Over the past decades, the United Arab Emirates (further referred to as the UAE) has transformed itself from a resource-dependent nation into a global business hub with the aura of economic prosperity and unprecedented tax freedom that opens many doors to domestic and international entrepreneurs alike. With the most advanced and developed infrastructure in the region, large-scale strategic events like Dubai Expo 2020 and COP28, and visionary long-term strategies, the country is currently shifting from an oil-driven economy to a more diversified model, with a focus on business, technology, green energy, and tourism.

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On an individual level, urban megahubs like Abu Dhabi and Dubai attract internationals with a lifestyle marked by safety, modern comforts, career opportunities, and a welcoming environment for English-speaking professionals.

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In this guide, we will explore the key aspects of relocating to the UAE in 2025, with a particular focus on remote-first companies and globally mobile employed or self-employed professionals seeking opportunities. We will cover the legal and tax landscape, in-demand industries, various visa paths, as well as benefits and potential challenges of moving teams or business operations to the UAE. Additionally, we will highlight the types of third-party support that can optimize the relocation process time- and resource-wise.

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💡Do you want to compare the UAE to popular European destinations and make an informed decision? Check out these detailed and up-to-date relocation guides to Portugal and Spain, Bulgaria and Romania, Poland, and the Czech Republic.

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What is the business landscape like in the UAE for startups and remote companies?

As of 2025, the business scene in the UAE is extremely open to international entrepreneurs. Recent legal reforms now allow 100% foreign ownership in most onshore companies​, and over 40 free zones offer full foreign ownership plus generous incentives such as renewable tax holidays of 15 to 50 years, no restrictions on capital and profit repatriation, and more. This makes launching ventures, especially in finance and tech, very attractive.

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Growing industries include technology and fintech, financial services, green energy, and digital innovation. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in economic diversification and are a major focus of national development strategies, especially under initiatives like the UAE Vision 2030 and Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda. ‍‍

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‍The UAE government heavily incentivizes startups and foreign investment. SMEs comprise over 94% of all companies operating within the country, and remote companies relocating talent may benefit from policies like 0% corporate tax for qualifying small businesses, startup incubators, and flexible licensing zones.

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Since the UAE is aggressively building a tech economy, industries like AI, blockchain, IoT, cloud computing, and fintech are prioritized, with initiatives like Smart Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s tech funds specifically targeted at tech startups.

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The country has committed to net-zero by 2050 and already hosts some of the world’s largest renewable projects. As a result, clean-tech firms and engineers are in demand for solar, EVs, and sustainability projects in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

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How attractive is the tax system in the UAE?

The UAE’s tax regime is extremely friendly for individuals and businesses alike: there is no personal income tax or withholding tax on salaries. Corporate taxation was introduced in 2023, but at a low effective rate: 0% on the first AED 375,000 of profit and 9% on further profit. In practice, many small businesses and startups fall under the AED 375,000 exemption. There are also no capital gains taxes, no wealth tax, and no foreign exchange controls. In addition, a 5% VAT applies broadly to consumer goods and services. Overall, the UAE’s tax system makes it very cost-effective to live and do business here​.

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💡Please note that expats may still owe taxes on foreign income to their home countries.

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What types of visas are available for foreign entrepreneurs in the UAE?

Investors, startup founders, business owners, scientists, and professionals with outstanding qualifications can take advantage of the UAE’s Golden Visa – a long-term residence permit valid for 5 or 10 years with the possibility of renewal. Holders of the Golden Visa are exempt from the local sponsorship requirements and can stay abroad longer than 6 months while preserving their residency. To meet the eligibility criteria, applicants must provide a business track record, proof of qualifications and related experience, or an innovative startup concept, depending on the specific case.

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Another available type is the UAE’s Green Visa – a self-sponsored visa for freelancers and skilled workers that is valid for 5 years with the possibility of renewal. To qualify for the Green Visa as a freelancer or self-employed individual, the applicant needs to hold a local freelance permit and meet a range of qualifications and income criteria. Skilled employees earning not less than AED 15,000/month and holding a relevant degree also apply for the Green Visa independently.

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What types of visas are available for employed and self-employed workers? Can expats work remotely from the UAE?

For professionals hired by a UAE company or free-zone entity, the Standard Work Visa is optimal. This type of visa is valid for 2-3 years, and the application process and related fees are covered by the employer.

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Several free zones, such as Dubai Creative Cluster, Fujairah Free Zone, and more, issue the Freelance Visa for professionals in select fields such as media, IT, and design. Holders of the Freelance Visa can legally contract with multiple clients.

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And yes, it is possible to work remotely from the UAE in 2025, whether you are a remote employee or a self-employed professional/freelancer. The country has introduced the Remote Work Visa (Digital Nomad Visa) during the pandemic, which is valid for 1 year with the possibility of renewal and offers access to local bank accounts and telecom services. The eligibility criteria typically include proof of overseas employment, an income above USD 3500/month, and health insurance.

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Dubai offers a special type of permit under the Virtual Working Programme to remote workers and company owners. The permit is valid for 1 year with the possibility of renewal. To meet the eligibility criteria, an individual must provide proof of employment or company ownership and have an income above USD 5000/month.

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What are the possible challenges of relocation to the UAE, and where to get support?

While the UAE is extremely welcoming to foreign talent and investment, a few challenges may occur during work- or business-related relocation. Setting up a company or obtaining permits is time-consuming: for example, it takes 2-3 months to establish a legal entity and secure a trade license. Each emirate and free zone has its own rules, with lots of paperwork attached.

Employed individuals are required to have health insurance. Companies that intend to relocate their teams to the UAE must plan for this mandatory benefit and comply with evolving coverage rules.

Employment contracts in the UAE are governed by the country’s labour law and specific emirate regulations. Issues like end-of-service gratuity, leave entitlements, and termination rules differ from many Western systems. It is crucial to stay compliant with these regulations.

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To overcome these and other challenges and start operating fast without opening a local entity, many companies turn to third-party support to handle regulatory compliance, visa applications, and payroll. 

The optimal solution varies depending on your unique situation. As an employment and immigration services provider, we recommend using the EOR (Employer of Record) service. This allows us to hire and manage teams in the UAE on your behalf without the need to establish an entity. For employees and remote workers, our Umbrella Company service works best: we handle your employment, allowing you to live and pay taxes locally while working for a foreign employer.

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Our team has an in-depth understanding of the local landscape. To get more detailed information, book a meeting with our expert or submit a request form!