Introduction: Move Your Business from Germany to Dubai
Are you planning to move your business from Germany to Dubai? With its dynamic economy, strategic location, and investor-friendly policies, Dubai has become one of the most attractive destinations for international entrepreneurs. Many business owners are now considering relocating their business from Germany to Dubai UAE to take advantage of tax benefits, global connectivity, and streamlined company formation processes. When comparing business setup in Germany vs Dubai, the UAE offers significant advantages such as zero personal income tax, simplified company registration procedures, and access to a thriving international market. The cost of company formation in UAE is often more affordable compared to European regulations, making it easier for businesses to expand quickly. Entrepreneurs looking for a low cost business setup in Dubai will find flexible packages, whether they prefer a free zone license or a mainland company setup.
If you want to move your Germany business to Dubai, understanding the cost of business license in Dubai and other requirements is crucial. Partnering with the best business setup consultant in Dubai ensures a smooth transition and compliance with UAE laws. By making this move, you can set up a profitable company in Dubai and enjoy long-term growth in a global hub.
Read Post: How to Setup Business in UAE?
Why Move Your Business from Germany to Dubai?
1. Strategic Global Location
Dubai is at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it an ideal hub for international trade. By moving your business from Germany to Dubai, you gain access to major global markets, fast-growing economies, and advanced logistics infrastructure.
2. Business-Friendly Environment
When comparing business setup in Germany vs Dubai, the UAE stands out for its investor-friendly regulations, simplified procedures, and flexible company structures. This makes relocating your business from Germany to Dubai UAE smoother and faster.
3. Tax Benefits
Dubai offers significant tax advantages, including zero personal income tax and attractive corporate structures. Many entrepreneurs prefer moving Germany business to Dubai to maximize profits and reinvest in growth without heavy tax burdens.
4. Diverse Market Opportunities
Dubai is a hub for industries like trade, real estate, tourism, e-commerce, and technology. Setting up a profitable company in Dubai allows you to explore a wide range of opportunities and connect with global investors and clients.
5. Low Cost Business Setup Options
Entrepreneurs looking for a low cost business setup in Dubai can choose from multiple free zones and mainland options that match their expansion goals. This flexibility makes it easier to move your business from Germany to Dubai successfully.
6. Professional Support and Consultancy
To ensure a smooth relocation, working with the best business setup consultant in Dubai is essential. Experts guide you through the cost of company formation in UAE, licensing requirements, and legal compliance, ensuring your transition is stress-free.
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Business Setup Comparison – Germany vs. Dubai (2025 Guide for Entrepreneurs)
| Metric / Topic | Germany | Dubai (UAE) |
|---|---|---|
| Headline framing | Business setup in Germany vs Dubai — well-regulated EU market, strong manufacturing base and social protections. | Move your business from Germany to Dubai — gateway to MENA & Asia, hub for trade, finance, tourism and logistics. |
| Economic size & recent trend (GDP) | Large advanced economy; Germany’s GDP and growth have been weak/moderately contracting in recent years (economic headwinds in 2023–2024). | Rapidly diversifying economy; UAE (Dubai major contributor) showing solid growth with strong non-oil sector expansion and positive growth forecasts into 2025. |
| GDP per capita (indicative) | High GDP per capita typical of advanced European economies (one of the higher levels in the OECD). | High GDP per capita for a Gulf economy; Dubai benefits from large services & tourism contribution boosting per-capita metrics. |
| Corporate tax regime | Corporate tax structure with national corporation tax (15%) plus solidarity surcharge and local trade taxes — effective combined rates commonly higher than headline 15% depending on municipality. | Federal corporate tax introduced (standard headline 9% for taxable income above threshold); many Dubai free zones continue to offer preferential 0% regimes subject to compliance conditions. |
| Personal income tax (relevance for expatriates & owners) | Progressive personal income tax (top marginal rates high — widely applied to residents); payroll taxation and social security contributions are significant. | Company formation (e.g., GmbH/UG) typically takes several weeks to a few months (notarisation, bank, commercial register, tax registration). Professional advisors can speed this but the process involves multiple steps. |
| Speed of company formation | Company formation (e.g., GmbH/UG) typically takes several weeks to a few months (notarisation, bank, commercial register, tax registration). Professional advisors can speed this but the process involves multiple steps. | Dubai free-zone company formation can be very fast (often measured in days to 1–2 weeks from application to license in many zones), while mainland setups vary but are generally quicker and more streamlined than many European processes. |
| Regulatory & compliance burden | Strong regulatory oversight, EU rules, labour protections, VAT compliance, environmental and sector-specific regulations — high compliance standards but predictable legal framework. | Investor-friendly reform agenda, single federal CT rules, free zones with streamlined one-stop-shops; regulation can be business-friendly but varies by free zone vs mainland. |
| Market access & trade links | Excellent EU market access, deep local supply chains (manufacturing, automotive, engineering); ideal for companies targeting EU customers and suppliers. | Strategic gateway connecting Europe, Africa, and Asia; major air & sea logistics, re-export hub — great for international trade expansion and regional distribution. |
| Labor market & talent | Highly skilled workforce, strong engineering/manufacturing talent, rigid labour laws and social protections (higher overall employer costs). | Large expatriate talent pool, flexible hiring of international staff, growing local professional services. Visa/work-permit systems tailored to attract international talent. |
| Business types & best fits | Best for companies that need access to EU market, advanced manufacturing, R&D, engineering, and clients who require EU presence. | Best for trading, logistics, tourism, fintech, e-commerce, regional headquarters, and service companies that benefit from tax-efficient structures and global connectivity. |
| Incentives & free zones | Germany: sector-specific grants, R&D incentives, regional development programs; generally targeted and competitive. | Dubai: numerous free zones offering 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of profits, streamlined licensing — especially attractive when you move your Germany business to Dubai. |
| Residency & visas (relevance when you move to Dubai from Germany) | Standard EU residency rules apply for staff in Germany; residence/immigration tightly regulated for third-country nationals. | Residence visas commonly available through company formation, employment visas, investor visas, and various long-term options tailored to entrepreneurs and skilled professionals. |
| Access to finance & banking | Deep financial markets, broad access to bank financing, venture capital but often conservative lending for startups; EU oversight on banking. | Strong banking sector with international banks present, focused support for trade and corporate banking; growing VC/PE and startup funding environment in Dubai. |
| Perception & brand | Highly reputable, stable, recognized for quality and reliability — “Made in Germany” remains strong. | Perceived as dynamic, growth-oriented, and business-friendly — strong international hub branding for the MENA region. |
| Summary | If you’re comparing business setup in Germany vs Dubai, Germany wins on EU market depth, social infrastructure and manufacturing clusters. | If your goal is to move your business from Germany to Dubai to access tax efficiency, rapid setup, and regional trade routes — Dubai provides strong incentives and streamlined pathways for many business types. |
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Quick takeaways
- Germany = established EU market access, strong protections, higher regulatory/ employment costs, excellent engineering/manufacturing talent. IMF
- Dubai = rapid, investor-friendly business setup, no personal income tax, competitive corporate tax framework for many businesses, and major regional trade/finance hub — ideal to move your Germany business to Dubai for regional expansion. UAE Official Portal
Steps to Move Your Business from Germany to Dubai
Relocating your company requires careful planning, legal compliance, and the right support. If you are considering moving your Germany business to Dubai, following the correct process ensures a smooth transition. Here are the essential steps to setup your business in Dubai UAE successfully:
1. Assess Business Goals and Choose the Right Structure
Before you move your business from Germany to Dubai, evaluate whether a mainland or free zone setup best suits your goals. A mainland company gives you access to the local UAE market, while free zones offer global trading benefits.
2. Select a Business Activity and License Type
Decide the nature of your operations and obtain the right license — such as commercial, professional, or industrial. Understanding the cost of business license in Dubai and matching it with your activity is vital for compliance.
3. Register Your Company and Trade Name
To complete the cost of company formation in UAE, you’ll need to register your business name with the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the respective free zone authority. This step secures your company’s identity in Dubai.
4. Arrange Office Space and Business Location
Finding the right location helps establish credibility. For a low cost business setup in Dubai, entrepreneurs often choose free zone flexi-desks or serviced offices, while mainland companies may opt for central offices to attract clients.
5. Apply for Visas and Residency
When you move to Dubai from Germany, applying for investor or employee visas is essential. Dubai’s visa system is designed to support business owners, staff, and families relocating from abroad.
6. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Once your company is registered, set up a corporate bank account in Dubai. This helps in seamless financial transactions when you relocate your business from Germany to Dubai UAE.
7. Seek Expert Consultancy and Ongoing Support
Working with the best business setup consultant in Dubai ensures you comply with legal requirements, licensing regulations, and company setup procedures. Their expertise helps you setup a profitable company in Dubai with minimal challenges.
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Cost of Setting Up a Business in Dubai from Germany
When planning to move your business from Germany to Dubai, understanding the cost structure is crucial. The cost of company formation in UAE is often more flexible compared to Europe, with both mainland and free zone options available. Below is a detailed breakdown of estimated costs for both Dubai and Germany, highlighting why many entrepreneurs choose to relocate their business from Germany to Dubai UAE.
Dubai Mainland Trade License Costs
Setting up a mainland business in Dubai allows full access to the UAE market without restrictions. This option is ideal if you want to setup a profitable company in Dubai that operates both locally and internationally.
| License Type | Cost (AED) | Cost (EUR) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional License | AED 10,405 | €2,394 | Suitable for service-based businesses (e.g., consulting, IT, e-commerce). |
| Commercial License | AED 14,905 | €3,428 | Best for trading, import/export, and product-related businesses. |
Mainland vs Freezone Company Setup in UAE: Cost Comparison
UAE Free Zone Trade License Costs
A Free Zone setup offers advantages like 100% foreign ownership, simplified registration, and tax exemptions. Many entrepreneurs prefer this for low cost business setup in Dubai.
| Free Zone | License Cost (AED) | Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| ANC | AED 4,888 | €1,124 |
| SRTIP | AED 5,500 | €1,265 |
| AJMAN | AED 5,555 | €1,277 |
| SHAMS | AED 5,750 | €1,323 |
| SPC | AED 5,750 | €1,323 |
| RAKEZ | AED 6,000 | €1,380 |
| JAFZA | AED 9,000 | €2,070 |
| MEYDAN | AED 12,500 | €2,875 |
| DUQE | AED 12,500 | €2,875 |
| IFZA | AED 12,900 | €2,967 |
| DAFZA | AED 25,000 | €5,750 |
| DIFC | AED 30,000 | €6,900 |
| DMCC | AED 33,000 | €7,590 |
Estimated Other Business Setup Costs in Dubai
When you setup your business in Dubai UAE, apart from the license, you may need to consider additional expenses:
- Office Space & Flexi Desk Options: Costs vary depending on whether you choose mainland or free zone. For a low cost business setup in Dubai, flexi-desks are the most affordable option.
- Visa & Immigration Costs: Investors and employees require residency visas when you move to Dubai from Germany.
- Corporate Bank Account: Required for financial operations once your Germany business is relocated to Dubai.
- Legal Documentation & Approvals: Costs depend on activity type and chosen structure.
Working with the best business setup consultant in Dubai ensures these steps are handled efficiently.
Calculate your business setup cost.
Estimated Other Business Setup Costs in Dubai (When Moving from Germany)
When you relocate your Germany business to Dubai UAE, apart from the license, there are additional costs to consider. These vary depending on business activity, location (mainland vs free zone), and structure.
| Setup Requirement | Estimated Cost (AED) | Estimated Cost (EUR) | Description & Keywords |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trade Name Registration | AED 700 – AED 1,000 | €161 – €230 | Mandatory step when you setup your business in Dubai UAE; secures your company identity. |
| Initial Approval & Documentation | AED 1,000 – AED 1,500 | €230 – €345 | Legal approvals required during the cost of company formation in UAE process. |
| Office Space / Flexi Desk | AED 8,000 – AED 15,000 | €1,840 – €3,450 | Essential for both mainland and free zones. Ideal for low cost business setup in Dubai. |
| Immigration Card & Establishment Card | AED 2,000 – AED 3,000 | €460 – €690 | Required to sponsor employees and obtain visas when you move to Dubai from Germany. |
| Investor / Partner Visa | AED 4,000 – AED 6,000 (per visa) | €920 – €1,380 | Needed for owners relocating from Germany; part of relocating your business from Germany to Dubai UAE. |
| Employee Visas | AED 3,000 – AED 5,000 (per visa) | €690 – €1,150 | Staff visas for expanding operations after you move your Germany business to Dubai. |
| Medical Test & Emirates ID | AED 1,000 – AED 1,500 | €230 – €345 | Mandatory for residency visa issuance in Dubai. |
| Corporate Bank Account Setup | AED 2,500 – AED 5,000 | €575 – €1,150 | Essential for financial operations after the cost of company license in Dubai is completed. |
| Other Legal & Administrative Fees | AED 2,000 – AED 4,000 | €460 – €920 | Includes notarization, translations, attestations, and government charges. |
By comparing the cost of business license in Dubai with the cost of company formation in Germany, it’s clear that Dubai offers a faster, more flexible, and tax-friendly environment. Whether you choose mainland or free zone, relocating ensures you can setup a profitable company in Dubai and enjoy long-term growth.
Conclusion
Relocating and establishing your company in the UAE is a strategic move for entrepreneurs seeking global growth. When comparing business setup in Germany vs Dubai, it is clear that Dubai offers unmatched advantages such as zero personal income tax, streamlined licensing, flexible company structures, and access to global markets. The cost of company formation in UAE is often lower and more flexible than European regulations, making it easier to launch or expand operations. Whether you are looking for a low cost business setup in Dubai or planning to establish a large-scale corporate entity, the emirate provides both mainland and free zone options to meet your goals.
By choosing to move your business from Germany to Dubai, you not only benefit from tax-friendly policies and global connectivity but also position your company in a future-ready economy. With the right guidance, you can setup a profitable company in Dubai and secure long-term business success.
How Infibiz Can Help You Move Your Business from Germany to Dubai
At Infibiz, we specialize in making the process of moving Germany business to Dubai seamless and stress-free. As the best business setup consultant in Dubai, we guide you through every step — from choosing the right license type and handling the cost of business license in Dubai, to securing visas, office space, and bank accounts.
Book Free Consultation with Infibiz’s Experts.
Our team ensures your relocating business from Germany to Dubai UAE is done with full compliance, transparency, and efficiency. Whether you need a low cost business setup in Dubai or a premium corporate solution, Infibiz customizes strategies to match your business vision. With our expertise, you can confidently setup your business in Dubai UAE and enjoy a smooth transition into one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
