Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! A retired foreigner can apply for a UAE Golden Visa. The eligibility criteria for the Golden Visa may vary based on the investor’s nationality and the type of investment they make. So, it’s always best to check with the relevant authorities to confirm if you are eligible.

In most cases, the cost to start your business should be roughly AED 5,000, depending on your company size, your chosen license, and any other applicable fees.

There are no specific minimum share requirements to start a business in the TwoFour54 Free Zone.

Yes, you can set up a branch office in the TwoFour54 Free Zone. Branches of existing companies can expand their operations into the free zone, operating as extensions of the parent company and conducting business under its name.

The timeframe to start a business in the TwoFour54 Free Zone typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months, depending on factors such as documentation, approvals, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

The renewal cost of a Media Zone license in TwoFour54 Free Zone varies depending on factors such as the type of license and any additional services or facilities required. It's advisable to contact TwoFour54 authorities or check their website for updated renewal fee information.

You can expect the cost in Sharjah Publishing City to be roughly AED 15,000, depending on the business license type.

Yes, you can establish a branch company in Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone!

Operating in the SPCFZ offers several benefits, including 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate and income tax, access to state-of-the-art publishing facilities, no minimum capital requirements, and streamlined business setup processes.

To open a bank account in Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone, you'll need to choose a bank that operates within the Free Zone and submit the required documentation, including your business license, passport copies, proof of address, and any additional documents requested by the bank.

No! Businesses forming in the Masdar City Free Zone are allowed complete company ownership, with no need for local sponsorships.

In most cases, Licenses in the Masdar City Free Zone are issued within five days of your application.

It is currently impossible to transfer your company from Masdar City Free Zone to another jurisdiction. Existing licenses will need to be cancelled, and a new license in the new Free Zone must be acquired.

In most cases, you can expect the cost of company formation to be around AED 15,000, depending on the size of your business and the office spaces you choose. Generally, costs include registration fees, license fees, and office space rent.

The timeframe for setting up a company in DAFZA typically ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, subject to the completion of all necessary documentation, approvals, and payment of fees. Factors such as the complexity of your business structure and any additional approvals required can influence the setup duration.

Yes, companies registered in DAFZA have the flexibility to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Resident visas in Dubai South Free Zone typically have a validity of three years. However, renewal options are available to extend your visa as needed.

In most cases, you can expect the cost of setting up a business in the DSFZ to be between AED 30,000 and AED 50,000, depending on the license type, office spaces needed, and visa fees.

The time required to liquidate a business in Dubai South Free Zone typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months, depending on various factors such as compliance with regulatory requirements, settling of outstanding liabilities, and completion of necessary paperwork.

One of the key visa benefits of obtaining a professional license in the Dubai South Free Zone is that it allows individuals to sponsor their own residency visa.

Yes, when applying for a professional license in the Dubai South Free Zone, you are required to have a physical office space within the free zone. This ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and provides a professional business environment for your operations.

Businesses operating in the Meydan free zone are subject to laws set forth by the companies and licensing regulation 2022. These laws and regulations may vary based on the particular jurisdiction of the Free Zone.

For foreign investors, you’ll need a copy of your passport and visa, as well as several other documents which are personal profile, address proof, bank statement etc.

Companies enjoy a large number of benefits under the Meydan free zone. Unlike mainland and offshore business setups, these companies retain 100% of their profits, enjoy low tax responsibilities, and have the ability to access state-of-the-art office facilities. Meydan free zone companies can lease/rent physical office space outside the free zone. Meydan free zone is the only free zone in Dubai which allows the business to take the office space in the mainland.

There are several fees involved in the formation of the Meydan Free Zone Company. These include an application fee, registration fee, licensing fee, establishment card fee, and a refundable deposit. The pricing for these fees is noted in the previous sections of this page.

Meydan free zone companies are eligible for any number of visas depending on the business requirements. A company can opt for a 0 visa package to any number.

In the Dubai mainland, you are allowed to have up to ten activities, while in Dubai free zones, you are allowed only three business activities under one license.

An LLC, which stands for Limited Liability Company, is the most common form of business in the UAE. An LLC can be created by a minimum of one shareholders and a maximum of 50 shareholders.

You can get resident visa in Dubai if an employer provides sponsorship. You can also get a golden visa in Dubai by buying property.

Here are some important documents needed to start a business in Dubai:

• Trade Names
• Passport Copies Of The Shareholder(S)
• Resident Proof Of Shares Shareholders
• Personal Profile Of Shareholder(S)
• 6 Months Bank Statement Of Shareholder(S)
• Proposed Companies Trade Names
• KYC Application Which Will Be Provided By MSZ

• For a Mainland business, the cost to set up a business is usually high. Mainland company allows you to conduct business without limitations. A Mainland company can conduct business without any limitation in the local market.

• In a Free Zone, setting up a business is usually cheaper than on the Mainland. Free Zone companies are meant to do business within the Free Zone, and they can conduct business internationally; the exception is the local UAE market.

• The cheapest option is to setup a business in the Offshore of Dubai. Full ownership is granted only if you have a business outside the UAE. Since there is no need for an office space, a visa is not granted.

No! You will always maintain 100% control of your company and its decisions. The only services an accounting firm provides are relevant data and information that may help you make more informed decisions. Using these services, you’ll have more control over your business and the direction in which it’s headed.

Yes! Accounting services work well for businesses of all shapes and sizes. With the advancements in cloud software, outsourcing is available for any business type!

There are a ton of benefits to hiring professional accounting help, including:

Cost efficiency : Businesses using these services can significantly reduce overhead costs. Outsourced accounting will almost always be more cost-effective compared to in-house accounting departments. Accuracy : By outsourcing this work, you can ensure that the information gained is accurate and timely.

Focus on Core Issues : Outsourced accounting companies will be far more experienced in handling the constantly evolving UAE laws, saving you tons of money in fees and penalties. By securing these services, you’ll be free to handle large scope business plans instead of worrying about the minutiae.

Outsourcing services has become an extremely popular practice in the business world, and accounting is no exception! By hiring outsourced accounting firms, you won’t have to deal with the day-to-day burdens of maintaining finances and will be able to concentrate on larger company plans.

Maintaining books of accounts is a legal requirement of all businesses operating in the UAE. Additionally, keeping a close eye on your books will allow a company to maintain clear finances, qualify for important loans, and be flexible enough to take advantage of potential business possibilities.

Yes! As per the UAE Commercial Companies Law, Federal Law No 2 of 2015, every company is required to maintain proper accounts and appoint a registered auditor to oversee the business’ accounts.

Securing an office space in a Dubai business center can provide wide-ranging benefits for your business including:

A) Establish Market Presence: Establishing a market presence in Dubai can lend credibility and professionalism to your business. Having physical office space is one way to achieve this. It can also provide an ideal environment for hosting official meetings, presentations, and negotiations.

B) Encourage On-Site Operations: Certain roles, such as IT support, require a dedicated workspace. A business center can offer a suitable environment for such staff members to perform their duties.

C) In-Person Client Interaction: Having an office space also allows for in-person client interaction, which can foster stronger relationships and improve overall business. Clients can connect with you in a tangible location, making it easier to build trust and rapport.

D) Compliance and License Requirements: Depending on your business activity and license, maintaining a specific minimum office space size may be mandatory to ensure compliance with regulatory norms.

The cost to set up a company in Dubai mainland varies depending on the type of business and the service you require. However, in most cases, setting up a business in Dubai mainland costs between AED 12,500 to AED 30,000.

A Dubai mainland license is a trade license issued by Dubai's Department of Economic Development (DED). The business entities that come under this are commercial, professional, and sole establishments. It allows businesses to operate legally in Dubai with maximum freedom.

For a product to be valid, it must comply with the recommended health and safety specifications highlighted in CPSS. If your product is rejected, the product won’t be allowed to be distributed in the local market. If the product passes registration, then the registration will be valid for 5 years and will have to be renewed.

Expert business consultants like MSZ Consultancy can provide valuable guidance and assistance in setting up an offshore company. Some key benefits of working with us include in-depth knowledge of the legal and regulatory framework for offshore company formation, our ability to identify and mitigate potential risks, and experience in navigating the complex processes involved in company registration and compliance. We can also help businesses identify the most suitable offshore jurisdictions based on their needs and goals and provide ongoing support and advice to ensure the success of the offshore venture.

Yes, you can! Offshore companies in the UAE permit foreign investors to own and manage a business without needing a physical presence in the country. These companies provide several financial and tax advantages, such as 100% foreign ownership, exemption from corporate income tax, no limitations on currency exchange, and more.

The procedure for setting up a business in a Dubai Free Zone is straightforward. Start by deciding what type of company you want to form and which Free Zone you want to use as your home base. Then, you’ll need to choose a trade name, register your business, obtain a trade license, and secure office space.

No. And yes. Free Zones are economic regions set up to foster more international business within the UAE. As such, operating in the Mainland isn’t directly possible. However, Free Zone companies can connect with a DED-licensed distributor and acquire special documentation from the Dubai DED to conduct business in the region.

Free Zone visas are relatively easy to obtain. If you’re an entrepreneur looking to register your company in a Dubai Free Zone, you can get an investor or employment visa without much hassle. Your dependents can then apply for a residence visa once you obtain an investor visa or employment visa. These visas are typically valid for three years.

Here are the key steps to set up a business in Dubai:

• Choose a business name or trade name
• Choose a legal structure
• Apply for a business license
• Choose an office space
• Get pre-approvals, register your business, and get your license

Key steps to start a business are as follows:

• Select a business activity and jurisdiction
• Decide the company structure
• Choose a company name
• Apply for a trade license
• Get external approval and register your company
• Rent an office and start your business

Yes. The UAE mandates that all companies maintain proper accounting books regardless of size or industry. The Companies Law and relevant regulatory bodies require businesses to keep accurate and up-to-date financial records.

The primary purpose of maintaining books and accounts in the UAE is legal and tax compliance, financial transparency, and accurate tracking of financial transactions.

Outsourcing your accounting and bookkeeping activities can help promote cost efficiency, ensure scalability, and help you focus on the core tenets of your business.

The biggest benefits of hiring a professional accounting firm include:

• Accuracy and compliance
• Timeliness
• Risk mitigation
• Valuable insight into the financial health of the company

Absolutely. In fact, outsourcing is particularly beneficial for small businesses. It allows them to access professional expertise without the burden of maintaining an in-house team.

No, outsourcing does not equate to loss of control. On the contrary, it provides business owners with more control and visibility. They can focus on strategic aspects of their business, while the outsourced professionals handle the day-to-day financial tasks.

This really depends on the kind of business you have and how large it is. However, if you are setting up a business in Dubai and you’re new to the UAE and unsure of the laws that are required in the region, then it’s recommended for you to outsource PRO services in Dubai to help you through the legal processes.

PRO stands for Public Relations Officer. This is an expert that helps you with professional document clearing services for government documents and paperwork related to business in the UAE. Here are the services offered by our PRO:

• Company and branch formation
• Resident and employee visa
• Labor and immigration cards
• Emirate ID card
• Family visas
• Visa cancellations
• Document attestation
• Mail collection
• Passport clearance
• Trademark and Copyright
• Approval and renewal of trade license
• Regulatory approvals and NOC letters
• Notarization of legal documents
• Offshore & security passes (CICPA)
• Annual license renewals and updates
• Opening a corporate bank account

The Mainland is on land in one of the UAE cities. You will have to have a physical office space for a Mainland business. On the Mainland, you can do business in the local market and outside the UAE without any restrictions.

In the UAE Free Zone, you can’t do business outside its area. A Free Zone business can be run with or without a physical office. In an Offshore company, entrepreneurs get full ownership of the company. A physical office is prohibited, and you're permitted to do business outside the emirates.

If you're on the hunt for a business center in the UAE, keep these factors in mind:

A) Location: The UAE's prime location makes it an ideal hub for businesses looking to connect with international markets in South Asia, Asia Pacific, India, and China. Opt for a center that's strategically located near transportation hubs for easy accessibility and a strong brand image.

B) Amenities: To boost your productivity, choose a business center that offers modern tools and amenities such as high-speed WiFi, meeting rooms, reception areas, projectors, and more.

C) Affordability: If you're a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME), consider flexi-desks or co-working spaces for cost-effectiveness and networking opportunities. These options can help you save money while still getting access to all the necessary amenities and a professional work environment.

Dubai's business centers provide a range of cost-effective options that can help you save money and streamline your operations. With flexible space choices, you can find the best fit for your business needs while enjoying speedy convenience and a comfortable work environment.

To register your online business, you must first decide on a legal structure. Then, you will need to choose a location and a name for your company. Next, you’ll want to apply for a license and an initial approval certificate. After you draft a Memorandum of Association (MOA), you’ll have to get the final approval of your license. Then, you’ll have to ensure you have completed all your area's import/export requirements. The last step will be to open a corporate bank account.

Dubai offshore is an attractive destination for international businesses looking for a tax-efficient company setup. The UAE offers tax exemptions on value-added tax, capital gain tax, and withholding tax for offshore companies. This makes Dubai offshore a popular choice for many businesses seeking to reduce their tax burden and increase their profitability.

In Dubai, offshore companies can be formed as Limited Liability Companies (LLC), limited companies, or limited partnerships.

That, perhaps, isn't the best question to ask. A better question is, which Free Zone offers the best opportunities for my business most cost-effectively? The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) in Dubai is a good option. It offers a range of low-cost company setup packages and is considered one of the most cost-effective Free Zones for establishing a business in Dubai.

To determine if you are eligible for a Golden Visa in the UAE, you will need to complete an eligibility test. This test typically involves a review of your financial status, personal background, and other relevant factors. You can also consult a professional consultancy firm, like MSZ Consultancy, which specializes in Golden Visas, to help you determine your eligibility.

If you pass the UAE Golden Visa eligibility test, the following steps typically involve making the required investment, submitting all the necessary documentation, and undergoing a background check. Once all the necessary criteria have been met, you can obtain your Golden Visa.

The validity of the Golden Visa in the UAE is typically determined by the type of investment made and the investor's circumstances. The visa is usually valid for three years and may be renewed regularly. It’s crucial to check with the relevant authorities to determine the exact validity of your Golden Visa.

Individuals who import or locally manufacture products, or have products imported or manufactured on their behalf need to have their products registered. This includes all cosmetic products, food products, and health supplements. You must have a valid trade or industrial license in the UAE with a relevant activity.

The certificate must be from the country of origin and issued by the health authorities or recognized bodies from the country of origin. The HC (Health certificate) should be current at the time of submission, and a request may be made for the original to be seen. A Certificate of Health is evidence to certify that the product is safe for human use. This certificate has to be approved by the UAE Embassy.

A Free Sale Certificate is also known as a “Certificate of Export” or “Certificate to Foreign Governments.” The certificate is issued by a national regulatory authority of an exporting country. The document indicates that the product is freely sold and manufactured in the country that seeks to export the product. The certificate has to be approved by the UAE Embassy.

The process to start a mainland business in Dubai includes:

• Decide the type of business activity
• Select the trade name
• Take the initial approvals
• Draft an MOA or LSA agreement
• Get the tenancy contract
• Take the additional approvals
• Submit documents & pay the fees

You can start a Retail Business in Dubai. However, it will depend on the type of products you are planning to sell. With an investment of 50,000 AED, you can open a brick-and-mortar retail business or online retail store. You could also use this startup money to start a small service provider business, as there are many different types of services that other businesses require.

Here are the most profitable business ideas in Dubai, UAE:

• E-commerce and Online Business
• Tourism and Hospitality
• Fintech and Digital Payments
• Real Estate Development
• Health and Wellness
• Education
• Event Management

If you are planning to setup a business in Dubai, here are some of the business ideas for your consideration:

• Real Estate Agency
• Consultancy Service
• Beauty Salon
• Construction Sector
• E-Commerce Solutions
• Travel and Tourism
• Health Sector

The cost of setting up a business in Dubai will largely depend on the type of company you have and the location in Dubai you choose to operate.

First, you will have to choose a business name and the legal structure for your company. Then, you’ll have to decide on the business activities that will be included in the business license. Then, you’ll have to complete and submit the permit for approval.

Retail is one of the most popular and established businesses to set up in Dubai. Financial services, tourism, schooling, and healthcare are also considered one of the best businesses to start in Dubai.