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Setting up a Company in Dubai from the UK
- aafra9
- Jun 6
- 6 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Introduction
Dubai has become one of the world’s top destinations for starting a business. The main attraction is zero personal income tax. Combined with modern infrastructure and a rapidly growing market, Dubai continues to captivate entrepreneurs from all over the world — including the UK.
At PKPI, we help UK-based professionals and business owners navigate this opportunity with expert advice on setup, tax planning, and compliance.
Dubai is an ideal place to launch a business. It offers low taxes, strong support for entrepreneurs, and direct access to international markets.
As part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a country known for its business-friendly regulations and global connectivity, Dubai offers the perfect environment for growth — and with PKPI by your side, the process becomes even simpler and more strategic.
Here’s why many U.K citizens love doing business there:
No personal income tax
100% foreign ownership in many areas
Fast-growing economy
Safe and stable environment
Global hub—great location for trade and travel
The UAE Government welcomes business owners from all over the world. which is why many UK citizens choose to start companies there. To open a business in Dubai, you’ll need to get a residence visa, a trade license, and register your business with the right government offices based on what your business does.
What should you do before setting up a business in Dubai from the Uk?
Before Setting up a Comapany in Dubai from the UK, there are a few important things you should do. First, research the market to see if people need or want the product or service you are planning to offer. Dubai has many different industries, like tourism, finance, and technology, so it’s good to know where your business fits best.
Next, choose the right legal structure for your business. You can start as a partnership or set up a limited liability company (LLC). Each option has its pros and cons, depending on what you want for your business.
Finally, look at the costs. Think about how much you’ll need to pay rent, bills, and employee salaries. Planning your budget early will help your business run smoothly.
How to Set Up a Comapny in Dubai from the UK?
If you’re in the UK and want to start a business in Dubai, The process typically includes choosing the right business activity, selecting a jurisdiction (Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore), reserving a company name, obtaining initial approvals, and applying for a trade license. Our team at PKPI. also supports clients with visa applications, bank account setup, and ongoing accounting needs—ensuring full compliance with UAE laws while you focus on growing your business.
At PKPI. we assist UK entrepreneurs in setting up their businesses in Dubai by handling all the paperwork and legal steps on their behalf. Starting a business in the UAE can be exciting, but it’s important to follow the right steps.
A step-by-step guide for you to understand how to commence
1. Choose What Your Business Will Do
Decide what kind of work your business will do. Will you sell your products? or Offer services? The government needs to know your business activity to give you the right license
2. Pick Where You Will Set Up
Dubai has three main areas for businesses:
Mainland – You can do business across the UAE.
Free Zone – You can own 100% of your company and enjoy tax benefits.
Offshore – Good for international business but not for local trade.
Each area has different rules and costs.
Mainland Company
You can trade anywhere in the UAE.
You may need a local service agent for certain businesses.
Great if you want a physical shop, office, or work with the government.
Free Zone Company
100% owned by you—no local partners needed.
Limited to doing business inside the free zone or overseas.
Easy setup and fast approvals.
Offshore Company
holding assets or international trade.
It cannot operate or do business within the UAE mainland.
3. Decide Your Business Type
You’ll need to pick a business structure, like:
A one-person company
A Limited Liability Company (LLC)
A branch of a foreign company
The type you choose will affect how your business runs.
4. Pick a Business Name
Choose a name that matches your business. Avoid names that are offensive. The name must be approved by the government.
5. Get First Approvals
You’ll need to get permission to start your business. This shows that your business idea is allowed in Dubai.
6. Find an Office
Most businesses in Dubai need a physical location. You can rent a small office or use a shared workspace, especially in Free Zones.
7. Prepare and Submit Documents
You’ll need to send in:
Passport copies
Business plan (for some types of businesses)
A form showing your company details
8. Apply for a Trade License
This is the official document that lets you run your business. It will be based on your chosen activity (like trading, services, or industry).
9. Open a Business Bank Account
After getting your license, you can open a company bank account in the UAE.
10. Apply for Visas
You can apply for a visa for yourself and your employees. If needed, you can also sponsor visas for your family.
How PKPI Can Help You Set Up a Business in Dubai?
Setting up a Company in Dubai from the UK can be tricky, especially if you don’t know where to start. That’s where PKPI can help. We make the process simple by guiding you step by step. To help you choose the right type of business, fill out the paperwork, and get your trade license. We will help with your visa and setting up a business bank account from UK for you
PKPI makes sure everything is done the right way, so you don’t have to worry about missing any important steps. Our team also offers accounting and tax support, helping your business stay on track after it’s up and running.
FAQs
1. Do I need to live in Dubai to run my business?
No, you don't have to live there. You can own and manage your Dubai business from another country. But if you want to live in Dubai, your company can help you get a visa. You can also hire a local manager to handle things day-to-day.
2. Do I need a business bank account in Dubai?
Yes, It's a rule for companies registered in Dubai (whether in the Mainland or a Free Zone). You need a special business account with a bank in the UAE. You can't just use your personal account or an account from another country for your company's money.
3. What's the difference between a Trade License, Business License, and Commercial License?
Business License: This is the biggest term. It's the main permission slip from the government saying you can run any type of business in Dubai.
Trade License / Commercial License: These usually mean the same thing. They are a specific type of Business License for companies that buy and sell physical goods (like clothes, electronics, cars).
Other Types: There are also licenses for services (like consulting or haircuts) called Professional Licenses, and for making things called Industrial Licenses.
4. How much money does it cost to start a business in Dubai?
It really depends! Costs change based on:
Where you set up (Mainland city vs. a special Free Zone area).
What kind of business do you have (selling goods, services, etc.).
If you need office space (like an actual office or just a virtual address).
Government fees, visa costs, and helpers you might hire.
Starting costs can range from around AED 15,000 to AED 50,000 or much more for a small or medium business, not counting monthly rent.
5. What's the best way to set up my company in Dubai?
The best choice depends on what your business does and who owns it:
Mainland LLC: Good for trading anywhere in the UAE. Usually needs a local UAE partner (they own 51%).
Free Zone Company: Allows 100% foreign ownership. Great for specific industries (tech and media). Easier to get visas. Can trade internationally freely but needs extra steps to sell within the UAE.
Branch Office: For companies already existing outside Dubai to open a location here.
Ready to launch your business in Dubai? Let PKPI. guide you every step of the way
simple, smart, and stress-free.
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