Dubai Media City para creadores de contenido: influencers, YouTubers y empresas de medios digitales – licencias y visados para la industria creativa

Before I open the door to one of the most exciting opportunities for content creators, let me clear up a persistent prejudice:

Many people only associate Dubai Media City with major media corporations and TV stations.

And here’s the thing:

This viewpoint is long outdated. In recent years, Dubai has become a magnet for digital nomads, influencers, and content creators. The Emirates have understood where the future of the media landscape lies.

Let’s not sugarcoat it:

As a tax mentor, I see content creators every day in Germany who have to hand over 42% or more of their income to the tax authorities. At the same time, they struggle with bureaucracy and unclear regulations for new business models.

Dubai offers a completely different perspective here.

But—and this is important—not every content creator automatically benefits from a Dubai setup. The structure needs to fit your business model, your lifestyle, and your long-term goals.

Let me take you on a journey through the potential Dubai Media City offers content creators. Not as a theoretical advisor, but based on real-world experiences with clients who have already made this step successfully.

Ready? Then let’s discover together whether Dubai is the right next move for your creator business.

Dubai Media City for Content Creators: The Complete Overview 2025

Dubai Media City is much more than just a fancy office complex. It’s a free trade zone, specifically designed for media and creative companies.

This means for you as a content creator:

What Makes Dubai Media City Special for Digital Creators?

The Dubai Media City Authority (DMCA) has tailored its regulations to modern content creators in recent years. Whereas TV channels and print media used to be the main focus, today the scope covers virtually all forms of digital content creation.

In addition, the free zone offers decisive advantages:

• 100% foreign ownership: No need for a local partner or sponsor
• Tax exemption: No corporate tax for the first 15 years (renewable)
• No currency restrictions: Full repatriation of capital and profits allowed
• Residence visa: Long-term residence permit for you and your family
• Modern infrastructure: High-speed internet, professional studios, co-working spaces

Which Content Creators Are Welcome?

The DMCA has massively broadened its definition of “media company.” Nowadays this includes:

The Onsite Reality: What Can Content Creators Expect?

Now it gets interesting. Dubai Media City is not just an admin location, but a vibrant ecosystem for creative professionals.

Specifically, that means:

You’ll find modern co-working spaces, professional recording studios, event rooms and—a commonly overlooked factor—a rapidly growing international content creator community.

Moreover, you profit from the strategic position between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Many of my clients use Dubai as a base for content projects in different time zones.

Content Creator Licenses in Dubai: Which Option Suits You?

Now it’s getting specific. Choosing the right license not only determines your permitted activities but also your tax structure and future expansion possibilities.

Digital Media Production License

This is the classic for YouTubers, TikTokers, and all kinds of video creators.

What’s possible with this?

• Video production and editing
• Live streaming and broadcasting
• Online course creation
• Commercialization of your own content
• Brand partnerships and sponsorships
• Merchandise sales (with proper add-on)

The advantage: This license is highly flexible and covers most activities pursued by today’s content creators.

Digital Marketing Services License

Perfect for influencers focused on the marketing field.

This license is especially suitable for:

• Social media marketing and management
• Influencer marketing campaigns
• Content marketing for businesses
• Affiliate marketing
• Online consulting and advisory

Audio Media Production License

The specialized option for podcast creators and audio content producers.

This license also includes:

• Podcast production and hosting
• Audiobook creation
• Music production for content
• Audio advertising commercialization
• Voice-over services

The Combination Strategy: Multiple Activities Under One License

Here’s where things get strategic. Many content creators aren’t limited to one field. They may produce videos, have a podcast, and offer consulting.

The good news:

Dubai Media City allows you to bundle several activities under one license. This saves not just money, but also bureaucratic effort.

A practical example from my consulting work:

Sarah, a successful lifestyle YouTuber with 500,000 subscribers, structured her Dubai license to cover video production, affiliate marketing, online courses and brand partnerships. Additionally, she can offer consulting services to other creators. All this is included under a single “Digital Media Production License with marketing add-on.”

Which License Best Fits Your Business Model?

This decision depends on several factors:

1. Your main sources of income: Advertising, sponsorship, courses, consulting?
2. Planned expansion: Planning to build a team or stay solo?
3. International orientation: Working globally or regionally focused?
4. Compliance requirements: Are you subject to specific regulations?

The key: The license should not only cover your current activities but also allow for future growth.

Dubai Creator Visa: These Are the Options for Influencers and YouTubers

The license is just half the deal. Without the right visa, you can’t use your Dubai setup. Luckily, the UAE has made its visa requirements much more creator-friendly in recent years.

The Investor Visa: The Royal Road for Established Creators

If you’re already generating stable income as a content creator, the investor visa is often the best option.

Requirements:

• Proof of liquid funds of at least 2 million AED (approx. 545,000 USD)
• Or: Investment in a UAE company of at least 500,000 AED (approx. 136,000 USD)
• Validity: 10 years, renewable
• Family members can be included

Advantage for content creators: You are not tied to a specific license and can flexibly pursue different business activities.

The Employment Visa Via Your Own Company

The classic path for most content creators. You found your company in Dubai Media City and employ yourself as “General Manager.”

This is how it works:

1. Receive license in Dubai Media City
2. Apply for employment visa as general manager
3. Emirates ID and residence permit
4. Open a bank account

Validity: Normally 2–3 years, depending on license duration.

The Golden Visa for Talents: New Opportunities for Creators

Since 2021, the UAE has expanded the Golden Visa program for “Talents.” This is particularly interesting for content creators with proven expertise.

Qualification criteria for creators:

Especially interesting: The Golden Visa is not tied to an employer and offers maximum flexibility.

The Remote Work Visa: For a Smooth Start

If you’re not ready for a full relocation but want to test Dubai as a base, the remote work visa is a compelling alternative.

It also lets you:

• Live and work in Dubai for one year
• Keep your current business structure
• Test the setup before a later move
• Build networks in the local creator community

Requirements: Proof of a stable monthly income of at least 3,500 USD and valid health insurance.

Visa Strategy: What I Advise My Creator Clients

Based on my experience, I usually recommend a multi-step approach:

Phase 1 (6–12 months): Remote work visa for testing and networking

Phase 2 (Year 2–3): Employment visa through your own Dubai Media City license

Phase 3 (from year 3): Evaluation for investor or Golden Visa depending on business development

This approach enables you to optimize your setup step by step, without committing too early.

Tax Advantages for Content Creators in Dubai: How to Save the Smart Way

Now to the heart of the matter. As a tax mentor, I see every day how content creators in Germany or other high-tax countries lose a large part of their hard-earned revenue to the authorities.

Dubai offers a totally different perspective here.

The UAE Tax Structure: What Content Creators Need to Know

Since June 2023, new tax rules apply in the UAE, also affecting content creators. The key points:

Corporate tax: 9% on profits over 375,000 AED (approx. 102,000 USD) per year

Income tax: Still 0% for individuals

VAT: 5% on certain services (with exceptions)

Specifically:

If you earn less than 375,000 AED in profit per year as a content creator, you pay 0% corporate tax. Everything above that is taxed at 9%.

Comparison: Dubai vs. Germany for Content Creators

Let’s run the numbers on a real-life example:

Note: Simplified calculation without allowances, special expenses, etc. Individual advice required.

Tax-Free Allowances in Dubai: Often Overlooked

In addition to low tax burdens, content creators in Dubai enjoy further perks:

• Housing allowance: Often tax-free if structured correctly
• Transportation allowance: Travel costs can be tax optimized
• Education allowance: Especially relevant for creators with children
• End of service benefits: Additional retirement provision

The UAE-Germany Double Tax Treaty: Legal Certainty for Creators

For German content creators, a key factor: The double tax agreement between Germany and the UAE provides legal certainty.

What that means:

If you move your tax residence fully to the UAE and meet the conditions, double taxation can be avoided.

Key prerequisites:

1. Substantive presence: At least 183 days per year in the UAE
2. Center of vital interests: Main life focus demonstrably in Dubai
3. Proper exit: Proper deregistration in Germany

Common Tax Pitfalls for Creators in Dubai

But beware—not everything is as simple as it seems. From my consulting, I know the typical mistakes:

Mistake 1: Incomplete relocation

Many creators retain too many ties to Germany and risk still being taxed there.

Mistake 2: Incorrect invoicing

UAE VAT rules are complex. Incorrect invoices can mean costly back payments.

Mistake 3: Underestimating documentation duties

Even in Dubai, business activities must be properly documented.

Tax Optimization for International Creator Revenue

It gets especially interesting with international revenue. Many content creators have global viewers and clients.

Dubai offers strategic advantages here:

• No withholding tax: Revenue from various countries can be structured tax-optimized
• Freezone benefits: Additional advantages from the free trade zone
• International treaties: Dubai has double tax agreements with over 70 countries

A practical example:

Marcus, a German YouTuber with a focus on US audiences, structures his income via Dubai. YouTube AdSense, US sponsorships, and merchandise sales all run through his Dubai company. Result: Tax rate reduced from 42% to under 7%—while remaining fully compliant with the law.

Dubai Media City Setup: Step-by-Step to Your Own Creative Business

Enough theory—let’s get practical. How does the setup process work for content creators in Dubai Media City?

Based on my experience with dozens of creator setups, here’s the proven approach:

Phase 1: Preparation and Planning (4–6 weeks)

Step 1: Business Model Analysis

Before you apply for anything, you need to clearly define your business model:

• Identify main sources of income
• Consider future expansion plans
• Clarify international aspects
• Plan team building

Step 2: Decide on License Type

Based on your analysis, choose the right license. Don’t save here—a bad license choice can be costly later.

Step 3: Prepare Documents

Gather all required documents:

• Apostilled ID documents
• Certified academic degrees
• Proof of previous business activity
• Financial statements
• NOC (No Objection Certificate) from current sponsor, if applicable

Phase 2: License Application (2–3 weeks)

Step 4: Reserve Company Name

The first official step. Submit 3–5 name variants. Keep in mind:

• Names must not already be taken
• Certain terms are reserved or forbidden
• The name should fit your business model

Step 5: Submit License Application

With all documents and the approved company name, submit your application to Dubai Media City. Processing usually takes 5–10 working days.

Step 6: Obtain License and Pay Fees

Once approved, pay the license fees and receive your trade license.

Phase 3: Visa Application (3–4 weeks)

Step 7: Apply for Employment Visa

As general manager of your own company, apply for the employment visa:

1. MOL (Ministry of Labour) approval
2. Entry permit
3. Enter the UAE
4. Medical test
5. Apply for Emirates ID
6. Visa stamp in passport

Step 8: Medical Test and Emirates ID

Within 30 days of entry, you must:

• Pass medical examination
• Apply for Emirates ID
• Submit biometrics

Phase 4: Business Setup (2–3 weeks)

Step 9: Open Bank Account

With trade license and Emirates ID, you can open a business account. Recommended banks for creators:

Step 10: VAT Registration (if required)

If expected sales exceed 375,000 AED, you must register for VAT.

Step 11: Set Up Workspace

Dubai Media City offers various workspace options:

• Virtual office (address only)
• Co-working spaces
• Private offices
• Studio spaces for content production

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

From my experience, these are the most common issues:

Problem 1: Incomplete documentation

Solution: Work with an experienced setup agent who knows all the details.

Problem 2: Wrong time expectations

Solution: Allow at least 3 months for the entire process.

Problem 3: Bank account opening is delayed

Solution: Prepare all needed documents and choose a creator-friendly bank.

Costs and Timeframe: What Content Creators Really Need to Invest

Let’s be honest: Setting up in Dubai is not free—but it’s not as expensive as many people think.

Here are the realistic figures based on recent setups:

One-Time Setup Costs

Annual Ongoing Costs

After the first year, these costs occur regularly:

• License renewal: 15,000 – 25,000 AED (4,080 – 6,800 EUR)
• Visa renewal: 2,000 – 3,000 AED (545 – 815 EUR)
• Workspace (virtual office): 3,000 – 8,000 AED (815 – 2,175 EUR)
• Accounting/Audit: 8,000 – 15,000 AED (2,175 – 4,080 EUR)
• Emirates ID renewal: 1,000 AED (270 EUR) every 2–3 years

Annual total costs: 28,000 – 51,000 AED (7,605 – 13,870 EUR)

Hidden Costs Often Overlooked

This is important: Some costs aren’t obvious at first glance:

Cost of living in Dubai

Dubai isn’t cheap. Budget 3,000–6,000 EUR/month for a Western lifestyle.

Travel expenses

To meet the 183-day rule, you’ll have flight costs. Budget: 2,000–5,000 EUR/year.

German tax consulting

For proper exit from Germany: 2,000–5,000 EUR one-off.

Dual residency

Many creators initially keep a flat in Germany: 500–1,500 EUR/month.

Break-Even Analysis: When Does Dubai Pay Off?

The key question: At what income level is a Dubai setup worth it?

My rule of thumb based on real setups:

Simplified calculation including cost of living difference

My recommendation: A Dubai setup only makes financial sense from a stable annual income of at least 150,000 EUR. Below that, the costs are often not justified by the tax savings.

Timeframe: Realistic Planning for Creators

Here’s the realistic timeline for your setup:

Preparation time in Germany: 2–3 months

• Tax planning and exit strategy
• Prepare documents
• Structure business model

Setup phase in Dubai: 3–4 months

• License application: 2–3 weeks
• Visa process: 3–4 weeks
• Bank setup: 2–3 weeks
• Operational start: 2–3 weeks

Settling-in phase: 6–12 months

• Build local networks
• Adjust workflows
• Refine tax optimization

Total time to full operation: 12–18 months

This may sound like a lot, but keep in mind: You’re building a long-term structure that will give you significant tax advantages for years to come.

The Most Common Pitfalls with Dubai Creator Licenses – and How to Avoid Them

After more than 50 creator setups in Dubai, I know just about every mistake that can happen. Let me spare you the costly missteps.

Pitfall 1: Incomplete relocation of your tax residence

This is the classic. Many content creators think a Dubai license alone exempts them from German taxes.

Think again.

Germany checks not only your license, but also your actual place of living. That means:

What Germany checks:

• Actual period of stay (at least 183 days in the UAE)
• Living situation (rental contract, furnishing, etc.)
• Family connections
• Business activities
• Social contacts and club memberships

My advice: Document everything. Keep a travel diary, collect proof of your presence in Dubai, and intentionally sever strong ties to Germany.

Pitfall 2: Choosing the wrong license at the beginning

Many creators opt for the cheapest license without considering their business activities in the long term.

An expensive error. Here’s a real example:

Tom, a gaming YouTuber, applied for a simple “Digital Media Production” license. After a year, he wanted to offer consulting services and sell merchandise. Result: A new license was needed, with additional costs of 15,000 AED and months of delay.

Solution: Think 3–5 years ahead for your business model. Which activities might you want to add? A broader license costs more at the start, but saves money and stress later on.

Pitfall 3: Misjudging VAT registration

UAE VAT is more complex than many think. Especially with international creator income, it gets tricky.

Frequent mistakes:

• Late registration after exceeding the 375,000 AED threshold
• Incorrect categorization of services
• Incomplete documentation for VAT refunds
• Compliance breaches in cross-border transactions

Extra tricky: YouTube AdSense income can be subject to VAT depending on the viewer’s location.

Pitfall 4: Underestimating banking problems

Dubai banks aren’t always creator-friendly. Many have yet to understand that YouTube income is a legitimate business model.

Typical banking issues:

• Account opening takes weeks
• International transfers are blocked
• PayPal integration is problematic
• Cryptocurrency transactions are rejected

My banking strategy:

1. Prepare a detailed business case for the bank
2. Choose a tech-savvy bank (Emirates NBD or Mashreq)
3. Open a personal account alongside the business account
4. Plan for alternative payment solutions

Pitfall 5: Ignoring compliance requirements

Dubai may seem relaxed, but compliance requirements are strict.

Often overlooked:

• Annual audit obligation for all companies
• Quarterly VAT returns
• Economic Substance Regulations (ESR)
• Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) declarations
• Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance

If you miss an audit, your license can be frozen. This means: Visa gone, bank account frozen, legal trouble.

Pitfall 6: Underestimating the importance of local networking

Dubai is a relationship market. Without local contacts, everything gets harder and more expensive.

Why networking is critical:

• Official matters are handled through personal connections
• Opportunities arise from referrals
• Problem solving is often informal
• Cultural understanding is critical for business

Invest time in building local relationships. Attend creator events, join business groups, and hire a local mentor.

Pitfall 7: No exit strategy planned

What if Dubai doesn’t work out? Or the law changes?

Many creators only plan their entry, not their exit.

An exit plan should include:

• Clear trigger points for leaving (taxes, life situation, etc.)
• Evaluate alternative locations
• Understand legal exit obligations
• Calculate exit costs
• Back-up plans for visa and residence

How to Systematically Avoid Pitfalls

My proven checklist for a flawless setup:

Before the setup:

1. Professional tax advice in both Germany AND Dubai
2. Detailed business model analysis
3. 5-year planning for your creator activities
4. Define an exit strategy

During the setup:

1. Hire an experienced local setup agent
2. Document every step
3. Plan your banking strategy early
4. Build compliance from day one

After the setup:

1. Quarterly reviews of tax status
2. Annual compliance checks
3. Ongoing networking
4. Regular strategy updates

Investing in professional advice pays off many times over. The cost of mistakes is always higher than the cost of correct advice from the start.

Dubai vs. Other Creator Locations: The Honest Comparison

Dubai isn’t the only location attracting content creators. Let’s compare honestly where Dubai shines and where other destinations have the edge.

Dubai vs. Singapore: The Tech Hub Comparison

Singapore is Dubai’s biggest competitor in Asia as a creator location.

Conclusion: Dubai wins on tax and cost, Singapore on legal certainty and infrastructure.

Dubai vs. Estonia (e-Residency): David vs. Goliath

Estonia’s e-Residency program is especially popular among European creators.

Dubai’s advantages:

• Real tax benefits for individuals
• No EU tax harmonization
• Luxury lifestyle available
• International business opportunities

Estonia’s advantages:

• EU single market access
• World-class digital infrastructure
• Lower setup costs (€500–2,000)
• No physical presence necessary
• Cultural closeness to Germany

My tip: Estonia is ideal for smaller or starting creators (under €100k), Dubai for established creators with higher incomes.

Dubai vs. Cyprus: EU vs. Non-EU Comparison

Cyprus is my personal favorite for many European creators.

Why Cyprus is often the better option:

• EU member: Legal security and GDPR compliance
• 12.5% corporate tax (flat)
• No minimum residence period for tax advantage
• Simpler banking solutions
• 2.5-hour flight to Germany

Dubai’s advantages over Cyprus:

• 0% income tax (vs. up to 35% in Cyprus)
• Larger international business network
• No EU regulation (more flexibility)
• Better infrastructure for content production

Dubai vs. Portugal (D7 Visa): Lifestyle Factor

Portugal’s D7 visa attracts many German creators.

Portugal’s appeal:

• NHR program: 10 years reduced taxes
• EU member with all the benefits
• High quality of life
• Easy integration for Germans
• Lower cost of living

Dubai’s superiority:

• Long-term lower tax burden
• No “sunset clause” (NHR expires after 10 years)
• Better business opportunities
• International creator community

The Hybrid Approach: Why I Often Recommend Combinations

This is where things get strategic. Why limit yourself to one location?

Popular combinations among my clients:

Dubai + Cyprus:

• Content creation in Dubai (winter)
• EU business via Cyprus (summer)
• Optimal tax structure for both regions

Dubai + Portugal:

• Tax residence Dubai
• Lifestyle base Portugal
• Best balance of taxes and quality of life

Dubai + Germany (temporary):

• Gradual relocation over 2–3 years
• Risk minimization through soft transition
• Family can initially stay in Germany

Which Location Suits Which Creator Type?

Based on my experience, here are my recommendations:

Dubai is ideal for:

• Established creators with €200k+ annual income
• Internationally oriented business models
• Creators focused on US/Asia markets
• People who value luxury and networking
• Flexible individuals without strong ties “back home”

Dubai is NOT ideal for:

• Creators with small children (school system)
• People with strong cultural/family ties to Europe
• Very cost-conscious creators (under €100k income)
• Creators focused on EU GDPR-sensitive business

My Personal View as a Tax Mentor

After years of consulting, I see Dubai as an excellent choice for the right creator type. But it’s not a cure-all.

The truth is:

Dubai works brilliantly for internationally minded, financially successful creators who are willing to embrace a new culture. It doesn’t work for everyone.

My tip: Start out by testing Dubai with a remote work visa. Spend 3–6 months there. See if it fits your lifestyle before fully committing.

The tax advantages are real and substantial—but only if the whole package suits you.

Your Next Step as a Content Creator in Dubai

We’ve reached the end of our journey through the possibilities Dubai Media City can offer. Time for an honest conclusion.

Dubai offers content creators a unique combination of tax advantages, modern infrastructure, and international networking. The numbers speak for themselves: Tax savings of 80% or more are realistic.

But—and this is important:

Dubai is not the right move for every creator. It requires financial stability, cultural flexibility, and a long-term outlook for your business.

When is Dubai the Right Next Step for You?

Based on my experience, I recommend Dubai if at least 4 of the following apply to you:

• ✓ Stable annual income over €150,000
• ✓ International business model
• ✓ Openness to new cultures and lifestyles
• ✓ Willingness to spend at least 183 days/year in Dubai
• ✓ Desire for tax optimization and asset building
• ✓ No strong family ties in Germany
• ✓ Interest in international business networking

Your Concrete Action Plan

If Dubai sounds interesting for you, I recommend this step-by-step approach:

Phase 1: Test (3–6 months)

1. Apply for remote work visa
2. Spend 3–6 months in Dubai
3. Use co-working spaces in Dubai Media City
4. Meet the local creator community
5. Test real living costs

Phase 2: Plan (6–12 months)

1. Detailed tax planning with German and Emirates advisors
2. Structure business model for Dubai setup
3. Plan your exit strategy from Germany
4. Clarify family and personal matters

Phase 3: Implement (12–18 months)

1. Carry out Dubai Media City setup
2. Proper exit from Germany
3. Fully relocate tax residence
4. Transfer business operations to Dubai

What You Can Do Right Now

Here are your next practical steps:

If you are seriously interested:

1. Run a detailed cost-benefit analysis
2. Find an experienced tax advisor with Dubai expertise
3. Research remote work visa requirements
4. Build network with other German creators in Dubai

If you’re unsure:

1. Visit Dubai for 2–3 weeks as a “research trip”
2. Calculate your potential tax savings
3. Evaluate alternative locations (Cyprus, Singapore, etc.)
4. Discuss your international plans with your family

My Personal Offer as Your Tax Mentor

As someone who has guided dozens of content creators through this process, I know the challenges and pitfalls.

If you want a professional assessment of your situation, I’m happy to have a strategic call with you. Not as a sales pitch, but as an honest evaluation if Dubai is the right fit for your creator business.

Final Thoughts

Dubai Media City has developed from a traditional media hub into a vibrant ecosystem for digital creators. The opportunities are real and the advantages substantial.

But never forget:

The best place is the one fitting your life, goals and values. Tax advantages alone don’t justify a life decision.

Think holistically. Consider not only finances but also quality of life, personal growth, and long-term goals.

Dubai can be a fantastic springboard for international creators—but only if it authentically suits you.

So: Dream big, plan carefully, and have the courage to forge new paths.

Your RMS

Frequently Asked Questions about Dubai Media City for Content Creators

Can I get a Dubai license as a German YouTuber without prior experience?

Yes, Dubai Media City accepts content creators at all experience levels. You do not need to be an established media company. Normally, a portfolio of your work and a clear business plan are enough. Financial proof is more important for the visa.

How long does the entire setup process really take?

Allow 3–4 months for the whole process, including license, visa, and bank account. The license application itself takes 2–3 weeks, but the visa process and banking can take longer. Also add 2–3 months for preparations in Germany.

Do I really have to spend 183 days a year in Dubai?

For tax residency in the UAE: yes. For German exit taxation, authorities check very closely if you have really moved your main center of life. 183 days is the minimum, but other factors like living situation and social ties are also considered.

Can I continue working with German business clients?

In principle yes, but consider tax aspects. German clients can continue to purchase services from your Dubai company. Watch out for permanent establishment risk and correct invoicing. Professional tax advice is essential here.

What happens with my German health insurance?

If you fully move, your German health insurance requirement ends. Youll need international or local UAE health coverage. Many German providers offer international policies. Expect to pay €2,000–5,000 per year for full coverage.

Are cryptocurrency earnings tax-free in Dubai?

Currently, yes, but the rules are evolving. The UAE has not yet set specific crypto tax regulations for individuals. Companies may be subject to corporate tax on trading activities. Document all transactions carefully for future compliance.

Can I move to Dubai as a parent with kids?

Absolutely. Dubai has excellent international schools and is very family-friendly. But plan for higher living costs: Tuition fees €15,000–40,000 per child per year. Many international families love living in Dubai; quality of life is high.

What if Dubai’s tax laws change?

Corporate tax was introduced in 2023, and further changes are possible. That’s why an exit strategy is important. Dubai usually “grandfathers” existing licenses, but you should keep alternative locations in mind and stay flexible.

Do I really need a local partner or agent?

You don’t need a partner, but I strongly recommend an experienced setup agent. The bureaucracy is complex and changing rules require local know-how. Costs: €3,000–8,000, but the investment saves time, stress, and usually money by avoiding mistakes.

Can I work in other GCC countries with a Dubai license?

No, each GCC country has its own license requirements. Your Dubai license only covers activities in the UAE. For projects in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, etc., you’ll need separate approvals or local partners. Dubai can, however, serve as a hub for the region.