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Destination Orientation

Destination Orientation and Navigating Dubai

Welcome to Dubai, a thriving business hub that offers excellent opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals.

As a company formation service provider, we understand the importance of destination orientation and a successful transition and integration into Dubai’s business landscape are essential for your business venture. Contact us to learn more about the Destination Orientation service offered at Start Business Advisory.

What’s next until you get 100% settled?

We know how difficult is to get settled completely in a new country or city. To not make you feel overwhelmed and extremely confused when it comes to the right way to settle in Dubai, we offer temporary settling services:

  • Accommodation: we will arrange temporary accommodation and hotel bookings if needed.
  • Transportation: we will familiarize you with the transportation options in Dubai. Arrange airport transfers or consider booking a taxi, chauffeurs services or car rental service to reach your temporary accommodation. Dubai has also a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, metro, and taxis.
  • Currency Exchange: We advise you to carry some local currency (UAE Dirhams) or we can ensure you have a reliable way to exchange currency upon arrival.
  • Mobile Phone and Internet: If you plan to use your existing mobile phone, check if it is compatible with the local network or we can help you purchase a local SIM card for temporary use. Additionally, we select a suitable internet service provider for temporary internet access or for your future home connection.
  • New Home? No worries! We can assist with utility connections such as electricity, water, gas, internet, and telephone.
  • Need essentials? We can guide local shopping, grocery stores, and other essential services.

Remember that your new adventure in Dubai should not be difficult, clueless and extremely exhausting. We are here to cover everything you might need.

Here is an orientation guide to help you navigate your new environment:

From a business perspective

Business Regulations and Licensing
  • Familiarize yourself with the business regulations and licensing requirements in Dubai. Understand the legal framework, company types, and necessary permits for your business activities.
  • Seek professional guidance to determine the most suitable company structure, such as a Free Zone entity or a mainland company, considering factors like ownership restrictions, tax implications, and industry-specific regulations.
Selecting the Right Business Structure
  • Comparison of various company structures, such as Limited Liability Company (LLC), Free Zone Company, and Branch Office.
  • Evaluation of ownership restrictions, tax implications, and eligibility criteria for each business structure.
  • Factors to consider when choosing between a free zone entity and a mainland company, including location, business activities, and market reach.
The Company Formation Process
  • Step-by-step guidance on establishing your company in Dubai, from name reservation to obtaining the necessary licenses.
  • Detailed explanation of document requirements and procedures for registering your business.
  • Insight into the timeline and costs involved in the company formation process.
Navigating Legal and Compliance Matters
  • Overview of the legal framework governing businesses in Dubai, including commercial laws, labor regulations, and intellectual property rights.
  • Guidance on drafting contracts, agreements, and other legal documents to protect your interests.
  • Understanding the importance of compliance with local laws, regulations, and reporting obligations.
Banking and Financial Considerations
  • Exploring banking options and selecting a suitable financial institution for your business.
  • Guidance on opening corporate bank accounts, obtaining credit facilities, and managing foreign exchange transactions.
  • Overview of Dubai’s financial ecosystem, including payment systems, tax obligations, and financial reporting requirements.
Establishing a Local Network and Business Support
  • Introduction to business networks, industry associations, and chambers of commerce for networking opportunities.
  • Accessing local support services, including legal firms, accounting professionals, and HR consultants

From a personal perspective

Cultural Sensitivity
  • Respect the local culture and customs of Dubai, which is deeply rooted in Islamic traditions.
  • Dress modestly and appropriately, especially in public places and during religious events.
  • Be mindful of local practices and etiquette, such as Ramadan fasting, prayer times, and local greetings.
Cost of Living
  • Dubai is known for its cosmopolitan lifestyle, but it can also be an expensive city to live in.
  • Research and plan your budget accordingly, considering accommodation, transportation, healthcare, education, and other daily expenses.
Accommodation
  • Decide on the type of accommodation that suits your needs and budget, whether it’s an apartment, villa, or shared accommodation.
  • Explore different areas of Dubai and consider proximity to your workplace, amenities, and lifestyle preferences when choosing a location.
Healthcare
  • Familiarize yourself with the healthcare system in Dubai, including public and private healthcare facilities, insurance coverage, and emergency services.
  • Ensure that you have appropriate health insurance coverage for yourself and your family members.
Education
  • If you have children, research the education system in Dubai and explore suitable schools or educational institutions.
  • Understand the admission process, curriculum options, and fees associated with schooling in Dubai.
Networking and Socializing
  • Join expat groups, professional networks, and community organizations to meet like-minded individuals and expand your social circle.
  • Attend events, workshops, and social gatherings to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
Security and Safety
  • Dubai is considered a safe city, but it’s still important to take necessary precautions for personal safety and protect your belongings.
  • Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers, follow traffic rules, and be aware of local laws and regulations.

How Do You Start Your Adventure in Dubai?

Where Are You?

Providing a comprehensive overview of the new location, including neighbourhoods.

What Are You Allowed To Do Or Not?

Offering guidance on local customs, laws, and regulations.

What Facilities Do You Have?

We tell you about schools, healthcare, transportation options, and leisure activities.

How To Adapt?

Facilitating cultural adaptation and helping individuals acclimate to their new environment.

Our Strategy

Initial Consultation

Getting you the best advise

  • We conduct an initial consultation with the expat to understand their business goals, requirements, and personal preferences.
  • We gather information about the expat’s business activities, target market, and desired lifestyle in Dubai.
Business Planning and Structure

Saving you precious time

  • Based on the gathered information, we assist the expat in developing a comprehensive business plan.
  • We analyze the feasibility of different company structures, considering the expat’s business goals and personal circumstances.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Doing the admin for you

  • We guide the expat through the legal and regulatory requirements for setting up a company in Dubai.
  • We assist with document preparation, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations for both business formation and personal residency.
Trade Name Reservation and Licensing

Being your support

  • We help the expat in reserving a trading name for the company, considering branding and personal preferences.
  • We assist in obtaining the necessary licenses and permits for specific business activities, as well as any personal residency permits.
Office Space and Accomodation

Being your support

  • We assists the expat in selecting an appropriate office space based on their business needs and budget.
  • Simultaneously, we provide guidance on finding suitable accommodation options that align with the expat’s preferences and budget.
Bank Account Opening and Personal Finances

Being your support

  • We facilitate the opening of a corporate bank account for the expat’s company.
  • We also provide guidance on personal banking matters, helping the expat set up personal bank accounts, manage finances, and understand any local financial considerations.
Visa and Residency Assistance

Being your support

  • The service provider offers comprehensive support in obtaining the necessary visas and residency permits for both the expat and their employees.
  • They guide the expat through the application process, and document preparation, and ensure compliance with local immigration regulations
Networking and Social Integration

Being your support

  • The team connects the expat with relevant business networks, industry associations, and social communities.
  • They provide information on local events, social gatherings, and activities to help the expat build professional and personal networks.
Cultural Orientation and Lifestyle

Being your support

  • The company formation service provider offers cultural orientation sessions to help the expat adapt to the local customs, traditions, and social norms.
  • They provide guidance on healthcare services, education options, transportation, recreational activities, and other aspects of daily life in Dubai

Frequently asked questions

The visa requirements for expats moving to Dubai vary depending on the purpose of their visit. The most common types of visas include employment visas, investor visas, and partner visas. Each visa category has specific eligibility criteria and document requirements. It is recommended to consult with a reliable immigration service or company formation agency to understand the visa requirements based on your situation.

There are various ways to find suitable accommodation in Dubai. Online property portals, real estate agents, and classified advertisements are popular methods. It’s important to consider factors such as budget, location, size, amenities, and proximity to your workplace or desired areas. Conduct thorough research, visit potential properties, and negotiate lease terms before making a decision.

The cost of living in Dubai can vary depending on individual lifestyles and preferences. While Dubai offers a range of options for different budgets, it is generally considered a relatively expensive city. Expenses such as accommodation, transportation, dining out, education, and healthcare can contribute to the overall cost of living. It is advisable to create a budget based on your specific needs and seek professional advice for financial planning.

Setting up a company in Dubai involves several steps. You will need to choose the appropriate company structure, such as a Free Zone entity or mainland company, based on your business activities and requirements. The process typically involves registering the company, obtaining necessary licenses, leasing office space, and opening a corporate bank account. Working with a reputable company formation service provider can simplify the process and ensure compliance with local regulations.

Dubai has a diverse cultural landscape, and it’s important for expats to be mindful of local customs and traditions. Some key cultural considerations include dressing modestly in public places, respecting Islamic religious practices, and being aware of local etiquette. It is also essential to be sensitive to cultural differences, communicate respectfully, and demonstrate a willingness to adapt and learn from the local culture.