Doing Business in the UAE

For US companies seeking to expand globally, the UAE is a gateway to one of the most dynamic regions in the world. Over the past two decades, it has become the commercial crossroads of the Middle East, Africa and rapidly developing economies in Southeast Asia – a magnet for entrepreneurs, investors and multinational corporations. More than 1,500 US companies operate there today, many with regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, using the UAE as a launchpad for the $8 trillion Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) economy.

Why the UAE

The UAE offers a business environment built for international companies.

100% Foreign Ownership:

in most sectors, including technology and data centers.

Competitive Tax System:

9 percent federal corporate tax, with many activities at zero.

40+ Free Zones:

including globally recognized financial centers such as the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).

37 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements:

providing preferential market access across multiple regions.

Strong Legal Protections:

aligned with international standards for IP and dispute resolution.

Direct Access to Capital:

from leading sovereign wealth funds including Mubadala and ADIA.

Currency Stability:

the dirham is pegged to the US dollar.

Getting Started

Starting a business in any market carries risk. For comprehensive guidance on establishing a business
in the UAE – including free zone versus onshore options, licensing and regulatory requirements –
visit Invest UAE or contact local Chambers of Commerce.

For additional information on the accelerating UAE-US economic relationship, visit UAE Preferred.

UAE Preferred

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Investing in the UAE

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Why the UAE