Publications

Despite the introduction of corporate tax, the UAE remains one of the most attractive global destinations for startups—particularly in technology, AI, e-commerce, and innovative solutions. The government continues to emphasize that the new tax system is designed to support growth, not to impose pressure. This isn’t just rhetoric: the underlying logic of the UAE’s regulatory framework is to enable small and innovative businesses to grow, scale, and operate transparently—without fear of punitive sanctions.

The UAE is steadily building a unique startup ecosystem where tax reliefs, regulatory flexibility, access to funding, and proximity to tech hubs all work together. Here are the core support mechanisms available in 2025:

The United Arab Emirates has long established itself as a global hub for business, innovation, and high quality of life. In recent years, this position has been further strengthened by a flexible and diversified visa policy aimed at attracting entrepreneurs, investors, skilled professionals, remote workers, and even retirees. As a result, the country has developed a multi-tiered, yet highly adaptive entry and residency system — reflecting the UAE’s strategic ambition to become a long-term home for international professionals and families.

Whereas the region was once viewed primarily as a destination for short-term assignments and temporary employment, today the Emirates are consciously building a model in which foreign residents can not only work but also live, invest, and grow here on a long-term basis. To take advantage of these opportunities, it is essential to understand the different types of visas, their intended purposes, and how they align with your goals.

The United Arab Emirates has traditionally been associated with rapid economic growth, global talent attraction, and ambitious development projects. However, in recent years, influenced by global trends and internal reforms, the country’s labor market has undergone significant transformation. Today, the future of work in the UAE is being shaped at the intersection of three key trends: the widespread adoption of remote work, the legalization of flexible employment formats, and the rapid digitalization of HR processes.

The UAE entered 2025 with a bold and mature phase of tax reform — signaling a clear shift from its traditional offshore model to a transparent, compliance-driven business environment. While the country maintains a business-friendly tax regime, it now demands full alignment with international standards of compliance, transparency, and reporting.

This is a major turning point for international businesses operating in or through the UAE. Former schemes relying on nominee structures, lack of economic substance, or passive Free Zone registrations are becoming obsolete — and in some cases, risky.