PRO Partner Group Blog

The UAE government have released new visas expanding the short and long-term residency options, making the UAE an even more attractive destination for expats from all parts of the world. The new visas are part of the most significant immigration and residency changes the UAE has ever implemented. See below the available visa options, their validity, and requirements. Read more

In just a few decades, Dubai has established itself as a centre for commerce, finance and tourism. Its modern infrastructure, business friendly policies and liberal tax regime have attracted investors from across the globe. Situated strategically at the crossroads between Asia and Africa, it has used this geographic advantage to grow and diversify its economy with foreign direct investment as the main driver. More recently, it has set its sights on the technology industry and is fast becoming a major player in this arena, challenging other established global hubs such as San Francisco, London, Hong Kong and Singapore. This article examines some of the unique advantages Dubai offers to tech businesses and some of the main considerations when setting up and running a successful tech business in the UAE. Read more

The UAE has long been an attractive investment destination for entrepreneurs, business startups and established companies looking to expand operations internationally. With a modern, digitally advanced infrastructure, favourable tax incentives and a strategic location offering easy access to the international markets of Africa, Asia and the Middle East, it’s not hard to see its appeal. Traditionally, the emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi have stolen the limelight, with the other 5 emirates often being overlooked by foreign investors. However, the other emirates have unique advantages and are worthy of consideration when looking at setting up a business in the UAE. This article examines the investment potential of the five smaller emirates: Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain, looking at the key industries and investment options in each, and studying how to approach business set up and company maintenance in these emirates. Read more

As neighbours and the two most prominent emirates of the UAE, Abu Dhabi and Dubai attract foreign investors and entrepreneurs in their droves. Both emirates have transformed themselves in short time into global business, banking and tourism hubs, but how do the two emirates differ from a business investment perspective, and which is the best location for your business venture? This article examines the main business sectors and investment opportunities in each emirate and the key differences between each. Read more

People are attracted to Dubai for many reasons, career opportunities, tax-free income, luxurious hotels and year-round sunshine to name just a few. The emirate is a magnet for investors and entrepreneurs and consistently ranks highly on foreign direct investment indices. Due to the absence of income tax in Dubai, people incorrectly assume that Dubai is completely tax free. While there is no income tax on income generated in Dubai and no sales tax on most goods and services, Dubai is not 100% tax-free. This article reveals the taxes imposed in Dubai and their implications for those living and doing business in the emirate. Read more

Each year, hundreds of foreign companies relocate or set up businesses in the UAE to take advantage of special tax incentives, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and access to major economies across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. However, the recent announcement of the introduction of corporate tax (CT) will have significant impacts on companies that operate within the UAE. This guide will examine the reasons for the introduction of CT in the UAE, the scope of the new tax regime and how it will impact businesses. Read more

In 2016, the Government of Dubai launched ‘Dubai Future Accelerators’ (DFA), managed by the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), an initiative aimed at finding entrepreneurs, private sector organisations and talented individuals that can provide innovative solutions to local and global challenges of the future. DFA hopes to attract people with technology skills and creativity to collaborate with the DFF in turning Dubai into a global proving ground for emerging technologies. Read more

Qatar is currently undergoing enormous economic growth. The opportunity to host the FIFA World Cup has sparked huge development of the country’s infrastructure. The construction of new stadiums and other ongoing engineering projects such as the redevelopment of the old Doha Port, the Lusail Light Rail Transit Project and the Sharq Crossing have created thousands of new jobs and investment opportunities and presented engineering consultancy companies with a unique opportunity to capitalise on this rapid expansion and growth. Read more

Setting up a foreign-owned business in the UAE has never been easier. As well as mainland options, the UAE boasts more than 40 economic free zones which provide supportive business communities, modern, high-tech infrastructure and competitive set up costs. The Meydan Free Zone, established in 2009, is a business free zone with an enviable location and access to world class facilities. Situated in the Meydan hotel complex, close to downtown Dubai and only 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport (DXB), it is home to a premium golf course, high-end residences and the prestigious Meydan racecourse. Read more

The Qatar Financial Centre, an onshore business and financial centre located in Qatar’s capital city, Doha, provides an ideal base for investment in the country and other expanding economies in the region. It offers its members a comprehensive business infrastructure where they can benefit from legal support, regulatory compliance, and tax advisory services. Read more