With its booming economy, business-friendly environment, and luxurious standard of living, it’s no wonder thousands of professionals and investors choose to call Dubai home each year.

However, relocating your business and family to Dubai requires more than simply obtaining a visa and booking a flight. From choosing the right business structure to finding the ideal home and school for your children, there are several important steps to plan carefully.

Here’s everything you need to know before making the move.

1. Choosing the Right Business Structure

Setting up a business in Dubai starts with selecting the correct structure. The UAE offers several options, each with its own regulations around ownership, taxation, and permitted activities.

Main business structures include:

• Free Zone Company:
  Ideal for 100% foreign ownership and a straightforward setup. However, free zone businesses can only trade within their zone or internationally, not directly in the UAE mainland.

• Mainland Company:
  Suitable for businesses that need to operate across the UAE. It allows trading with local clients and government entities and is often the preferred choice for service-based or client-facing companies.

• Offshore Company:
  Best for holding assets or structuring investments. Offshore entities cannot conduct business operations within the UAE.

Choosing the right structure from the outset will save you time, costs, and the need for future restructuring.

At Luxe Incorporations, we specialise in helping entrepreneurs and investors choose and set up the right business structure in Dubai. From navigating legal requirements to securing licences and visas, our experts make the process seamless — so you can focus on growing your business while we handle the setup.

2. Understanding Residency and Visas

Your company licence is typically linked to your residency status in Dubai. Once your business is registered, you can apply for:

• Investor or Partner Visa – for the business owner.

• Dependent Visas – for your spouse, children, and domestic staff if applicable.

• Mandatory Health Checks and Emirates ID Registration – required for all residents.

Planning your visa applications early ensures a smooth transition without unnecessary delays.

3. Financial Planning and Banking

While Dubai offers 0% personal income tax, there are still several financial considerations to factor in:

• Corporate Tax: 9% applies to qualifying businesses.

• Value Added Tax (VAT): 5% on most goods and services.

• Banking: UAE banks often require extensive documentation and in-person meetings to open business and personal accounts.

Engaging a financial or corporate advisor can help streamline this process and ensure full compliance with local regulations.

4. Housing and Cost of Living

Dubai’s property market caters to every lifestyle — from luxury beachfront villas to modern city apartments. When choosing your home, consider:

• Proximity to schools, work, and key amenities.

• Monthly budgeting for utilities, internet, and community fees.

• Renting initially to get familiar with neighbourhoods before buying.

Housing costs can vary widely by area, so research is essential before making long-term commitments.

5. Education for Your Children

For families relocating to Dubai, education is often a top priority. The city offers an impressive range of international schools following British, American, IB, and Indian curricula.

Key points to consider:

• Annual fees typically range from AED 25,000 to AED 100,000+ per child.

• Popular schools fill up quickly — apply as early as possible.

• School reputation, location, and curriculum should align with your family’s long-term plans.

6. Healthcare Access

Dubai’s healthcare system is world-class, offering advanced medical facilities and highly trained professionals. Health insurance is mandatory, and employers must provide cover for employees.

If you’re self-employed, ensure your family’s insurance policy meets the required standards before you arrive.

7. Cultural Adaptation and Lifestyle

Although Dubai is an international hub with residents from all over the world, understanding and respecting local customs is vital. The city offers:

• A safe, family-friendly environment with strict laws and low crime rates.

• Endless leisure options — beaches, malls, theme parks, and outdoor adventures.

• A thriving expat community that helps newcomers settle in quickly.

Dubai’s lifestyle blends modern luxury with traditional values, making it a unique and welcoming place to live.

8. Long-Term Planning

Beyond the initial move, consider your long-term goals:

• Estate Planning: Properly structure assets for the future.

• Golden Visa: Available for investors and high-value property owners, offering long-term residency.

• Succession Planning: Important for family-run or inherited businesses.

Early planning ensures your family and business are well-positioned for stability and growth in the UAE.

9. Car Purchase or Rental

Transport is essential in Dubai, and while public transport is improving, most residents prefer to drive.

• Car Rental: Convenient for your first few months but expensive in the long term.

• Buying a Car: If you’re self-employed, be prepared to pay in cash – financing can be difficult for business owners.

• Always ask for a warranty and full service history, and arrange a professional inspection before buying privately.

For expert advice and assistance in purchasing your car in Dubai, contact Ralph Howie at the Car Buying People.

Ready to start your Dubai journey?

Contact us at Luxe Incorporations today for expert advice on business setup, visas, and family relocation. Let us help you make Dubai your new home and business hub.

Jenna Jenkins is Managing Partner at Luxe Incorporations.
[email protected]
+971 4 410 7278

Ralph Howie is Managing Partner at Car Buying People.
[email protected]
+971 52 104 9357