Question 1

How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Most free zone company formations can be completed in 3-7 business days. Mainland companies typically take 1-2 weeks. The total process including visa issuance is usually 2-4 weeks. Bank account opening can take an additional 2-6 weeks depending on the bank and your documentation.

Question 2

Do I need to live in Dubai to have a company there?

Accepted Answer

No, you don't need to be physically present full-time. However, for tax residency benefits, you should spend at least 183 days per year in the UAE. If you're primarily seeking a corporate structure without personal relocation, a free zone entity can be managed remotely, though you'll still need to visit for initial setup, visa processing, and bank account opening.

Question 3

What is the Golden Visa and how do I qualify?

Accepted Answer

The Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa (5 or 10 years) that allows you to live, work, and study in the UAE. Entrepreneurs can qualify through: owning a business with AED 1M+ annual revenue, AED 2M+ in real estate investment, AED 2M+ in financial deposits or investments, or approval from an accredited UAE incubator. It also extends to family members.

Question 4

Is there really no personal income tax in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Correct. The UAE does not levy any personal income tax, capital gains tax, or wealth tax on individuals. However, a 9% corporate tax applies to business profits above AED 375,000 (with free zone exemptions for qualifying income). VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services. Your home country may still tax you on worldwide income until you properly establish UAE tax residency.

Question 5

What is the difference between a free zone and mainland company?

Accepted Answer

Free zone companies enjoy 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, 100% foreign ownership, and simplified regulations, but are restricted from trading directly in the UAE domestic market. Mainland companies can operate anywhere in the UAE and internationally, bid on government contracts, and open retail locations. Recent reforms allow 100% foreign ownership in most mainland activities. Many entrepreneurs set up in both.

Question 6

How much capital do I need to start a business in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

There is no minimum capital requirement for most free zone and mainland company formations. However, practical startup costs include: trade licence (AED 10,000-50,000/year), visa (AED 3,000-7,000 per person), office space (AED 6,000-50,000+/year), and bank account opening (minimal deposit varies). Budget AED 25,000-80,000 for a basic single-person setup including first-year licence and visa.

Question 7

Can I bring my family to Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once you have a valid UAE residence visa, you can sponsor your spouse, children (up to 25 years for sons, unmarried daughters of any age), and parents. You'll need to meet a minimum salary threshold (typically AED 4,000/month or AED 3,000 + accommodation) and provide proof of accommodation. Golden Visa holders can also sponsor one domestic helper.

Question 8

What are the best schools in Dubai for expat children?

Accepted Answer

Dubai has over 200 private schools across multiple curricula. Top-rated options include GEMS schools (multiple curricula), Nord Anglia, Repton, Dubai College, Kings' School, and JESS for British curriculum. For IB, consider Dubai International Academy or Greenfield Community School. French, German, American, and Indian curriculum schools are also well-represented. Apply early — waitlists at premium schools can be 1-2 years.

Question 9

How do I open a corporate bank account?

Accepted Answer

Corporate bank accounts require: a valid trade licence, passport copies of all shareholders, proof of address, a business plan or company profile, source of funds documentation, and sometimes reference letters from existing banks. Major banks include Emirates NBD, ADCB, Mashreq, FAB, and RAKBANK. The process takes 2-6 weeks. Working with an advisory firm significantly improves approval rates, especially for new businesses.

Question 10

What ongoing costs should I budget for?

Accepted Answer

Annual recurring costs include: trade licence renewal (AED 10,000-50,000), visa renewals (every 2-3 years, AED 3,000-7,000 per visa), health insurance (AED 5,000-25,000/person), office/workspace fees, accounting and bookkeeping (AED 5,000-20,000/year), and audit fees if required. Corporate tax filing is required annually for all businesses. VAT returns are filed quarterly if registered.

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