IDs
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has developed a classification of administrative offences related to obtaining and renewing visas and Emirates IDs. Individuals and legal entities that violate these laws could face fines ranging from AED 20 (USD 5.5) to AED 20K (USD 5,5K).
Violating registration deadlines to register as a taxable entity in the UAE will result in a fine of AED 10K (USD 2.7K)
The UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has set new deadlines for companies to register as taxable entities. This decision came into force on 1 March, 2024. Those found to be in violation of registration deadlines will be subject to a fine of AED 10K (USD 2.7K).
Citizens of any country can make use of Dubai’s new AED 500M (USD 136M) support program for small and medium-sized businesses
The government of Dubai, in collaboration with Emirates NBD Bank, has launched a new initiative to support entrepreneurs. The emirate has created a special program called the Dubai International Growth Fund for SMEs and has already allocated AED 500M (USD 136M) worth of funds. Anyone can apply for financial support through this initiative, regardless of nationality, as long as they own a business in Dubai and aim to expand it into the international market.
New ways to get a Golden visa by purchasing property in Dubai
The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has relaxed the requirements for issuing a 10-year Golden visa to investors who buy property in the construction stage or with a mortgage, as long as the property is worth AED 2M (USD 545K) or more.
UAE tax authorities to tighten enforcement through direct access to credit reports
The UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has entered into an agreement with the Etihad Credit Bureau, a federal bureau that collects credit data from banks and other organisations in the UAE. The contract was signed by Khalid Ali Al Bustani, the Director General of the Federal Tax Authority, and Marwan Ahmad Lutfi, the Head of the Etihad Credit Bureau. The main objectives of this partnership are to maintain a high level of compliance with UAE tax laws.
In 2024, the UAE came in 11th place in the ranking of the world’s strongest passports
The UAE has recently been ranked 11th in a survey of the world’s strongest passports, moving up two spots in the past year. An Emirati passport allows UAE citizens to visit 183 countries without needing to first obtain a visa.
The Emirates Ministry of Economy has launched a register of family companies
The UAE Ministry of Economy (MoE) has announced four new cabinet resolutions in the family business sector. Resolution No. 109, dated 2023, involves the launch of a unified registry of family businesses in the country. The other three decrees - Nos. 106, 107 and 108 of 2023 - deal with the registration of a family company's articles of association on the ministry's website, the issuance and purchase of shares by these companies, among others.
Individuals with business income in the UAE of AED 1M (USD 272K) or more per annum, must register for corporate tax payment
The UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has developed guidelines on corporate taxation. According to the document, individuals with business income of at least AED 1M (USD 272K) must register for corporate tax. This applies to both residents and those who live outside the UAE, but earn profits here. Income for the year is taken into account in accordance with the Gregorian calendar.
The UAE is introducing free mandatory licences for private tutors
The UAE Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) have collectively introduced a new licence for anyone who conducts private tutoring outside of schools and colleges. Not only are professional educators in both the private and public school systems eligible for the licence, but professionals in other private or public sectors, the unemployed, university students and even high school students aged 15 to 18 years old can obtain the licence and begin holding private lessons.
A new bankruptcy law in the UAE is aimed at concluding an amicable agreement between debtor and creditor in the event of unpaid debts
The UAE has adopted a new bankruptcy law that will come into effect as of May 1st, 2024. The amendments to the law are aimed at protecting the interests of all parties involved and resolving conflicts as amicably as possible. The goal is to facilitate the conclusion of a peaceful agreement and avoid the need to file for bankruptcy.
Ras Al Khaimah will reduce licensing fees for small and medium-sized business by 25%
Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and a member of the Supreme Council, has ordered a 25% reduction in the cost of licensing for small and medium-sized businesses in the emirate. This decision is just one of the measures being taken to control the amount of influence the government has over the development of different sectors of the economy and to ensure the stable development of the emirate as a whole.
By 2025, the UAE investment technology market is expected to see a 145% growth
The market for technology, which is aimed at making investing in the UAE more accessible and convenient, is predicted to grow 145%, reaching AED 1.19B (USD 325M) by the year 2025. The number of companies in this field is expected to grow by a third, from 294 to 386. This forecast was given by UnaFinancial, a group of global companies.
Accounting in the UAE must now be accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards
The UAE has unified the rules and regulations regarding accounting - only International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) can be used. This rule is stipulated in the UAE Ministry of Finance Ministerial Decision No. 114 of 2023. This decree sets forth to regulate accounting for corporate taxation.
The UAE Ministry of Finance has approved new tax rules regarding income from intellectual property and stock market trading
In November 2023, Cabinet Decision No. 100 and Ministerial Decision No. 265 were issued by the UAE Ministry of Finance which established new tax rules in connection with income earned from intellectual property and stock market trading. These decrees aim to regulate the amount of tax to be paid on intellectual property income and to exempt the income earned from trading certain commodities on stock exchanges from taxation.
A 3.2% growth in Dubai’s economy in H1 2023
On October 15th, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and the Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, posted a tweet about the strong performance of Dubai’s economy. The economy has achieved a tremendous growth of 3.2% in H1 2023 as compared to H1 2022, with the value now reaching a total of AED 223.8B (USD 61B).
Dubai attracted AED 20.87B (USD 5.68B) in foreign direct investment in 511 new projects in the first half of 2023
From January to June of 2023, the emirate of Dubai attracted AED 20.87B (USD 5.68B) in foreign direct investment (FDI) in new greenfield projects. The emirate’s share of global greenfield FDI nearly doubled from 3.83% in the first half of 2022 to 6.58%.
In the first 9 months of 2023, institutional investors invested nearly AED 8B (USD 2.2B) in UAE equities
In 2023, investments in UAE markets by institutional investors increased. From January to September, net purchases of shares (purchases minus sales) amounted to almost AED 8B (USD 2.2B). This is due to the expansion of investment opportunities, the country’s overall economic growth trend, and the strong performance of local companies and their attractiveness to investors.
There will be 25 strategic partnerships established in the UAE to support 100 of the best companies and startups
To implement the Future100 initiative, 25 strategic partnerships will be established in the UAE. Their work will be aimed at supporting 100 companies and startups that contribute to the competitiveness of various sectors of the Emirate’s future economy. The first partnership agreements will be announced on December 2nd, 2023, which also corresponds to UAE National Day and World Future Day.
In the first half of 2023, Dubai issued 52% more Golden visas than in previous periods
The total number of residence visas issued in Dubai from January to June 2023 was 63% higher than the amount issued in the first half of 2022. The number of Golden visas also grew by 52% during this time. The General Directorate of Resident and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) reported that, in addition to residence visas, the number of tourist visas issued increased by 21% in 2023.
In Dubai, there is a 10-year prison sentence for forgery of visas and residence permits
The law enforcement agencies of Dubai have sent out a reminder through social media that the forgery of visas, residence permits, or other official documents is illegal. Violation can result in imprisonment for up to 10 years.
The penalty for an expired visa in the UAE for tourists and residents is AED 50 (USD 13) per day
The UAE government has reduced the fine for an expired visa from AED 100 (USD 27) to AED 50 (USD 13) per day. This decision was made to encourage tourists and residents of the country to renew their documents in a timely manner.
Business in Dubai has demonstrated the fastest growth in the last 10 months
In June 2023, companies in Dubai not related to the oil sector demonstrated the fastest development in the last ten months. The main Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) in Dubai, according to S&P Global, reached 56.9, which is 1.6 points higher compared to the May figures of 55.3.
UAE Ministry of Finance unveils five strategic transformational projects
The UAE's Ministry of Finance has announced five major projects to improve government financial work. They include local supply strategies, transparency in climate data, corporate tax, public-private partnership and an e-billing system.
The Dubai Land Development (DLD) launches a privileges registry for Real Estate Investment Trusts (REIT)
The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has launched a privileges registry for Real Estate Investment Trusts (REIT). It is possible for both local and international real estate trust companies to sign up.
The top UAE students can obtain Golden Visas
The Federal Authority for Identification, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has announced that the top students in the UAE can obtain Golden Visas. This initiative is a way for the government to recognize and reward students for their efforts, perseverance, and commitment to acquiring knowledge.
UAE prolonged the deadline to register in the unemployment system to 1 October 2023
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced the extension of the deadline to register for unemployment insurance. The date was moved from 30 June to 30 September 2023. Those who fail; to be insured by 1 October face fines of AED 400 (USD 109).
Which conditions must be met for UAE visa holders to receive tax residency status
A UAE residence visa does not grant the holder automatic tax residency in the country. As of March 1st, 2023, Cabinet Decision No. 85 of 2022 came into effect in the Emirates, establishing rules for receiving tax residency.
Companies based in the UAE will pay a 9% corporate tax
As of June 1st, 2023, the Taxation of Corporations and Businesses, Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022, will come into effect. Due to this, companies that are registered in the UAE will be required to pay a federal corporate tax. This tax directly affects medium- and large-sized businesses, and will result in 9% of company profits to be paid to stay in compliance with the law. The federal tax will be instituted throughout the whole of the emirates.
Family Visa in Dubai
Dubai consistently ranks among the top most comfortable locations for families in the world. If you move here for work, business or simply for a comfortable life and become a UAE resident, you can bring your close relatives to the country. This is an excellent opportunity to settle your entire family in one of the world's most developed metropolises with top-notch social, business and resort infrastructure.
Companies registered in the Dubai FEZ will have the right to operate throughout the emirate
The Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, issued Executive Council Resolution No. (11) dated 2025. It expands business opportunities for companies registered in the emirate's free economic zones (FEZ).
Interested in having us find the perfect property for you?
Fill out the form, and our personal broker will help you find the best property to purchase. You'll also receive a free PDF with visa availability across different emirates.
