UAE

For those who wish to move to warmer climates, live in a safe and thriving country filled with new opportunities should consider relocating to the

United Arab Emirates (UAE).  If this has not been on your list, then there is a long list of benefits in living in the UAE, which include:

• Tax free earnings
• Ranked as one of the top safest countries in the world 2022 for expats
• Diverse culture, with over 90% expats from countries all around the world
• Lifestyle and leisure 
• Year round sunshine and blue skies, but of course there is the summer heat to be aware of
• A balance of city, beaches and mountains
• Vast professional opportunities
• Centrally located between Europe and Asia, with Dubai as an international travel hub
• UAE encourages foreign investment 
• Ongoing Government initiatives to support and encourage small businesses

Whether you are relocating to advance your career, to set up a new company, be closer to loved ones, or are simply looking for a fresh start, you will require a UAE resident visa or a resident permit.  These can be obtained in various ways, the most popular ones are: 

• Permanent employment with a UAE registered company - In this case, your employer will take care of all your visa requirements
• Set up your own business - An ideal solution for entrepreneurs or those who wish to expand their business in the Middle East region 
• Remote working - Allows workers who are employed outside the UAE to work remotely and live legally in the UAE 
• Golden visas - Available with specific requirements in each of the following categories, such as scientists, professionals, exceptional talents, real estate investors, entrepreneurs, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes
• Sponsorship through direct family members - Allowing residents to relocate with their family members including husband/wife, children and parents

In 2022, the UAE Government introduced new visa categories to promote the UAE as the ideal destination to live, work and invest.  The new visas aim to boost the competitiveness and flexibility of the job market and foster a high sense of stability among UAE residents and families.  The following new categories will come into effect from September 2022:

• Green visa for skilled employees 
• Green visa for freelancers and self-employment
• Green visa for investor or partner
• Job exploration entry visa - Aimed to attract young talents and skilled professionals to explore employment opportunities in the UAE
• Business visa - Aimed at investors and entrepreneurs wishing to explore investment opportunities in the UAE
• 5 year multiple entry tourist visa - Allowing a stay of up to 90 days with the option of extending for the same length of time, provided that the total length of stay does not exceed 180 days

Setting up a business in the UAE

Over the years, the UAE has introduced various types of licenses allowing expatriates to build their businesses and brands in the region.  There is a vast amount of information available, which means that it can be both confusing and a minefield to navigate.  Finding the right company to support you throughout the process is vital as mistakes can turn out to be costly within the ever-evolving landscape.

If you are considering the prospects of setting up a new business in the UAE or exploring the option of opening a branch to build your brand in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), this is where we can assist.  We work closely with a specialist team located in Dubai who will find you the most appropriate type of license based on your requirements to establish your business.  Our Partners have years of experience within the industry with clients ranging from large corporations, SME’s (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises), entrepreneurs to freelancers.

The team specialise in Free Zone licenses and Mainland licenses in the UAE, each of which have their own pros and cons.  In the past, 100% ownership was only available for expatriates in Free Zone jurisdictions, however new laws introduced in 2021 allows 100% ownership for some categories and business activities.  The UAE Government is continuously introducing new initiatives to encourage and support new businesses in the region.  Speaking with an expert who makes an effort to understand your business, requirements and your goals is important to ensure that your business is set up correctly from day one. Not only will they manage all the paperwork and guide you through the process, they will continue to support you and your business as you focus on growing your business. 

As well as assisting you with your license for your business, the trusted team can assist you with employee residency visa and dependent visas for those of you who wish to relocate with your family.  In addition, they will also support your business with other essential business solutions through carefully selected partnerships with firms who are all experts in their own field. 

Our Services:  

• Company Set Up Services – Licensing (both Free Zone and Mainland); Establishment Cards/E-Channel/ Immigration Cards alongside all the Corporate Documentation required for you to operate your business legally within the UAE; as well as assistance with activities that require additional approval 
• Office Options – Virtual Office; Flexi Desks; Shared Office spaces: Private Offices; Co-working spaces; Warehouses  
• Visas Services – Residency Visas (Investor; Partner; Employee)  
• Family Services – Dependent Visa, Birth Certificate Applications 
• Correspondence Address and Mail Forwarding Services  
• Dedicated Phone Line Services  
• P.O. Box and Mail Forwarding Services 
• Tourist Services – New Tourist Visa and Tourist Visa Extensions  
• Golden Visa Services
• PRO and VIP Concierge Services
• Legal Services
• Taxation and Accounting
• Insurance
• Wage Protection System (WPS) solutions
• Marketing Solutions & Website Design
• Relocation Services

Contact our team to arrange a complimentary initial consultation (30 minutes) to find out more.