Business Set Up in the UAE

Establishing your business in the UAE: the advantages of Free Zones and Mainland

The United Arab Emirates is one of the countries that offer the most favorable conditions for starting a business. As a result, a lot of business owners nowadays think that the UAE is a place where they can move their entire family, start a company, or manage their own enterprise. Companies aiming to broaden their worldwide reach may find it strategically advantageous to establish a business in the United Arab Emirates. When it comes to setting up operations, the UAE provides two primary alternatives for setting up operations: the mainland and free zones. Let's examine the benefits of both approaches that are worth taking into account.

Pros and cons of starting a business in the UAE

There are more benefits than drawbacks to establishing a business in the United Arab Emirates. Given its many benefits for investors and business owners, it should come as no surprise that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the business locations with the fastest rate of growth in the world. The benefits and drawbacks of launching a business in the UAE should be carefully considered.
UAE BUSINESS ADVANTAGE
Around 80% of Fortune 500 companies, including the top 10, have a presence in the UAE.

Benefits of having a company in the UAE

On the pro side, the UAE has a booming economy, extremely low taxes (5% VAT & 9% corporate tax for some enterprises), little bureaucracy, and a business-friendly environment. It is a perfect hub for international trade & commerce due to its advantageous position, modern ports' infrastructure, and easy access to markets all over the world. Aside from this, living in the United Arab Emirates offers a high standard of living because of its world-class facilities, multicultural population, and safe and stable political environment.
DID YOU KNOW?
You can bid on government contracts and projects with a mainland license.

Drawbacks of having a company in the UAE

However, starting a business in the UAE also has some potential drawbacks. The cost of living, particularly in major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, can be relatively high. Both cities hit the top charts among the most expensive places for life. Additionally, the legal and regulatory framework may present some challenges for newcomers. The UAE's cultural and religious norms must be respected, which may require adjustments for some entrepreneurs.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision to start a business in the UAE will depend on your specific goals, industry, and risk tolerance. By carefully evaluating the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business objectives and maximizes your chances of success in this dynamic and rapidly-evolving market.