Introduction: Relocating Your Business from Singapore to Dubai UAE
Are you planning to move your business from Singapore to Dubai in 2025? With Dubai rapidly becoming a global hub for commerce, innovation, and investment, many entrepreneurs and established companies are choosing to relocate their operations from Southeast Asia to the UAE. This strategic move is driven by Dubai’s business-friendly policies, world-class infrastructure, and expanding access to global markets. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest business license in Dubai, seeking a low-cost business setup in Dubai, or evaluating the benefits of business setup in Singapore vs Dubai, this shift can offer long-term advantages. From significantly lower corporate taxes to simplified regulations and 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, Dubai is positioning itself as the preferred destination for business growth.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about relocating your business from Singapore to Dubai UAE, including the cost of company formation in the UAE, the cost of starting a business in Dubai, and how to set up a profitable company in Dubai. Partnering with the best business setup consultant in Dubai can make the transition seamless, ensuring full compliance with legal requirements while maximizing your strategic advantage in the Middle East.
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Why Move Your Business from Singapore to Dubai?
Relocating your business from Singapore to Dubai in 2025 offers strategic advantages for companies seeking expansion, lower operational burdens, and access to global markets. Dubai has emerged as a preferred destination for business relocation, especially for entrepreneurs aiming to set up a profitable company in the UAE.
1. Access to Emerging Markets
Dubai’s location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa provides unmatched connectivity to emerging markets. With world-class logistics infrastructure, businesses can easily reach over 2 billion consumers across the MENA, South Asia, and East Africa regions.
2. Pro-Business Regulatory Environment
Unlike many other regions, Dubai offers a streamlined business setup process with investor-friendly regulations. Foreign investors enjoy full ownership in many sectors, and government support makes the company formation process highly efficient. This makes business setup in Dubai more accessible than ever for those moving from Singapore.
3. Lower Tax Burden
One of the most compelling reasons to move your business from Singapore to Dubai is the tax environment. Dubai offers a competitive edge with its low corporate tax rates and no personal income tax, creating a more profitable and sustainable business model.
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4. Diverse Economic Opportunities
Dubai’s diversified economy spans across real estate, finance, tourism, logistics, tech, and healthcare. Entrepreneurs from Singapore can tap into a broader range of industries and benefit from the UAE’s rapidly growing digital and e-commerce sectors.
5. World-Class Infrastructure
Dubai offers ultra-modern office spaces, cutting-edge telecom infrastructure, smart city services, and robust transportation networks. Businesses relocating from Singapore to Dubai can operate in a technologically advanced environment with reliable government support.
6. Quality of Life and Talent Availability
Dubai’s high standard of living, safety, and global talent pool make it a top destination for professionals and entrepreneurs. Its multicultural society and business ecosystem attract experienced professionals from around the world, ensuring access to a skilled workforce.
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Business Environment Comparison: Singapore vs. Dubai (2025)
| Category | Singapore | Dubai, UAE |
|---|---|---|
| Global Market Access | Strong presence in Southeast Asia and Asia-Pacific | Strategic access to Asia, Africa, and Europe (2.2B+ consumers) |
| Ownership Structure | Foreign ownership restricted in certain industries | 100% foreign ownership allowed in most sectors (mainland and free zones) |
| Business Registration Process | Efficient, but industry-specific permits may take time | Fast-track setup with mainland and free zone options for low-cost business |
| Corporate Tax Rate | 17% flat rate | 9% corporate tax (for eligible entities); 0% personal income tax |
| Personal Income Tax | Progressive up to 22% | 0% – no personal income tax for residents and foreign entrepreneurs |
| Minimum Paid-Up Capital Requirement | SGD 1 (nominal capital allowed) | AED 0 to AED 50,000 (varies by activity and jurisdiction) |
| Business Sectors Supported | Finance, biotech, manufacturing, logistics | Tech, logistics, e-commerce, real estate, tourism, finance, healthcare |
| Ease of Doing Business Rank (2025) | Among Top 5 globally | Ranked Top 10 globally |
| Business Setup Time | 3–7 working days | 1–5 working days (depending on license type) |
| Residency Options for Business Owners | Dependent on business type and visa eligibility | Investor visas, golden visas, and multiple residency options available |
| Office Requirements | Physical office required for most business types | Flexi-desk and virtual office allowed in many free zones |
| Digital Government Services | Highly digital but sector-dependent | Fully integrated smart services for licensing, renewals, and immigration |
| Free Zones Availability | Limited options, mostly general industrial zones | 40+ specialized free zones for every sector, ideal for company formation in UAE |
| Cost Transparency & Scalability | Transparent but often sector-specific | Modular licensing structure with options for low-cost business setup in Dubai |
| Talent and Workforce | Skilled local and expat workforce | Multinational, multilingual workforce with no restrictions on hiring expats |
| Lifestyle & Quality of Life | Ranked among top expat destinations in Asia | World-class healthcare, education, safety, and high-standard expat lifestyle |
| Best Business Setup Consultant Support | Widely available with regulated agents | Large ecosystem of the best business setup consultants in Dubai available |
Relocating your business from Singapore to Dubai in 2025 offers more than just financial efficiency—it opens doors to new markets, innovative ecosystems, and global competitiveness. With the right guidance, you can set up your business in Dubai and unlock its full potential in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
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Steps to Move Your Business from Singapore to Dubai
Relocating your business from Singapore to Dubai in 2025 can be a strategic move that enhances your global reach, lowers operational burdens, and positions your company in a business-friendly environment. Follow these essential steps to move your business from Singapore to Dubai UAE and set up a profitable company in Dubai.
1. Evaluate the Business Setup Structure in Dubai
Start by identifying the right jurisdiction for your business: mainland, free zone, or offshore. Each has unique advantages based on your business activities and ownership goals. Many foreign investors prefer free zone business setup for full ownership and streamlined licensing, while others opt for mainland business licences in Dubai for greater flexibility.
2. Choose the Right Business Activity and License Type
Dubai offers a wide range of licenses including commercial, professional, industrial, and e-commerce licenses. Choose the one that aligns with your current operations in Singapore to ensure compliance with UAE regulations. This step is crucial for smooth company formation in UAE.
3. Reserve Your Trade Name and Initial Approvals
Select and reserve a unique business name with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or the relevant free zone authority. Obtain initial approval for your business activity to proceed with relocation and setup.
4. Finalize Legal Structure and Documentation
Prepare the necessary documents such as passport copies, business plans, board resolutions, and incorporation certificates from your Singapore entity. These are required for relocating your business from Singapore to Dubai and registering your company with the UAE authorities.
5. Partner with a Business Setup Consultant in Dubai
Work with the best business setup consultant in Dubai to navigate local regulations, legal requirements, and government procedures. A reliable consultant will ensure a seamless transition from Singapore to Dubai while maintaining compliance and minimizing delays.
Calculate your business setup cost.
6. Set Up Your Office or Virtual Workspace
Depending on your license type, secure a physical office space, co-working desk, or virtual office. Dubai offers flexible workspace solutions that align with both low-cost business setup in Dubai and premium operations.
7. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Once your company is registered, open a corporate bank account in Dubai to manage business transactions. UAE banks require specific documentation, so it’s beneficial to handle this step with professional guidance.
8. Apply for Residency and Employee Visas
Apply for UAE residency for yourself and your team through investor or employment visas. This allows you to move to Dubai from Singapore and legally reside and work in the UAE while expanding your operations.
9. Transfer and Launch Operations in Dubai
Relocate your assets, intellectual property, and key business operations to Dubai. Leverage the UAE’s strategic location and modern infrastructure to re-launch and grow your business in the region.
10. Scale and Expand
Once established, explore regional partnerships, participate in trade shows, and leverage government incentives to scale your business. Dubai’s ecosystem supports innovation, growth, and global expansion across multiple sectors.
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Cost of Setting Up a Business in Dubai from Singapore (2025)
If you’re planning to move your business from Singapore to Dubai, understanding the business license options and associated costs is essential for proper planning. Whether you’re setting up in the Dubai mainland or a UAE free zone, each structure offers unique benefits for businesses relocating from Singapore.
Exchange Rate (May 2025): 1 AED = 0.35 SGD
Dubai Mainland Trade License Costs
Setting up a mainland business in Dubai allows you to operate freely across the UAE without geographical or sectoral limitations. This is a great choice for businesses looking to enter both local and online marketplaces such as Noon.
| License Type | Cost (AED) | Cost (SGD) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional License | AED 10,405 | SGD 3,641.75 | Ideal for service-based businesses such as consulting, IT, or design firms. |
| Commercial License | AED 14,905 | SGD 5,216.75 | Suitable for businesses engaged in trading, import/export, and product sales. |
A mainland license is perfect for entrepreneurs planning to setup a profitable company in Dubai and sell products/services both online and offline.
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UAE Free Zone Trade License Costs
For those who want 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, and simpler setup, free zones in Dubai and other emirates provide an excellent option. These zones are especially suitable for startups and international businesses moving from Singapore to Dubai.
| Free Zone | License Cost (AED) | License Cost (SGD) |
|---|---|---|
| ANC | AED 4,888 | SGD 1,710.80 |
| SRTIP | AED 5,500 | SGD 1,925.00 |
| SHAMS | AED 5,750 | SGD 2,012.50 |
| SPC | AED 5,750 | SGD 2,012.50 |
| RAKEZ | AED 6,000 | SGD 2,100.00 |
| JAFZA | AED 9,000 | SGD 3,150.00 |
| Meydan | AED 12,500 | SGD 4,375.00 |
| DUQE | AED 12,500 | SGD 4,375.00 |
| IFZA | AED 12,900 | SGD 4,515.00 |
| DAFZA | AED 25,000 | SGD 8,750.00 |
| DIFC | AED 30,000 | SGD 10,500.00 |
| DMCC | AED 33,000 | SGD 11,550.00 |
Calculate your business setup cost.
Free zones are ideal for entrepreneurs looking for low-cost business setup in Dubai with flexibility and ownership control. They are also preferred by many businesses relocating from Singapore to Dubai due to simplified compliance procedures.
Which Setup Is Right for You?
- Choose Mainland if you want to trade directly within the UAE, partner with local companies, or sell in physical stores and platforms like Noon.
- Choose a Free Zone if you’re focused on digital, service-based, or international operations and want 100% foreign ownership with fewer restrictions.
No matter your choice, working with the best business setup consultant in Dubai can help ensure a smooth transition and full legal compliance.
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Conclusion
Relocating your Singapore business to Dubai in 2025 presents a strategic opportunity to expand into global markets, benefit from a pro-business environment, and enjoy tax advantages. Dubai’s well-regulated ecosystem, 100% foreign ownership options, and access to international trade hubs make it a preferred destination for entrepreneurs seeking to set up a profitable company in Dubai. Whether you choose a mainland business licence in Dubai or a free zone business setup, the UAE offers unmatched flexibility, infrastructure, and scalability compared to Singapore.
If you’re looking to tap into high-growth sectors and secure a low-cost business setup in Dubai, now is the ideal time to make the move. The process is seamless when guided by the right experts.
How Infibiz Can Help You Move Your Business to Dubai
Infibiz is the best business setup consultant in Dubai, specializing in helping companies from Singapore navigate UAE regulations, licensing, and relocation. From selecting the right structure to securing your business license and visas, Infibiz ensures a hassle-free journey to setup your business in Dubai UAE. Let us handle the complexities while you focus on growing your business in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
