How to Start a Business in the UAE as an Expat in 2025

The UAE has become a global hub for entrepreneurs, attracting expats looking to establish their own businesses in a thriving and tax-friendly environment. With its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and numerous free zones offering 100% foreign ownership, the UAE presents an attractive opportunity for business-minded expats.

However, moving to a new country and setting up a business can be overwhelming. This is where Let's Move simplifies the process. As a comprehensive relocation platform, Let's Move provides personalized relocation plans, vetted service providers, and a dedicated dashboard to manage all aspects of your move. Whether you need help with business setup, visa applications, housing, or shipping, Let's Move ensures a smooth transition so you can focus on launching your business with confidence.

1. Choose a Business Activity

Before starting a business in the UAE, expats must decide on the type of business activity they wish to pursue. The UAE has specific regulations for different industries, and your chosen business activity will determine the required licenses and permissions. Common business sectors for expats include:

• Technology and IT – Software development, cybersecurity, AI solutions

• E-commerce – Online retail, dropshipping, digital marketplaces

• Consulting Services – Business, financial, marketing, or legal consulting

• Real Estate – Property management, brokerage, investment advisory

• Healthcare – Medical clinics, wellness centers, telemedicine

If you're relocating to the UAE to start a business, Let's Move can provide valuable insights on living costs, housing options, and lifestyle adjustments to help you make an informed decision before launching your venture.

2. Select a Business Structure

Expats have several options when it comes to business structures in the UAE. The choice of structure impacts ownership rights, operational flexibility, and taxation. The most common options include:

• Mainland Company – Requires a local service agent for some sectors but allows unrestricted trade within the UAE.

• Free Zone Company – Offers 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, and simplified setup but may have trade restrictions outside the free zone.

• Offshore Company – Ideal for international business operations, offering tax efficiency and asset protection.

Each emirate has designated free zones that cater to specific industries. Let's Move connects expat entrepreneurs with trusted service providers to handle business registration, ensuring a hassle-free setup experience.

3. Register Your Business and Obtain a License

Once you’ve selected a business structure, the next step is to register your company and secure a business license. This process involves:

• Choosing a trade name (which must comply with UAE naming regulations).

• Applying for initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the respective free zone authority.

• Submitting required documents, such as passport copies, business plans, and lease agreements.

• Paying the applicable registration and licensing fees.

The three main types of licenses in the UAE include:

• Commercial License – For trading and general business activities.

• Professional License – For service-based businesses like consultancy or legal firms.

• Industrial License – For manufacturing and production activities.

Navigating this process can be complex, but Let's Move helps by providing guidance on legal requirements and connecting you with vetted business consultants who handle all paperwork efficiently.

4. Secure an Office Space

Depending on your business structure, you may need to rent an office space or establish a virtual office. Free zones often provide flexible office solutions, including co-working spaces and business centers, while mainland companies may require a physical office to meet licensing regulations.

Let's Move can assist with finding office spaces tailored to your budget and location preferences, ensuring you have a workspace that suits your business needs.

5. Open a Corporate Bank Account

A corporate bank account is essential for business transactions in the UAE. Expats must provide the following documents to open a business bank account:

• Trade license and registration documents

• Shareholder and director details

• Proof of business activities

• Office lease agreement

Top banks for business accounts in the UAE include:

• Emirates NBD

• Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB)

• Dubai Islamic Bank

• Mashreq Bank

Opening a bank account as an expat can be a time-consuming process, but Let's Move partners with leading financial institutions to help streamline the setup, making banking in the UAE easier for newcomers.

6. Apply for Visas and Sponsorship

After obtaining a trade license, business owners can apply for residence visas for themselves, their employees, and family members. The number of visas available depends on factors such as company size and office space.

Expats also need an Emirates ID and a medical fitness test as part of the residency process. Many free zones offer visa packages, streamlining the process for entrepreneurs.

If you’re relocating with your family or employees, Let's Move simplifies the visa and sponsorship process by offering personalized relocation plans, ensuring every aspect of your move—from legal paperwork to housing—is handled with precision.

7. Manage Your Move and Settling-In Process

Starting a business is just one part of the journey—relocating to a new country comes with additional challenges, from finding accommodation to arranging international shipping. Let's Move offers:

• Housing Assistance – Helping you find a home that fits your budget and lifestyle.

• International Moving Services – Connecting you with vetted shipping and logistics providers.

• Local Orientation – Providing valuable insights into UAE culture, laws, and daily life.

With a personal dashboard, Let's Move allows you to track all aspects of your move in one place, ensuring a stress-free transition.

Conclusion

Starting a business in the UAE as an expat is an exciting opportunity, but it requires careful planning and execution. From securing the right business license to handling visas, office spaces, and bank accounts, the process can feel overwhelming.

That’s where Let's Move comes in. As a trusted relocation platform, Let's Move doesn’t just help with moving logistics—it provides end-to-end support for entrepreneurs, ensuring a smooth transition into life and business in the UAE.

Whether you’re launching a tech startup, opening a consulting firm, or expanding an e-commerce venture, Let's Move ensures that both your business setup and relocation needs are handled professionally, so you can focus on what matters most—building your future.

👉 Ready to launch your business and move to the UAE? Start your journey with Let's Move today!