Dubai / UAE
Residence through Business Setup
Eligibility, capital thresholds and visa duration depend on the legal route, emirate and free zone or mainland setup.
Last updated: 10/2026
Why UAE Residence through Business Setup?
The UAE Investor Visa targets entrepreneurs and investors who establish a company in Dubai or invest in existing businesses. The UAE does not levy personal income tax. How your income is taxed depends on your length of stay and tax residence; if your company is managed from your home country, it may be taxable there.
A common route is a free zone company: as a shareholder you apply for an investor visa through it, and the authorities decide on it. We support the formation and the visa application.
You only need the company, without moving?
A visa is only needed if you want to live in the UAE. If the company is managed from where you live, it may be taxable there. For a company without moving, it is also worth comparing Hong Kong and Singapore.
What a UAE company setup brings
Process
Consultation & Free Zone Selection
Selection of the free zone that fits your activity.
Company Formation
Registration of your company in the selected free zone.
Visa Application
Application for investor visa through the free zone.
Medical & Emirates ID
Medical examination and Emirates ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which free zone fits my business?
Can I also invest in the mainland?
What taxes will I pay in the UAE?
Can my family come along?
Can Strasia coordinate the entire process?
What is the path to Permanent Residency?
Clarify your route in one call
Free initial consultation, 60 minutes, no obligation.
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Business Setup Residence Routes Compared
Free zone, mainland and Golden Visa: the key differences.
| Criterion | Free Zone Setup | Mainland Setup | Golden Visa (Investor) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residence Visa | Investor Visa (2–3 yrs) | Investor Visa (2–3 yrs) | 10 years |
| Shareholder / Partner | Yes, 100% foreign ownership | Yes, 100% foreign ownership for most activities (since 2021) | Not required |
| Market / Clients | Primarily international | Local & international | No restriction |
| Family Sponsorship | Yes, as dependants | Yes, as dependants | Yes, included |
| Medical & Emirates ID | Required | Required | Required |
| Renewal | With active company | With active company | Renewable if conditions are met |
| Difference from Golden Visa | Shorter term, tied to the company | Local market access, shorter term | Longer term, higher requirements |
Foreign ownership per u.ae, corporate tax per the Federal Tax Authority (read 22 Oct 2026); other details not re-checked.
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Tell us what it is about: company formation, accounting and tax, or a visa. You will hear from us within one business day.
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