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AE · Residence through Business Setup

Dubai / UAE
Residence through Business Setup

Eligibility, capital thresholds and visa duration depend on the legal route, emirate and free zone or mainland setup.

Pathfinder
Investor Visa
StructureFree Zone / Mainland
Processing2–4 Weeks
Income Tax0%
Validity2–3 Years
Overview

Why UAE Residence through Business Setup?

The UAE Investor Visa targets entrepreneurs and investors who establish a company in Dubai or invest in existing businesses. It offers a tax-free environment with world-class infrastructure.

The simplest route is establishing a free zone company, which automatically includes an investor visa. Strasia Group handles the entire formation and visa application.

Advantages

0% income tax
0–9% corporate tax
Family reunion possible
100% foreign ownership in free zones
Access to Emirates ID
Strategic location between Europe and Asia

Process

01

Consultation & Free Zone Selection

1–3 Days

Selection of the optimal free zone for your business.

02

Company Formation

1–2 Weeks

Registration of your company in the selected free zone.

03

Visa Application

1 Week

Application for investor visa through the free zone.

04

Medical & Emirates ID

1–2 Weeks

Medical examination and Emirates ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which free zone is best?
That depends on your industry. Popular options include DMCC (trading), DIFC (finance), Dubai Silicon Oasis (tech), and IFZA (general).
Can I also invest in the mainland?
Yes, since 2020, 100% foreign ownership is also possible in the mainland for most industries.
What taxes will I pay in the UAE?
The UAE does not levy personal income tax. There is no capital gains tax and no inheritance tax. Since 2023, a 9% corporate tax applies to companies with profits above AED 375,000.
Can my family come along?
Yes, as an investor you can sponsor your spouse and children as dependants.
Can Strasia coordinate the entire process?
Yes, Strasia Group supports you from investment structuring through document preparation to submission and communication with UAE authorities.
What is life like in the UAE as an investor?
The UAE offers no income tax, no capital gains tax, and no inheritance tax. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are global investment hubs with excellent infrastructure and political stability.
What is the path to Permanent Residency?
The UAE Investor Visa is already a long-term residence right. The UAE Golden Visa (10 years) is the best path to permanent residence. Strasia can advise you on qualifying.

Ready for Your Visa?

Free initial consultation — 60 minutes, no obligation.

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Popular Free Zones

DMCC — Trading & Commodities
DIFC — Finance
IFZA — General & affordable
DSO — Technology

Business Setup Residence Routes Compared

Free Zone vs. Mainland vs. Golden Visa — key differences at a glance.

CriterionFree Zone SetupMainland SetupGolden Visa (Investor)
Residence VisaInvestor Visa (2–3 yrs)Investor Visa (2–3 yrs)10 years
Shareholder / PartnerYes, 100% foreign ownershipYes, 100% foreign ownership (since 2020)Not required
Market / ClientsPrimarily internationalLocal & internationalNo restriction
Family SponsorshipYes, as dependantsYes, as dependantsYes, included
Medical & Emirates IDRequiredRequiredRequired
RenewalWith active companyWith active companyAutomatic (10 yrs)
Difference from Golden VisaShorter term, lower entry costLocal market access, shorter termLonger term, higher requirements

Data as of April 2026. All information subject to change.

Contact

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Our team is available for all questions regarding company formation, accounting, compliance, and visa & migration. Leave your details and we will get back to you within 24 hours.

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