Setup a Business in Dubai
- Thread starter Tanjiro B
- Start date
Hawkeye Digital
Rules Violation
- Feb 23, 2022
- 6,316
- 1,699
yes open an company and get started
Interceptor
Newbie
- Jul 1, 2022
- 32
- 23
Yes, you can do that, but it will be costly.
If you're physically in Dubai, it well be cheaper, about 8000 USD.
If you're physically in Dubai, it well be cheaper, about 8000 USD.
TikShop
Junior Member
- Feb 27, 2021
- 113
- 27
Just so you know in advance, you can set up a business almost anywhere, but it doesn't mean you should.
UAE treats non-residents really poorly. You won't be able to open bank accounts in UAE and might have some issues in the future.
On top of that, UAE now introduces the 9% CIT and the accounting + auditing is super unclear.
With that being said, just Google corporate service providers, look at their Trustpilot reviews, or their Google reviews and go with them. Expect to be in 8-10K for the setup.
the best way to start a business in UAE if you are based abroad is to obtain a "Virtual Trade License", this is promoted on various freezones and government authority websites. Be wary of doing anything through a middle man since in most cases it is not required. The most reputable freezone in the UAE is 2454 in Abu Dhabi, they are the least money-grubbing but even that is not saying much.
Check out this webpage for more information: https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/business/obtaining-a-virtual-licence
Be aware. You are walking into a financial wood chipper. There are more hidden fees and costs, the annual cost is likely to exceed $6k realistically, you will also find it difficult to open a bank account. The only hope to open a bank account is with Mashreq Neo, which is kind of like a digital bank. But even then its completely based on your passport and which way the wind is blowing that day.
There is nothing stopping you from doing business online in the UAE from an external company. Especially if you are doing your billing via stripe. This is often more cost-efficient and many freelancers who provide consulting services do this since only the GREs are the ones who will insist suppliers have a local presence and if you are good enough or provide enough value, in my experience many will make an exception to work with you.
Check out this webpage for more information: https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/business/obtaining-a-virtual-licence
Be aware. You are walking into a financial wood chipper. There are more hidden fees and costs, the annual cost is likely to exceed $6k realistically, you will also find it difficult to open a bank account. The only hope to open a bank account is with Mashreq Neo, which is kind of like a digital bank. But even then its completely based on your passport and which way the wind is blowing that day.
There is nothing stopping you from doing business online in the UAE from an external company. Especially if you are doing your billing via stripe. This is often more cost-efficient and many freelancers who provide consulting services do this since only the GREs are the ones who will insist suppliers have a local presence and if you are good enough or provide enough value, in my experience many will make an exception to work with you.
- Nov 21, 2023
- 3,650
- 203
It would be good if you're physically present in Dubai.
Yes possible reply me when you want to kick start as you can operate remotely
- Sep 7, 2021
- 6,658
- 769
LLC in UAE can Work I guess so
- Apr 13, 2024
- 543
- 129
Even remotely, you can secure a much more affordable price !
Yes, you can open a business in Dubai without physically being there! Dubai offers options like virtual company formation and business setup services that allow you to register your company remotely. Many free zones and mainland business setups provide online registration, and you can hire local business consultants to handle the process for you.
However, you may need a local service agent depending on your business type. It’s best to check with Dubai’s official business setup authorities or a reliable consultancy to guide you through the process.
However, you may need a local service agent depending on your business type. It’s best to check with Dubai’s official business setup authorities or a reliable consultancy to guide you through the process.
WAndreas
Elite Member
- Oct 21, 2024
- 1,676
- 1,894
Did it work?
ntaylor123321
Newbie
- Aug 6, 2025
- 14
- 8
cheaper options like what? USA is good for its financial system and i think singapore is low tax but they require a local citizen to be part of your llc.
RML
Regular Member
- Nov 1, 2024
- 401
- 292
Bruh, I know that's not so good open a company there.
It's so expensive, to open and to work.
Why not choose a LLC?
BTW, if you know portuguese, I can recommend a company that sell this service.
I still not a client but I plan buy residency with them.
Builder Dave
Power Member
- Nov 4, 2017
- 653
- 654
Setting up a business in a foreign country is possible, but it's an expense and a liability. Find a few reputable accounting companies that offer these type of services there and talk to all of them in terms of exactly how it works, what responsibilities and liabilities it would bring you and how much it would cost you. Ask them a lot of questions and do additional research based on their answers. At least one of the companies you approach should be a big international name, not just somebody local there. If you are going to do a lot of business, you can also consult a lawyer. I don't know what the risks are, but you should learn about them as there are always risks involved.
After you have done your research, select a good quote for the services from a provider that seems knowledgeable and reliable, not just the cheapest option.
After you have done your research, select a good quote for the services from a provider that seems knowledgeable and reliable, not just the cheapest option.
