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If you’re a savvy UK entrepreneur considering Dubai’s tax benefits and prime location, you might be asking: Can I open a company in Dubai without living there? Well, the answer is a resounding yes.
This concept of relocating to the UAE is huge. Over 2,500 UK-owned businesses have registered themselves in the UAE in 2024; with a 14.2% yearly jump in foreign company registrations. British entrepreneurs are clearly loving the idea of enjoying all that Dubai has to offer while happily remaining rooted in the UK.
Dubai offers compelling advantages that go beyond the glossy skyline. Below are the benefits you will have as a UK entrepreneur:
1. Tax efficiency
Isn’t this better than paying 25% corporate tax in the UK?
2. Geographic location
In the heart of the UAE, Dubai sits at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, giving you access to over 2 billion people within a 4-hour flight radius.
3. 100% Foreign ownership
Recent regulatory reforms mean you can own your company outright as no local partner is required in Free Zones and most mainland sectors.
4. Business-friendly environment
Dubai makes it easy to start a business remotely. Most paperwork can be done online or sent by courier, and there’s no need to be physically present when setting up.
5. Skilled international workforce
The UAE attracts talent from around the world, creating a diverse and skilled workforce. Companies have access to professionals in areas like technology, finance, and hospitality. This rich mix of talent encourages innovation and gives businesses more flexibility.
6. Strong banking system
The UAE has a safe and reliable banking system that helps both businesses and people. Local and international banks offer services like business accounts and online banking. Rules and regulations ensure that financial transactions are clear and trustworthy.
7. Quality of life
For those who do choose to spend time there, Dubai offers exceptional safety, modern amenities, and a multicultural environment.
UAE law now permits foreign nationals, including those without a residency visa, to fully own companies in Free Zones without the need for a local partner, which means:
However, you’ll still need to comply with local regulations and maintain proper substance if you want to benefit from tax advantages.
Owning or registering a Free Zone company does not require a UAE residence visa. Many overseas entrepreneurs start with a zero-visa package, obtain their trade licence, and operate internationally right away.
However, obtaining a visa offers clear advantages: smoother corporate bank account opening, ability to sponsor employees, and flexibility to spend extended periods in Dubai.
To start a remote business, you must understand the business structures that work in the UAE, and which one fits you better:
This is best for non-residents with 100% foreign ownership. Free Zones are purpose-built business districts, each with independent regulations and specializations. There are 20+ Free Zones in Dubai. This is best for Consultancy, e-commerce, IT services, digital marketing, and international trading.
The advantages and limitations are:
Limitations of Free Zone:
Popular Free Zones for UK entrepreneurs:
Mainland companies can trade directly throughout the UAE but require physical office space and involve more complex setup procedures. These are better suited for businesses targeting local UAE consumers. Mainland companies can now have 100% foreign ownership in many sectors and can trade directly across the UAE market, giving you unrestricted access to local consumers and businesses.
Offshore companies are registered in designated jurisdictions like RAK (Ras Al Khaimah) or Jebel Ali. These entities cannot conduct business within the UAE but serve specific functions:
Owning or registering a free zone company does not require a UAE residence visa. Many overseas entrepreneurs start with a zero-visa package, obtain their trade licence, and operate internationally right away.
However, obtaining a visa offers clear advantages: smoother corporate bank account opening, ability to sponsor employees, and flexibility to spend extended periods in Dubai.
The steps for UK entrepreneurs to open a business in Dubai without living there:
1. Research market and business opportunities
Understand the Dubai market, industry regulations, and identify the most suitable business sector.
2. Select a business structure
Choose the suitable legal entity, i.e., Free Zone Company, LLC, or foreign company branch.
3. Identify a local sponsor or partner (if necessary)
If you are opening an LLC (Onshore Company), you will require a UAE national local sponsor. The sponsor should normally own 51% of the shares but not have anything to do with the day-to-day business.
4. Choose a business name and register it
Make sure the name follows the naming rules in Dubai and have it officially registered.
5. Get initial approvals and licenses
Apply for the initial approvals from the respective Dubai authorities.
These approvals are often received from:
6. Secure a business location
For an LLC or onshore company, you need a physical office space. However, Free Zone companies might not require a physical office initially, depending on their operations.
7. Prepare documentation
Collect necessary documents such as passport copies, proof of address, No objection certificate (NOC), and business plans.
Submit your application to the Dubai Department of Economic Development or the concerned Free Zone authority and provide the required documents.
9. Receive final licenses
Following approvals and payment, your business license will be released, and you will be sent an electronic copy instantly and a physical copy through courier.
10. Open a bank account
Once your business is licensed, you can open a corporate bank account in Dubai. A video verification or trip later may be requested from certain banks.
11. Compliance and ongoing requirements
Ensure ongoing compliance with Dubai’s business laws and tax regulations. Consulting with Stratrich Consulting can assist you in understanding and managing specific legal and procedural requirements.
This is where most non-residents face difficulties. Opening a corporate bank account as a non-resident can involve extra scrutiny because UAE banks have strict compliance rules, with many preferring at least one signatory to have a residence visa.
Apply to multiple banks: Submit applications to 3-4 banks simultaneously (Emirates NBD, Mashreq, RAKBANK, HSBC UAE)
Plan a Dubai visit: You should expect to attend an in-person meeting with your chosen bank. Schedule 3-5 days for bank appointments.
Prepare comprehensive documentation:
This is a critical and often misunderstood concept by non-residents. British entrepreneurs must understand the tax implications before opening a business in Dubai.
UK tax implications that you should not ignore
If you remain a UK tax resident, you’re taxed on worldwide income, including your Dubai company profits. Consider these:
Contact Stratrich’s advisors before setting up your structure. Whether you’re staying a UK tax resident or relocating, we’ll help you choose what’s best for you.
Office requirements: Free Zones make this easy with flexi-desk or virtual office packages, sufficient for licensing and mail handling without needing a permanent office lease.
Local representation:
Time zone: Dubai is 4 hours ahead (3 during British Summer Time) manageable with proper scheduling.
Technology: All standard business tools work perfectly (Xero, QuickBooks, Zoom, Slack, Google Workspace).
Starting a Dubai company without actually living there is entirely possible, and more people from the UK are pursuing this option. The UAE offers full foreign ownership, straightforward licensing, and support services, making it simple to establish a business remotely if you’re involved in consulting, e-commerce, technology, trading, or similar industries.
The key is to approach it as a serious business decision, rather than a quick tax fix. Treat it like any significant business move: plan ahead, keep expectations realistic about banking, seek proper advice from Stratrich’s expert, and ensure your business has real substance. Done correctly, UK entrepreneurs can establish a presence in Dubai while still calling the UK home.
The tax benefits are real, the market’s there, and though it takes some effort, plenty of British business owners have already made it work.
