How can I start a Busines in Dubai and get a Visa?

Starting a business in Dubai and obtaining a visa involves the following steps:

1. Choose a business structure: Decide on the type of company you want to set up (e.g., sole proprietorship, limited liability company, etc.).
2. Register the business: Register the company with the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
3. Obtain a trade license: Get a trade license from the DED or the Dubai Chamber of Commerce.
4. Open a bank account: Open a bank account in Dubai for your business.
5. Apply for a visa: Once you have registered your business, you can apply for a work visa. To do so, you need to provide documentation such as passport, residency visa, health certificate, and labor contract.

You can also consider setting up your business in one of the many free zones in the UAE. Free zones offer a tax-free environment, 100% foreign ownership, and simplified business setup procedures. Some of the popular free zones in the UAE include:

1. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
2. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
3. Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA)
4. Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA)
5. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)

The process of setting up a business in a free zone is similar to setting up a business in Dubai, but there are some specific requirements for each free zone. You will need to choose the free zone that best suits your business requirements, register with the free zone authority, and apply for a trade license.

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You can also apply for a residency visa through the free zone authority, which typically requires you to provide similar documentation as when applying for a visa in Dubai.

‍Again, requirements and procedures may change, so it is advisable to check with the relevant free zone authority for the most up-to-date information.Setting up a company in a UAE free zone can be a favorable option for businesses looking for a tax-free environment and 100% foreign ownership. However, there are some specific considerations to keep in mind when setting up a company in a UAE free zone, including:

1. Free Zone Authority: Each free zone in the UAE has its own set of regulations and procedures for company registration. It's important to research and choose the free zone that best suits your business requirements and then follow the procedures set by the relevant free zone authority.
2. Trade License: A trade license is required to operate a business in a UAE free zone. The free zone authority will provide information on the specific requirements and fees for obtaining a trade license.
3. Office Space: Most free zones require companies to rent office space within the free zone, which can be more expensive than mainland office rentals.
4. Residency Visas: Residency visas can be obtained through the free zone authority for the company's employees. However, the specific requirements and fees for residency visas may vary between free zones.
5. Business Activities: Some free zones may have restrictions on the types of business activities that can be carried out. It's important to research and confirm that your proposed business activities are allowed within the chosen free zone.
6. Cost: Setting up a company in a UAE free zone can be more expensive than setting up a mainland company, with higher fees for trade licenses, office rentals, and residency visas.
   

The taxation system in Dubai is quite simple and has a number of advantages for both businesses and people. 

For businesses: 

1. Corporate Income Tax: Dubai has a new corporate income tax of 9%.  However, some businesses, such oil corporations, could be charged a corporate income tax rate of 55%. 

2. Value-Added Tax (VAT): Businesses in Dubai are required to pay VAT, which is presently fixed at 5%, on a variety of goods and services. 

Individuals: 

1. Personal Income Tax: Dubai does not impose a personal income tax including rental income. 

2. VAT: Individuals must pay VAT on a few items and services. 

It's crucial to keep in mind that these tax rates might alter and could be different for companies operating in Dubai free zones, which frequently provide tax-free conditions.

To have a thorough grasp of Dubai's taxation system and to choose the best course of action for your company, it is important to consult a competent service provider.

Contact us now to learn more about setting up a business and obtaining a UAE residency visa.

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