Everything You Need to Know About Setting Up a Business and Getting a Golden Visa in Dubai
Do you wish to operate a business in this fascinating, golden city of Dubai while living there? Well, you’re not alone. The Golden Visa Dubai Business Program entices investors along with entrepreneurs while business owners worldwide seek its acquisition because it delivers significant benefits.
Imagine securing 10 years of effortless residency in Dubai without the need for a local sponsor or business ownership restrictions. Sounds like a dream, right? Dubai makes this a reality through its Golden Visa program, offering individuals and investors a gateway to long-term stability, business growth, and a tax-free environment—all while enjoying world-class cosmopolitan living and stunning beachfront experiences.
For those seeking an alternative route, Citizenship by Investment in Dubai is also an emerging option, providing high-net-worth individuals with access to the UAE’s unparalleled benefits through strategic investments. Whether you’re aiming for permanent residency or exploring citizenship possibilities, understanding the investment requirements and eligibility criteria is crucial.
Let’s dive in!
What is the Golden Visa Dubai Business Program?
PC: Business Setup in UAE
Apart from its iconic skyscrapers and luxury automobiles and pristine beaches Dubai functions as an entrepreneurial power center which provides business-friendly entry to driven business founders. Long-term stay in this flourishing city can be achieved through participation in the Golden Visa program.
But what exactly is it? The Golden Visa provides five to ten years of residence to investors among various categories of applicants including entrepreneurs and skilled professionals and exceptional talents. This UAE visa provides investors with independence from local sponsorship obligations while offering secure conditions to develop their businesses.
How is the Golden Visa Different?
Here’s a quick comparison between a standard UAE business visa and the Golden Visa:
| Feature | Standard UAE Business Visa | Golden Visa Dubai Business |
| Visa Duration | 2-3 years (renewable) | 5 or 10 years (renewable) |
| Local Sponsor Required? | Yes | No |
| Full Business Ownership? | Sometimes | Yes |
| Family Sponsorship? | Limited | Yes, including spouse, children, and support staff |
| Path to Citizenship? | No | Possible in select cases |
As you can see, the Golden Visa is a game-changer. It’s designed for business owners and investors who want a stable, long-term future in Dubai without the usual visa headaches.
Now that you know what the Golden Visa Dubai Business program is, let’s look at who qualifies and what you need to get started.
Dubai Investor Visa Requirements – Who Qualifies?
So, who gets to enjoy all the perks of the Golden Visa Dubai Business program? Not everyone, of course. You need to meet certain investment and business criteria. The good news? The UAE has made the process flexible and accessible for serious investors and entrepreneurs.
Let’s break it down.
Who Can Apply for a Golden Visa as an Investor?
There are four main categories under which you can qualify for a Dubai Investor Golden Visa:
1. Investors in Companies (Business Owners & Entrepreneurs)
If you own a business in Dubai, you could qualify if:
✔ Your company is registered in the UAE.
✔ You have invested at least AED 2 million (~$545,000).
✔ Your business contributes to the UAE economy.
2. Real Estate Investors
Property investors can also apply if:
✔ They own property worth AED 2 million (~$545,000).
✔ The property is not mortgaged (or at least 50% paid off).
3. Investors in Startups
If you’re an entrepreneur launching a startup, you may qualify if:
✔ Your business is part of an approved UAE incubator.
✔ The startup is valued at least AED 500,000 (~$136,000).
✔ You have a strong business plan and future investment potential.
4. Investors in Public Investments
If you invest in UAE government-approved investment funds, you must:
✔ Deposit at least AED 2 million (~$545,000) in a UAE-approved investment fund.
✔ Keep the investment for at least two years.
Golden Visa Eligibility – Quick Summary
Here’s a simplified checklist of the requirements:
| Category | Minimum Investment Required | Other Conditions |
| Business Owners | AED 2M ($545K) | UAE-registered company |
| Real Estate Investors | AED 2M ($545K) | Property should be mostly paid off |
| Startup Founders | AED 500K ($136K) | Must be incubated in UAE |
| Public Investments | AED 2M ($545K) | Investment locked for 2 years |
What Documents Do You Need?
To apply, you’ll need:
📌 Valid passport
📌 Proof of investment (business license, property deed, or bank statements)
📌 Medical insurance
📌 Police clearance certificate
📌 NOC (No Objection Certificate) from a local sponsor (if applicable)
Pro Tip: The UAE government frequently updates visa rules, so always check with Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or a visa consultant for the latest information.
UAE Residency for Entrepreneurs – Why It’s a Game-Changer
Dubai isn’t just a business hub—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Getting UAE residency as an entrepreneur means you’re not just running a business in a tax-friendly environment, but you’re also setting up a long-term home in one of the world’s most futuristic cities.
So, what makes this so special? Let’s break it down.
Why Entrepreneurs Love the UAE Golden Visa
Here are some of the biggest reasons why business owners are jumping at the chance to get long-term residency in Dubai:
✔ No Personal Income Tax
You keep 100% of your earnings—no personal income tax, no capital gains tax. That’s already a huge win for entrepreneurs.
✔ 10-Year Residency Stability
Forget renewing your visa every two years. With the Golden Visa, you get a 10-year residency that’s renewable, so you can focus on growing your business.
✔ Full Business Ownership
Unlike before, where a local Emirati sponsor was required, Golden Visa holders can own 100% of their company in Dubai.
✔ Live, Work, and Travel Freely
You can:
– Live anywhere in the UAE without needing a local sponsor.
– Work and expand your business without additional permits.
– Travel in and out of the UAE freely without worrying about visa re-entries.
✔ Family Sponsorship
Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children, and even household staff like maids or drivers. Your family gets long-term stability, too.
✔ Access to Business-Friendly Policies
Dubai encourages startups, entrepreneurs, and investors with:
💡 Startup incubators & accelerators
💡 Grants and funding opportunities
💡 Zero customs duties for many business sectors
Golden Visa vs. Regular UAE Business Visa – A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Regular UAE Business Visa | Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs |
| Visa Validity | 2-3 years (renewable) | 5 or 10 years (renewable) |
| Requires Local Sponsor? | Yes | No |
| Tax Benefits | Yes (0% personal tax) | Yes (0% personal tax) |
| Business Ownership | Limited | 100% full ownership |
| Can Sponsor Family? | Yes, but limited | Yes, including spouse & children |
| Path to Citizenship? | No | Possible in special cases |
Why Now is the Best Time to Apply
Dubai is making it easier than ever for entrepreneurs to set up and grow their businesses. The UAE is actively attracting top talent and investors with:
✔️ Fast-tracked approvals
✔️ Business setup in just days
✔️ Global networking opportunities
If you’ve ever thought about expanding your business internationally, Dubai should be on your radar.
Business Setup with Golden Visa – How to Get Started
So, you’re ready to start your business in Dubai and secure your Golden Visa? Great choice! Dubai makes the process quick, efficient, and entrepreneur-friendly. But before you jump in, you need to understand the steps, costs, and key decisions involved.
Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
The first thing you need to do is decide what type of business you want to run. The UAE has a long list of approved business activities, including:
Technology & AI startups
E-commerce businesses
Real estate investment companies
Consulting firms
Trade & export businesses
Different industries have different licensing requirements, so make sure you choose a business category that aligns with your skills and investment plans.
Step 2: Pick a Business Structure & Location
Dubai offers two main types of company setups:
| Business Type | Best For | Key Benefits |
| Mainland Company | Businesses that want to operate anywhere in the UAE | 100% ownership, ability to trade in Dubai’s local market |
| Free Zone Company | Startups, tech companies, and international businesses | Tax benefits, full repatriation of profits, streamlined setup |
Pro Tip: If your goal is to expand globally, a Free Zone Company might be a better choice because it offers lower setup costs, no customs duties, and quick approval.
Step 3: Get Your Business License
To legally run your business in Dubai, you need a trade license. The Department of Economic Development (DED) issues licenses for Mainland businesses, while Free Zones have their own authorities.
You’ll need to submit:
📌 Passport copy
📌 Business plan
📌 Visa application
📌 Proof of investment (for Golden Visa applicants)
Depending on your business type, the approval process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Step 4: Apply for the Golden Visa
Once your company is set up, it’s time to apply for your Golden Visa under the Dubai Investor Visa program. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Get an Establishment Card – This is a mandatory ID for your business.
2. Submit Your Investment Documents – Business license, investment proof, and financial records.
3. Medical Test & Emirates ID Application – A routine checkup and fingerprinting process.
4. Receive Your Golden Visa! – Once approved, you’ll get a 5 or 10-year visa.
How Much Does It Cost to Set Up a Business in Dubai?
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
| Business License | $4,000 – $10,000 |
| Visa & Medical Tests | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| Office Space (if required) | $3,000 – $10,000/year |
| Miscellaneous Fees | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $10,000 – $25,000 |
Tip: Costs vary depending on your business type, location, and required approvals. Free Zones often have cheaper setup packages, while mainland businesses offer more market flexibility.
Golden Visa Benefits for Business Owners
Acquiring a Golden Visa provides Dubai residents with advantages that go beyond traditional residency, positioning entrepreneurs and investors for long-term success. With its business-friendly policies, Dubai not only attracts global professionals but also simplifies the business setup in Dubai, offering fiscal benefits and stability in a thriving economic environment.
Here’s why holding a Golden Visa as a business owner is a smart move.
1. Long-Term Residency for Stability
Unlike traditional visas that need frequent renewals, the Golden Visa offers a renewable 10-year residency. This means business owners can focus on growth without worrying about visa extensions.
2. 100% Business Ownership
One of the biggest advantages is full business ownership. Previously, foreign entrepreneurs needed a local Emirati sponsor to own a company in the mainland. The Golden Visa eliminates this requirement, giving investors complete control.
3. No Personal Income Tax
Dubai is one of the most tax-friendly cities in the world. With zero personal income tax, business owners keep all their earnings, making it an ideal place for wealth accumulation.
4. Easier Access to Banking and Finance
Golden Visa holders gain preferential access to banking services, business loans, and investment opportunities. Banks and financial institutions view long-term residency holders as low-risk clients, making it easier to secure funding.
5. Family Sponsorship
The visa extends to spouses, children, and even household staff, ensuring long-term security for the entire family. There’s no need to worry about separate residency permits for family members.
6. Freedom to Travel and Live in the UAE
Golden Visa holders can live, work, and travel freely without needing a local sponsor. The visa remains valid even if the holder spends extended time outside the UAE, providing unmatched flexibility.
7. Pathway to Future Citizenship
While UAE citizenship is not automatically granted, long-term Golden Visa holders may be eligible for special residency upgrades, particularly for those making significant economic contributions.
8. Access to Business-Friendly Policies and Global Markets
Dubai is a global trade hub, connecting businesses to markets in Asia, Europe, and Africa. The UAE government supports foreign investors with:
- Startup incubators and grants
- No customs duties for many business sectors
- A fast-track system for licensing and permits
Why Business Owners Are Choosing Dubai
Dubai’s business ecosystem is built for growth, innovation, and global expansion. The combination of tax advantages, long-term stability, and full business ownership makes the Golden Visa one of the most attractive residency programs in the world.
With the business setup and benefits covered, the next section will discuss how investors can make the most of their Golden Visa residency. Let me know if you want any tweaks before moving forward.
Is the Golden Visa Right for You?
By now, you know how the Golden Visa Dubai Business program works, who qualifies, and the benefits it offers. But is it the right move for you? Let’s weigh the key factors to help you decide.
Who Should Apply for a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa makes sense if you are:
- An entrepreneur looking to set up a business in Dubai with long-term stability.
- An investor seeking profitable opportunities in the UAE’s thriving economy.
- A startup founder planning to build and scale a company in a tax-friendly environment.
- A real estate investor aiming to generate rental income or grow assets in Dubai.
If any of these sound like you, then the Golden Visa could be your best path to residency in Dubai.
Challenges to Consider
While the Golden Visa offers many advantages, it’s important to consider a few challenges:
- Initial Investment Requirement – You need at least AED 2 million ($545,000) in business or property investments.
- Business Commitment – The UAE government expects visa holders to actively contribute to the economy.
- Legal & Regulatory Changes – Visa policies may change, so keeping up with new regulations is essential.
Alternatives to the Golden Visa
If you don’t qualify for a Golden Visa, there are other options:
- 5-Year Green Visa – Designed for freelancers and skilled professionals.
- Standard Investor Visa – A shorter-term visa with fewer financial requirements.
- Employment Visa – Available for individuals working in UAE-based companies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Golden Visa Dubai Business program offers a unique opportunity for investors and entrepreneurs seeking long-term residency in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. With benefits like extended residency, business-friendly policies, and a strategic location, Dubai continues to attract global talent and investment.
For those considering this pathway, Expatriate Global specializes in guiding clients through the Golden Visa application process, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish. Their expertise in citizenship, tax elimination, and asset protection services makes them a valuable partner for high-net-worth individuals aiming to establish a presence in Dubai.
Embarking on this journey requires careful planning and informed decision-making. With the right guidance and resources, securing a Golden Visa can be a significant step toward achieving your business and lifestyle goals in the UAE.