In an increasingly interconnected world, the dream of launching a successful business knows no borders. For ambitious Indians with an entrepreneurial spirit, the question of “Which country should I choose to start my business?” is essential.
From ease of doing business to access to capital and a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem, the right country can make all the difference. And when it comes to finding the ideal destination for Indian entrepreneurs, Dubai, UAE stands out as a top choice.
With its strategic location, business-friendly policies, and thriving economy, Dubai offers Indian entrepreneurs a wealth of opportunities to turn their business dreams into reality.
So, let’s explore more why Dubai, UAE is the perfect country for Indians looking to start a business and the advantages it offers for entrepreneurs.
Why Your Business Should Go International?
The Indian entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well. Indians are natural-born entrepreneurs, with a strong desire to start their own businesses and make their mark on the world. This entrepreneurial spirit is evident in the number of start-ups that are being launched in India every year.
In fact, India is now home to the third-largest number of unicorns (private companies valued at over $1 billion) in the world.
This entrepreneurial spirit is also being driven by the desire to expand and invest in foreign markets. Indian businesses are increasingly looking to expand their operations beyond India’s borders.
This is due to a number of factors, including the growing size and affluence of the global middle class, the increasing ease of doing business internationally, and the availability of government incentives for businesses that invest overseas.
There are many benefits to expanding your business in the global market. These benefits include:
- Access to new markets and customers
- Increased revenue and profits
- Diversification of risk
- Learning from new cultures and markets
- Gaining a competitive advantage
If you are an Indian entrepreneur with a global vision, then expanding your business in the global market is a great way to achieve your goals.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Country for Business
Here are key elements that Indians, or any global entrepreneurs, should weigh when choosing a country for their business expansion:
1. Legal and Regulatory Environment
Understanding the legal framework in a potential host country is essential. Favorable business laws and regulations can streamline processes and protect your business interests. On the other hand, complex or restrictive regulations can impede growth.
2. Tax regime
The tax regime of a country is also important to consider. You need to make sure that the taxes in the country are not too high and that there are no hidden costs.
3. Political stability and risk
The political stability of a country is also an important factor to consider. You don’t want to invest in a country that is politically unstable or at risk of war or other civil unrest.
4. Ease of Doing Business
A country’s ease of doing business index is a valuable metric to evaluate. It encompasses factors like the simplicity of starting a business, obtaining permits, and dealing with contracts and property rights. A business-friendly environment can save time and resources.
5. Infrastructure
The infrastructure of a country is also important to consider. You need to make sure that the country has good roads, ports, airports, and other infrastructure that your business needs to operate.
6. Intellectual property protection
The intellectual property protection in a country is also important to consider. You need to make sure that your patents, trademarks, and other intellectual property are protected in the country.
7. Market size and growth potential
The size and growth potential of the market is one of the most important factors to consider. You want to choose a country with a large and growing population that has the potential to be a good customer for your products or services.
Dubai, UAE – A Perfect Place for Indian Entrepreneurs
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), especially Dubai, is one of the best countries for Indian entrepreneurs to start a business easily.
The number of registered businesses has been growing steadily in recent years, as Dubai has become a more attractive place to do business. Not only this, but Dubai also attracted over US$14 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2022. This makes Dubai one of the top FDI destinations in the world.
There are also over 50 free zones in Dubai. Free zones offer a number of benefits to businesses, such as 100% foreign ownership, a tax-friendly environment, and simplified visa and residency procedures.
Dubai is a very cosmopolitan city with a large Indian community. This can make it easier for Indian entrepreneurs to find the resources and support they need to start and grow their businesses.
Why Choose Dubai, UAE to Grow Your Business?
Here are some of the reasons why Dubai is considered to be one of the best countries for business:
1. Business-Friendly Regulations and Policies
Dubai is renowned for its business-friendly policies, which facilitate company formation and operation. The government has implemented several initiatives to streamline business setup processes, reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
2. A stable political environment and low crime rate
The UAE is a stable and safe country with a low crime rate. This makes it an attractive place to start a business, as you can be confident that your investment is safe.
3. A pro-business government
The UAE government is pro-business and is committed to attracting foreign investment. This means that there are a number of incentives available to businesses, such as tax breaks and waiving of import duties.
4. 100% business ownership
Businesses in Dubai can have 100% foreign ownership, which is not the case in many other countries. This gives businesses more flexibility and control.
5. Free zones
There are many free zones in Dubai where businesses can operate with 100% foreign ownership and lower tax rates. This makes it attractive for foreign investors to set up shop in Dubai.
6. Simple visa and residency procedures
Dubai has relatively simple visa and residency procedures for businesses and entrepreneurs. This makes it easy for businesses to bring in the necessary staff and talent.
7. Proximity to major markets
Dubai is located in a strategic location between Europe, Africa, and Asia. This makes it a good base for businesses that want to target these markets.
8. Excellent infrastructure
Dubai has excellent infrastructure, including world-class airports, roads, and telecommunications. This makes it easy for businesses to operate and grow in Dubai.
9. Tax Benefits and Incentives for Entrepreneurs
Dubai’s tax regime is a major draw for investors. The little corporate income tax after a certain limit and the absence of personal income tax makes it an attractive destination for businesses seeking to maximize profits.
10. A skilled workforce
Dubai has a skilled workforce that is fluent in English. This makes it easy for businesses to communicate with their employees and customers.
How to Start a Business in Dubai as an Indian Entrepreneur
Step 1: Choose the right business structure
There are several different business structures available in Dubai, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to choose the right structure for your specific business needs. Some popular options for Indian entrepreneurs include:
- Free Zone Company: A free zone company is a business that is registered in a special economic zone (SEZ) outside of the UAE mainland. Free zone companies enjoy a number of benefits, such as 100% foreign ownership, and no personal income tax.
- Mainland Company: A Mainland company is a business that is registered in the UAE mainland. Mainland companies have more limited benefits than free zone companies, but they may be a better option for businesses that need to conduct business with the UAE government or other onshore entities.
Step 2: Choose a unique name
Select a unique and permissible trade name for your business and get it approved by the relevant authorities.
Step 3: Apply for a License
All foreign nationals who wish to work or live in Dubai must obtain a visa and work permit. Depending on the type of business you are starting, you will need to obtain certain licenses and permits from the relevant government authorities such as the Department of Economic Development (DED).
Step 4: Secure office space
If you are opening a physical store, you will need to lease or purchase premises in a suitable location. You will also need to obtain the necessary approvals from the local authorities.
Step 5: Open a corporate account
Once you have your visa and work permit, you will need to open a bank account in Dubai. This will allow you to receive payments from customers and suppliers, and to pay your employees and other expenses.
Step 6: Apply for visas
If you are planning to relocate to Dubai to manage your business, you will need to obtain a residence visa. Your employees will also need to obtain work visas.
Your Dubai Business Journey Begins with Shuraa
In the pursuit of entrepreneurial dreams, the choice of where to establish your business can make all the difference. While there are various options on the global map, Dubai, UAE is definitely the best destination for Indian entrepreneurs.
However, the company formation process can be challenging considering the laws & policies. This is where Shuraa Business Setup comes to the rescue. With over 22 years of experience and a track record of assisting over 50,000 entrepreneurs in setting up their businesses in the UAE, Shuraa is your trusted partner in this exciting journey.
Our team of experts is equipped to provide comprehensive support for every step, from company registration to licensing, office space solutions, taxation, and PRO services.
So, if you’re ready to turn your business dreams into reality in Dubai, reach out to Shuraa for a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable experts.