Steps to Successfully Setting Up an Expat Business

Mike Meehan
Aug 30
4 min read

Updated: Nov 3

Starting a business abroad is both an exciting and transformative journey. For entrepreneurs and experienced investors relocating from high-tax countries, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands out as a prime destination — offering a tax-efficient, globally connected, and innovation-driven economy.

However, navigating the business setup process can be complex without proper guidance. This comprehensive guide by Expat Businesses Corporate Services Provider LLC outlines the key steps to establishing your business in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE, helping you achieve success with trust, transparency, and speed.

Understanding Expat Business Guidelines in the UAE

The UAE’s reputation as a global business hub is built on its 0% personal income tax, competitive corporate tax rates, and 100% foreign ownership in many free zones. These features make it ideal for expatriates seeking to optimize profits, reduce taxes, and expand internationally.

Before starting, it’s essential to understand the local business environment and regulatory requirements. Key considerations include:

Choosing the right business structure – From Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) to Free Zone Entities and Special Purpose Vehicles for crypto and Web3 ventures.
Selecting the appropriate license – Mainland licenses allow full operation across the UAE, while Free Zone licenses provide tax advantages and simpler regulations.
Visa and Residency Permits – Long-term options such as the Golden Visa offer stability for investors and their families.
Compliance and Taxation – Includes VAT registration, corporate tax filing, and accurate accounting.

Partnering with a corporate service provider like Expat Businesses simplifies every stage — ensuring full compliance, speed, and cost-efficient solutions without hidden fees.

Eye-level view of modern office building exterior in Dubai — Modern office building in Dubai business district

Step-by-Step Process for Setting Up Your Business

Establishing a company in the UAE involves several stages. Here’s how to move through them successfully:

1. Define Your Business Activity and Legal Structure

Your chosen business activity determines the right license and jurisdiction.

Mainland LLC – Ideal for businesses targeting the UAE’s local market.
Free Zone Company – Perfect for export-oriented ventures and investors seeking 100% ownership.

At Expat Businesses, we’ll guide you on the difference between LLC and Free Zone setups in the UAE, helping you select the most suitable structure for your goals.

2. Choose the Business Location

Location impacts your operational flexibility, ownership rights, and tax benefits.

Mainland allows broader local trade and government contracts.
Free Zones provide simplified regulations, tax advantages, and international reach.

Our experts help you select the ideal jurisdiction based on your industry — from crypto business hubs to commercial trading zones.

3. Register Your Company and Obtain Licenses

Once your structure and location are decided, we handle all registration requirements, including documentation, applications, and approvals.

Licenses include:

Trade License – For commercial or trading activities.
Professional License – For consultancy or service-based operations.
Industrial License – For manufacturing or production companies.

Our VIP concierge-style setup ensures your business registration is seamless, transparent, and efficient.

4. Open a Corporate Bank Account

Opening a UAE business bank account is essential for smooth transactions. However, due diligence and compliance checks can be time-consuming.

With our strong network of banking partners, we help you:

Prepare documentation correctly.
Schedule meetings with banks.
Secure approval faster

5. Set Up Accounting and Tax Compliance

Accurate financial reporting is critical for long-term success. We help ensure:

Corporate Tax and VAT compliance.
Proper bookkeeping and accounting software setup.
Regular financial reviews and reporting aligned with UAE standards.

Our expert accountants and tax consultants ensure your company remains fully compliant and audit-ready at all times.

6. Secure Visas and Residency Permits

Obtaining the right residency permits is part of your business setup. The Golden Visa allows investors and entrepreneurs to reside in Dubai for up to 10 years.

We manage the entire process — from investor and employment visas to family sponsorship — ensuring a smooth relocation for you and your dependents.

Close-up view of business documents and laptop on office desk — Business documents and laptop on office desk

Can a US Citizen or Other Foreign National Open a Business in the UAE?

Yes. The UAE welcomes global investors — including US citizens, UK nationals, and entrepreneurs from across Europe and Asia.

However, compliance with both UAE laws and your home country’s regulations is important. For instance:

Tax obligations: US citizens must still report global income under FATCA.
Banking requirements: Additional due diligence may be required.
Legal documentation: Business plans, funding proof, and identification must be verified.

Our consultants at Expat Businesses assist expatriates worldwide — ensuring their setup aligns with international and UAE requirements.

High angle view of UAE city skyline with skyscrapers — UAE city skyline with skyscrapers

Leveraging Corporate Services for a Seamless Setup

Partnering with Expat Businesses Corporate Services Provider LLC gives you access to a complete suite of business setup solutions tailored for expatriates:

Company Formation (Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore)
Accounting & Tax Consulting (Corporate Tax, VAT, and Financial Reporting)
Visa & Residency Processing (Golden Visa, Investor Visa, Employee Visa)
Bank Account Assistance (including guidance for crypto or digital businesses)
Special Licensing (Crypto and Web3 certification under VARA)

Our mission is to ensure that your business setup in the UAE is hassle-free, compliant, and faster than any other service provider — all with no hidden charges.

Maximising the Benefits of the UAE Business Environment

Dubai and the wider UAE provide unmatched advantages for expatriate entrepreneurs:

Tax Efficiency – 0% personal income tax and low corporate tax rates.
100% Ownership – Full control in Free Zone entities.
Strategic Access – Gateway to the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Cutting-edge Infrastructure – Smart offices, advanced tech parks, and global connectivity.
Ease of Doing Business – Streamlined processes and pro-investment policies.

To truly capitalise on these benefits, partnering with an experienced firm like Expat Businesses ensures you start strong and stay compliant.

Your Next Step Toward a Successful UAE Business

Setting up an expat business in the UAE is more than a registration process — it’s a gateway to financial freedom, global reach, and long-term residency.

At Expat Businesses, we deliver VIP-level corporate services built on trust, network, and speed. Whether you’re launching a crypto venture, forming an LLC, or seeking business setup guidance for expatriates, our experts are here to simplify your journey from start to success.