With a population reaching 3.79 million by October 2024, fuelled by a rapidly growing expatriate community (over 85% of the population), Dubai continues to be a magnet for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals alike.
If you’ve been thinking about setting up your business in Dubai, now is the time to take action. Need a little more convincing?
Here are 10 reasons why Dubai is the perfect place to launch or expand your business in 2025.
- Excellent Location for Global Connectivity
Dubai is located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it an ideal hub for businesses looking to tap into diverse global markets. Whether you’re aiming for the Middle East, Southeast Asia, or even Europe, Dubai offers quick access with flights to major cities just hours away—think about 7 hours to London, 3 hours to Mumbai, and 8 hours to Shanghai. The connectivity is unmatched.
- Work Across Multiple Time Zones in a Single Workday
Dubai’s unique time zone offers an incredible advantage for businesses working with clients around the globe. You can easily collaborate with the US, Europe, and Asia, all in one workday. This allows for real-time communication and fast-paced productivity, whether you’re making deals in the morning or following up with teams late at night.
- Unmatched Tax Benefits
Let’s talk tax—everyone’s favourite topic. In Dubai, there’s no personal or income tax, which means your hard-earned revenue stays in your pocket. While a 9% corporate tax was recently introduced, it’s one of the lowest corporate tax rates globally, which makes Dubai one of the most tax-friendly places for business setup.
- A Hub for Expatriates
Did you know that over 88% of Dubai’s population consists of expatriates? Dubai is a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, creating a diverse and international business environment. This expat population is constantly growing, which creates a thriving marketplace and a pool of talent for your business to tap into.
- The Safest City in the World
Safety is a major concern for anyone considering moving to a new city. Dubai takes this seriously, ranking as the world’s safest city for 2024, with a safety index of 86.8. It boasts some of the lowest crime levels worldwide making it an attractive and secure place for both businesses and their employees.
- A Growing and Resilient Economy
Dubai is not slowing down anytime soon. With a projected economic growth rate of around 4.5% for 2024, driven by significant infrastructure investments and the city’s booming tourism sector, the economy is set to continue thriving. The D33 economic plan aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy over the next decade, ensuring a strong future for businesses.
- World-Class Infrastructure
Dubai’s infrastructure is second to none. The city is home to state-of-the-art residential complexes, high-end hospitals, reputable schools, and luxurious shopping malls. Whether you’re living or working here, you’ll benefit from world-class amenities that are designed to make your life easier, not to mention an extensive metro system that helps you navigate the city with ease.
- Efficient Visa and Residency Options
Dubai’s visa process is streamlined and expat-friendly, offering a wide variety of options for entrepreneurs, investors, and their families. Whether you’re setting up a business or just looking to live here, Dubai makes it simple to navigate residency and visa requirements, so you can focus on what matters most—growing your business.
- Affordable Cost of Living
Dubai is surprisingly affordable compared to other global business hubs. While it may seem like a high-end city, the cost of living is relatively low when compared to cities like London or New York. With a booming real estate market, you can find housing options that suit every budget—from luxury apartments to more affordable residential areas.
- A Commitment to Gender Equality
Dubai places a strong emphasis on gender equality, ranking among the top 10 countries for gender balance. The city’s commitment to equal opportunities makes it an attractive place for professionals of all genders, fostering a positive and inclusive environment for both living and working.
Why Choose IFZA for Your Business Setup in Dubai?
Now that you’re convinced that Dubai is the perfect place to set up shop, the next step is choosing the right partner to help you navigate the process. IFZA’s international network of Professional Partners can help guide you every step of the way, making the setup process easy and hassle-free. Choose from thousands of business activities, and even combine commercial and professional activities under a single license, allowing you to tailor your business exactly how you envision it.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to set your business up for success in one of the most business-friendly cities in the world. Contact an IFZA Professional Partner today and take the first step towards building your business empire in Dubai.