Dubai has firmly established itself as one of the world’s most dynamic global business hubs, attracting companies and investors from every corner of the planet. In recent years, an increasing number of French entrepreneurs and established firms have chosen the emirate as their gateway to international expansion. The combination of a tax-free environment for most activities, full foreign ownership rights, world-class infrastructure, and strategic positioning between Europe, Asia, and Africa makes the decision compelling.
For European investors in general and French business owners in particular, Dubai offers not only financial advantages but also long-term residency options and a lifestyle that blends luxury with efficiency. Whether you run a tech start-up, a luxury brand, a consultancy, or a trading company, the opportunity to relocate business to Dubai from France has never been more straightforward.
This comprehensive 2026 guide walks you through every practical step required to successfully move your French business to Dubai.
Why Move Your French Business to Dubai?
The decision to relocate a company is never taken lightly, yet the incentives Dubai presents are difficult to ignore, especially when compared with the regulatory and fiscal landscape in France.
0% Personal & Corporate Tax Benefits
In most free zones and for qualifying income, Dubai maintains a 0% corporate tax rate, with only a modest 9% rate applying to profits above AED 375,000 for mainland companies since 2023. Personal income remains completely untaxed. French entrepreneurs moving their operations can dramatically increase net profitability and reinvestment capacity.
100% Foreign Ownership
Since 2021, the UAE has removed the requirement for a local sponsor in more than 1,000 business activities on the mainland, and free zones have always allowed full ownership. French citizens can now own their Dubai company outright, retaining complete control over strategy and profits.
Easy Company Setup & Residency Visa
The entire incorporation process can be completed remotely in many cases, and obtaining an investor residency visa is tied directly to the company license. This provides immediate access to long-term residence for the owner and family members.
Access to Middle East, Africa & Asia Markets
Dubai’s location offers same-day flights to one-third of the world’s population. French companies in fashion, food and beverage, technology, and professional services find rapid expansion routes into high-growth emerging markets.
Strong Banking & Investor Protection
The UAE ranks among the top globally for ease of doing business and boasts a robust, well-regulated banking sector. Investor rights are protected through international arbitration agreements and bilateral treaties with France.
Types of Business Structures in Dubai for French Investors
Choosing the right legal form is critical when you decide to move French business to Dubai. Each structure carries different implications for ownership, taxation, and operational flexibility.
Mainland Company
Registered with the Department of Economic Development (DED), mainland companies can trade freely across the UAE without restrictions and bid on government contracts. Full foreign ownership is now permitted in most sectors.
Free Zone Company
Free zones remain the most popular choice for Dubai business setup for Europeans because they guarantee 100% ownership, zero import/export duties, and full profit repatriation. Over 40 specialised free zones cater to specific industries.
Offshore Company
Primarily used for international trading or asset holding, offshore entities (typically in Jebel Ali or RAK ICC) do not require physical presence and cannot conduct local UAE business but offer privacy and tax-planning advantages.
Branch or Representative Office
Existing French companies can open a branch (full commercial activity) or representative office (marketing only) without creating a new legal entity. This route is ideal for large corporations testing the market.
How to Relocate French Business to Dubai?
The process of Dubai company formation for French citizens is streamlined and largely digital in 2026.
Step 1 – Choose Business Activity and Company Structure
Identify the exact activity from the official DED or free-zone lists (over 2,100 activities available). Decide whether mainland or free zone best matches your goals.
Step 2 – Select Business Location
Choose between mainland or a specific free zone based on activity and client base. Popular free zones offer packages that include licensing and visa quotas.
Step 3 – Reserve Trade Name
Submit three name options through the online portal. Names must end with the legal form (e.g., “LLC”) and respect UAE naming conventions.
Step 4 – Apply for Initial Approval
Receive a confirmation from the authorities that your activity is permitted and that no objections exist.
Step 5 – Prepare MOA/LSA (if required)
Draft the Memorandum of Association or Local Service Agent agreement (for certain mainland professional licenses). Notarisation can be done remotely via UAE embassies or approved channels.
Step 6 – Get Office Space / Flexi Desk
Most packages include a flexi-desk or shared office; physical leased space is required only for certain mainland activities.
Step 7 – Submit Documents & Obtain Trade License
Upload all documents via the unified portal. Licenses are usually issued within 3–7 working days.
Step 8 – Apply for UAE Residency Visa
Once the license is issued, apply for investor/partner visas (2–10 years validity depending on investment size).
Step 9 – Open Business Bank Account
With license and visas in hand, schedule bank meetings (many can now be completed virtually).
Step 10 – Start Operations
Import equipment, hire staff, and begin trading immediately after receiving the establishment card and labor file.
Documents Required to Relocate a French Business to Dubai
The documentation list is straightforward for French citizens:
- Valid passport copies (owner and shareholders)
- Recent proof of address (utility bill < 3 months)
- Detailed business plan (especially for regulated activities)
- Existing company incorporation documents and board resolution authorising the Dubai move
- Audited financial statements and current trade license (for branch or relocating company)
- No-Objection Certificate from current sponsor (if applicable)
- Notarised Power of Attorney if appointing a local service agent
All French documents must be attested by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the UAE Embassy in Paris, and then legalised by UAE MOFA (or use the new remote attestation platforms launched in 2024).
Cost of Moving a Business to Dubai for French Entrepreneurs
Costs in 2026 remain competitive and transparent.
Company License Fees
Free zone packages start from AED 12,500–18,000 for a zero-visa package; mainland licenses range from AED 15,000–35,000 depending on activity.
Visa Fees
Investor visa and medical/Emirates ID cost approximately AED 3,500–5,000 per person.
Office / Flexi-desk Rent
Included in most free-zone packages; physical offices start at AED 25,000 annually.
Bank Account Opening Deposit
Many banks waive minimum balances for new companies; others require AED 50,000–250,000 for premium accounts.
Optional – PRO & Branding Costs
Professional PRO services and initial marketing can add AED 8,000–20,000.
Total first-year investment for a standard free-zone company with two visas typically falls between AED 35,000 and AED 75,000.
Best Free Zones for French Businesses in Dubai
French entrepreneurs Dubai gravitate toward zones that match their industries:
- IFZA Free Zone – cost-effective general trading and consultancy licenses
- DMCC – luxury goods, commodities, and crypto businesses
- Meydan Free Zone – affordable entry with hotel-style facilities
- Dubai South – logistics and aviation-related companies
- DAFZA – high-end trading and light manufacturing
- Dubai Internet City / Dubai Media City – tech, digital, and creative industries
Free zones remain ideal for European companies because of guaranteed tax exemptions for 15–50 years (renewable) and streamlined customs procedures.
Opening a Corporate Bank Account in Dubai
Banks require the original trade license, MOA, share certificates, passport copies, and proof of address. Compliance interviews are now often conducted via video call. Approval typically takes 5–15 working days, faster with Emirates NBD, Mashreq NeoBiz, or digital banks such as Wio and Zand.
Tax System Comparison – France vs Dubai
| Tax Category | France | Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Income Tax | Up to 45% + social charges | 0% |
| Corporate Tax | 25% (standard) | 0%–9% (qualifying free zone 0%) |
| VAT | 20% | 5% |
| Dividend Tax | Up to 30% | 0% |
| Capital Gains Tax | Up to 34.5% | 0% |
- Investor Visa (2–3 years renewable)
- Golden Visa (10 years) – requires minimum AED 2 million investment in property or AED 1 million paid-up capital in certain cases
- Partner Visa – issued proportionally to shareholding
- Employment Visa – for staff hired locally or transferred
Family sponsorship is immediate and includes spouse, children under 25, and parents in some cases.
Challenges When Moving a Business from France to Dubai
Cultural adaptation, understanding Arabic-language contracts (even when bilingual), and navigating strict banking compliance remain the main hurdles. Selecting the wrong legal structure can limit future growth, while underestimating initial compliance costs sometimes surprises first-time movers.
How Bizinvestfirm Can Help
One Hub Partners provides end-to-end support for French companies: from activity selection and free-zone comparison to license issuance, visa processing, bank introduction, and ongoing PRO services. Their bilingual French–English team eliminates language barriers and ensures compliance at every stage.
Conclusion
Moving your French business to Dubai in 2026 offers an unparalleled combination of tax efficiency, full ownership, strategic location, and lifestyle benefits. The process has been deliberately simplified to welcome international talent and capital. For French entrepreneurs seeking growth beyond Europe’s borders, Dubai represents not just a relocation but a genuine competitive advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can French citizens own 100% of a company in Dubai?
Yes. Since the 2021 amendments, French citizens enjoy 100% ownership in more than 1,000 mainland activities and always in free zones.
How long does it take to move a business to Dubai?
Complete setup, including license and visas, can be achieved in 7–21 days if documents are ready. Remote incorporation is standard.
Can I open a French company branch in Dubai?
Absolutely. A branch of your existing French SARL or SAS can be registered in 10–20 days with minimal additional capital requirements.
What are the banking requirements for foreigners?
Valid trade license, passport, proof of address, and business plan. Most banks now accept remote onboarding for EU nationals.
Is Dubai tax-free for French businesses?
Qualifying free-zone companies remain 0% corporate tax for 50 years. Mainland companies pay 9% only on profits above AED 375,000, with generous deductions.
Can I relocate employees from France to Dubai?
Yes. Once the company is licensed, you may sponsor employment visas for existing staff. Golden Visa routes are also available for key managers.
For personalised guidance on how to start business in Dubai EU investors trust, contact BizInvestFirm today. Their expert consultants have assisted hundreds of French companies successfully establish operations in the UAE since 2012. Schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward your Dubai expansion.