Frequently Asked Questions About Your Move to Dubai
We have compiled our clients’ most common questions in one place. This guide is designed to give you clear and direct answers to help you plan your move with complete confidence. If your question isn’t here, don’t hesitate to contact us.
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About Tax Residency and Taxation 💰
Will I really pay no tax on my personal income in Dubai?
That’s correct. The UAE has no personal income tax. This applies to salaries, freelance income, dividends, and capital gains. Your personal income is 100% tax-free.
What is the new corporate tax?
It is a 9% tax on a company’s net profits that exceed AED 375,000 annually. Profits below this threshold are subject to a 0% rate. Companies in Free Zones that operate internationally can continue to benefit from a 0% rate under certain conditions.
How much time must I spend in Dubai to be considered a tax resident?
UAE regulations consider a person a tax resident if they spend more than 183 days a year in the country, or 90 days if they meet additional requirements such as having a residence visa and a home. The goal is to prove that your center of vital interests is in Dubai.
How do I prove my tax residency to my home country?
Once you meet the requirements, you can apply for a Tax Residency Certificate from the UAE’s Federal Tax Authority. This official document, along with your tax deregistration in your home country, is the definitive proof of your tax status.
About Company Formation and Visas 🛂
Is it complicated to set up a company as a foreigner?
Not with the right advice. The process in the Free Zones is highly optimized for foreigners, allowing 100% ownership and repatriation of profits. We handle all the paperwork to make it a quick and simple process for you.
How long does the process of setting up the company and getting the visa take?
With our streamlined process, the trade license can be ready in a few days. The entire process to get the residence visa stamped in your passport typically takes between 3 and 4 weeks.
Can I bring my family with my investor visa?
Yes. Once your residence visa is approved, you can act as a sponsor to apply for residence visas for your spouse and children. It is a standard process where we assist you from start to finish.
Is it easy to open a corporate bank account in Dubai?
The process of opening bank accounts in the UAE has become stricter. Banks conduct a thorough due diligence process. However, with the correct documentation and a good presentation of your business model, it is a feasible process. Having a local partner to guide you is a crucial advantage.
About Life in Dubai: Costs and Practical Aspects 🏠
How much money do I need to live comfortably in Dubai?
It’s subjective, but a good benchmark for a single person with a comfortable lifestyle would be a monthly budget of AED 12,000-15,000. For a family of four, this range could increase to AED 25,000-40,000, mainly due to housing and education costs.
Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?
Yes. Foreigners can buy property on a freehold basis in specific designated areas, which include the most popular zones like Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Downtown, and many others. Buying a property worth over AED 2 million can grant you access to a Golden Visa.
Is medical insurance mandatory?
Yes, it is an indispensable legal requirement. All Dubai residents must have at least a basic medical insurance plan. Your residence visa cannot be processed without a valid insurance policy.
What is the main language for business and social life?
Arabic is the official language, but English is the de facto language for business, leisure, and daily life. With a good command of English, you can operate and live in Dubai without any difficulty.