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Be At the Crossroads of Global Commerce In Middle East

Arrive in 3 Continents

400 Cities

88 Ports

The Emirates Leads in 215 Competitiveness
Indices Globally

If we listed every eeason to move to The Emirates, you’d miss your flight reading them all

Airports are designed to serve up to 180 Million Travelers a Year

Arrive in 3 Continents

Investment
Opportunities Key Facts & Figures The Emirates Success Stories

Be At the Crossroads of Global Commerce
In Middle East

Arrive in 3 Continents

400 Cities

88 Ports

Huge Container Shop in the Sea splashing water

The Emirates Leads in 215 Competitiveness
Indices Globally

If we listed every reason to move to The Emirates, you’d miss your flight reading them all

Airports are designed to serve up to 180 Million Travelers a Year

Even our Airports Reflect the size of our Ambition.

Dubai Airport image with airlines in green color scale.

Investment
Opportunities

Key Facts & Figures

The emirates

Success Stories

Sun set image with a square frame with trees and floor in orange color

Promising and varied investment opportunities

The UAE is proactively encouraging the development of the knowledge and digital economy by identifying the following sectors as particularly promising

Energy

In the 2023 global competitiveness rankings, the UAE has secured the top position in five critical indicators, including access to electricity and energy infrastructure.

Financial services

The UAE ranks second globally and first in Asia, Africa and Europe in consumer trust in banks, which stood at 84% in 2022, according to an Annual Trust Index Survey.

Life Sciences

The UAE ranks second globally and first in Asia, Africa and Europe in consumer trust in banks, which stood at 84% in 2022, according to an Annual Trust Index Survey.

Fintech

UAE aims to be home to 20 start-ups valued at more than $1 billion by 2031.

Healthcare

The UAE’s healthcare system is globally ranked within the top 50.

Space

The UAE is ranked 10th globally in space walking missions outside the ISS and is investing heavily in commercial space activities.

Manufacturing

A significant producer of metals like aluminum and steel, as well as construction materials such as cement, ceramics, and glass.

Media and entertainment

The UAE's media and entertainment industry is booming, with ambitions to be a top 10 global box office market by 2030, hosting international film festivals and attracting major events.

Smart cities

Abu Dhabi and Dubai rank among the world's top 50 Smart Cities, leading the MENA region in the 'Smart City Index 2021,' with Dubai's forward-looking plan for autonomous transportation by 2030.

e-Commerce

Boasts an impressive internet penetration rate of over 90%, one of the highest in the world.

Education

Establishing a competitive knowledge economy is a national priority for the UAE government.

Logistics services

Ranked as the top improving GCC country on the 2023 World Bank Logistics Performance Index.

Medical tourism

Dubai ranks 6th globally and 1st in the MENA region for medical tourism, with excellent facilities and services.

Creative industries

The creative sector thrives, nurturing local talent and cultural expression, with Dubai designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Design in 2017, underscoring its dedication to creativity and culture.

AgriTech

Currently ranks 23rd out of 113 countries on the 2022 Global Food Security Index (GFSI).

Tourism

An attractive destination with economic stability, and cultural diversity, and ranked second for fast-growing international arrivals.

ICT

The UAE ranks 28th out of the 131 economies included in the NRI 2022.

Renewable energy

The UAE has three of the world's largest solar plants and is reducing carbon emissions by 1 million metric tons annually, equivalent to removing 200,000 cars from the road.

Gaming

The UAE was ranked 35th largest gaming market in the world in terms of revenue as of 2019 and was also ranked 5th globally for gaming influencers.

BRING YOUR IMPOSSIBLE TO THE EMIRATES

Overview of the UAE's investment landscape

The UAE offers an attractive investment environment with a vibrant culture, investor-friendly laws, strong security, and political stability. The 2018 Foreign Direct Investment Law has opened numerous opportunities in both mainland and free zone areas.

#21

Globally in UN’s World Happiness Report and #1 in the Region

#16

Ranking Globally and Attracts $22.7 billion in FDI

#16

in primary education quality

#08

in teaching quality

#1

in the MENA region and #11 globally in UNIDO's Quality Infrastructure for Sustainable Development Index

#4

in the world to launch commercial 5G services and #1 in the fastest mobile internet network ranking

#12

in higher education quality

#28

globally in the Artificial Intelligence Index and #1 in the Arab world

Seven emirates, one vision for growth

Each emirate boasts distinctive assets and strengths, rendering the nation’s investment landscape both diverse and exceptional

Seven emirates, one vision for growth

Each emirate boasts distinctive assets and strengths, rendering the nation’s investment landscape both diverse and exceptional

Back to Map

Burj Khalifa in pink background and a scenic view of the city.

Dubai

In a short period, Dubai has evolved from a local trading community into a global sensation, drawing attention with its inspirational transformation. Today, it is a highly sought-after destination for both tourists and businesses.

Boasting a diverse and multicultural population, Dubai provides a unique environment enriched by various cultures, offering an unrivalled quality of life and work in the Middle East. With a population largely composed of expatriates drawn by its lifestyle appeal and investment incentives, including tax-free policies and penalty-free repatriation of earnings, Dubai has become a bustling metropolis blending Emirati heritage, Arabian vitality, Western spontaneity, and Asian ambition.

Serving as the gateway between East and West, Dubai has emerged as the preferred hub for the region’s imports and exports market, capitalising on its strategic location and easy access to more than 2 billion consumers across a centralised time zone that harmonises East and West business hours.

Key considerations

Strategic location:

Dubai lies at the heart of the MENA region, connecting over 240 cities worldwide by air

Quality of life:

Enjoys the status as a global city with a high quality of life and living standards

Transport facilities:

One of the best transport infrastructure facilities globally

Digital initiatives:

Initiatives like the Dubai Metaverse strategy, Paperless strategy, and technology-based approaches attract international ESG investors

Ease of doing business:

Transparent and streamlined business registration processes, low-cost office spaces and warehouses, 26 free zones

Tax incentives:

Enjoys the status as a tax haven, as well as competitive corporate tax rates, and tax holidays for businesses in free zones

Investor services:

Dedication to investor services, creating business opportunities and protecting foreign investments

Future prospects:

With a stable economy, Dubai remains committed to diversifying the economy, attracting investment in future-focused sectors, and enhancing growth opportunities in the digital economy property

Abu Dhabi

Nestled within the Middle East’s second-largest economy, Abu Dhabi strategically tailors its tax and legal systems to attract foreign investment. With zero income and corporation tax rates in most sectors, and measures in place to avoid double taxation, the emirate is a highly attractive destination for global investors. Special Economic Zones (SEZs) cater to finance, media, logistics, and sustainable energy sectors and they offer the benefit of up to 100% profit repatriation.

Abu Dhabi welcomes investors with long-term residency visa programmes, 100% foreign ownership in various sectors, and a superior standard of living. With advanced healthcare, reputable academic institutions, and top-tier international schools, the capital of the UAE has proven to be one of the most suitable places for investors seeking innovation, a progressive

Key considerations

Geographical advantage:

Central location with access to vast global markets like India, Europe, and North Africa
About 80% of the world’s population within eight hours and 33% within four hours of flying time

Talent and innovation hub:

Competitive destination for top global talent
Recognised as a hub for digital and technological innovation

Vision for growth:

Economic diversification efforts are aligned with the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030

Fintech leadership:

Ambition to become the primary fintech hub for the Middle East
Heavy government investment in supporting fintech startups

Regulatory framework:

Established regulatory framework through Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)

Tech innovation and startups:

Lively startup culture attracting substantial investment in the digital technology sector
Hub71, a tech innovation hub, brings together strategic partners

Incentives and support:

Six free zones
Incentive programmes offering funding for seed-level and emerging startups
Support for startups with office space, accommodation, and healthcare
Key sectors where incentives are offered include manufacturing, tourism, agritech, financial services, logistics, education, healthcare & biopharma, energy, ICT, property and technology

Global collaboration:

Collaborations with international entities like Microsoft and the Softbank Vision Fund

Tax incentives:

Zero income and corporation tax rates in most sectors
Agreements in place to avoid double taxation on overseas investments, promoting a favourable tax environment for foreign investors

Ajman

The Emirate of Ajman holds a strategic location with proximity to the economic and industrial centres of Dubai and Sharjah, accessible through the Arabian Gulf. With a comparatively low cost for business establishment, Ajman has positioned itself as an emerging commercial hub, drawing the interest of both local and international investors.

The emirate’s commitment to sustainable economic development through substantial investments in digital transformation, smart government services, and modern infrastructure, sets the stage for a thriving business ecosystem. Additionally, Ajman’s focused development in the tourism and property sectors, including the introduction of short-term rentals and varied accommodation options, is reshaping the UAE’s tourism landscape and opening new avenues for property investment.

Key considerations

Location and infrastructure:

Convenient location with two free zones and easy access to the economic and industrial hubs of Dubai and Sharjah
Continuous investment in progressive infrastructure to facilitate business operations

Supportive environment:

Government commitment to economic development and creating a supportive investment climate
Policies designed to attract and nurture economic growth

Development initiatives:

Clear path, vision, and goals outlined by the government for the economic development of the emirate
Provision of necessary facilities and incentives to attract and encourage investors

Vibrant economy:

Construction, building, and property sectors are the major GDP contributors at 31.9%, while the manufacturing and trade sectors each contributed 18.8%.

Lower costs:

Lower operational costs, skilled labour, and promising investment opportunities in industrial, tourism, and service sectors

Unique heritage:

Steeped in history, Ajman is actively seeking to achieve its development vision

Promising sectors:

Farming technology, food industries, desalination & water purification, renewable energy, R&D, financial services technology, AI, software & robotics

Sharjah

An emirate where collaboration between entrepreneurs and governmental bodies creates a dynamic environment for both SMEs and global enterprises. With a rising GDP, a diverse economy, and a growing population of educated youth, Sharjah offers long-term investment opportunities and access to global markets.

Recognised as the UAE’s cultural capital and education hub, Sharjah is increasingly known for sustainability initiatives and as a world-class centre for R&D and innovation.

Government support, cost advantages, and a culture of innovation make Sharjah a prime choice for multinational corporations seeking a Middle Eastern base, strategically located between Europe and East Asia.

Key considerations

Economy and infrastructure:

A stable economy with excellent infrastructure and living standards

Industrial growth:

The emirate’s manufacturing sector contributes 7% to Sharjah’s GDP.
More than 35% of the UAE’s manufacturing industries are based in Sharjah

Strategic location:

Multiple ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman
Central location in the UAE, making it an attractive investment destination.
Boasts 33 industrial zones and 6 free zones

Technological leadership:

Regional leader in 3D printing technologies, industrial automation, robotics, and drone aircraft production

Vibrant manufacturing sector:

The manufacturing sector records significant growth, covering diverse industries such as petrochemicals, plastics, metal manufacturing, textiles, printing, packaging, food processing, and automotive components.
Advanced manufacturing sector expected to grow to USD599 million by 2025

Investment opportunities:

The industrial sector benefits from agile legislative and regulatory frameworks
35% of the nation’s manufacturing operations are located in Sharjah

Investment opportunities:

The industrial sector benefits from agile legislative and regulatory frameworks
35% of the nation’s manufacturing operations are located in Sharjah

Government support:

Sharjah supports the UAE’s national strategy, Operation 300 Billion

Incentives and services:

Provides integrated services to current and prospective investors

Investor services:

Offers incentive packages for investors in such fields as culture & tourism, mobility & logistics, health and wellbeing, green tech, human capital and innovation, advanced manufacturing, and agri-food technology

Umm Al Quwain

Umm Al Quwain is rapidly emerging as a vibrant destination for investors, offering a stable economy and a welcoming investment climate. The Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ) epitomises an investor-friendly environment, tailored specifically for SMEs and micro-businesses, with benefits like 100% foreign ownership and easy registration processes.

The zone is equipped with well-designed executive offices and co-working spaces, fostering an ideal environment for business expansion. Committed to sustainable development, UAQ FTZ integrates eco-friendly practices, positioning Umm Al Quwain as a leader in responsible business growth. The emirate also presents boundless opportunities for networking and business development, with access to a wide array of companies and entrepreneurs from across the globe.

Key considerations

Strategic market access:

UAQ Free Zone location enables low-cost living for labour
Businesses in the UAQ Free Zone can access millions of customers from different regions
Proximity to the UAE’s main seaport, Dubai International Airport, and Sharjah International Airport facilitates trade logistics

Efficient business setup:

UAQ Free Zone Authority streamlines the business setup process, allowing entrepreneurs to establish a company in as little as 3 to 5 working days

Low set up the cost:

The business set up cost is comparatively low in UAQ which makes the new entrepreneurs with limited capital get attracted towards it

Affordable licences:

The free zone provides low-priced licences, starting at approximately AED13,500 (USD3,576), making it cost-effective for entrepreneurs to initiate micro-businesses. Additional costs for resident visas are transparent, with a single investor visa for three years priced at AED2,500 (USD680)

Remote business setup:

Foreign investors can establish companies in the UAQ Free Zone from abroad, requiring only the signing of incorporation documents and couriering them to the appointed agent for registration on behalf of the company by UAQ authority

Diverse licence options:

Entrepreneurs can acquire licences tailored to their chosen business activities, spanning commercial, industrial, consultancy, service, freelance, and micro-business categories

No restrictions on hiring:

There are no limitations on hiring foreign employees in the free zone

Ras Al Khaimah

In the dynamic world of global investments, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), a lesser-known gem of the UAE, is increasingly being recognised as an appealing choice for investors exploring opportunities across diverse sectors. Positioned strategically, boasting business-friendly policies, and expanding infrastructure, RAK is asserting itself as a burgeoning investment hub.

The emirate operates as a free trade zone, extending various advantages to entrepreneurs, including complete foreign ownership, unrestricted repatriation of capital and profits, and a zero-tax policy on import and export activities. These initiatives not only open avenues for new business prospects but also enhance the city’s appeal for foreign investments, positioning it as a globally competitive destination.

Key considerations

Strategic Location

Positioned at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, RAK serves as an ideal gateway for businesses to access Middle Eastern and global markets

Business-friendly environment:

Renowned for its investor-friendly policies, RAK offers incentives like tax exemptions, and simplified registration processes, incentivising entrepreneurship and innovation

Economic diversification:

Committed to diversification beyond oil and gas, RAK has invested in sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, property, and renewable energy, providing diverse investment opportunities

Infrastructure development:

Substantial investments in transport, healthcare, education, and tourism infrastructure ensure that residents and businesses have access to world-class facilities and services

Marjan Island:

A hotspot for luxury property projects, with major developers aiming to transform it into a world-class destination, offering breathtaking views and an opulent lifestyle

Development zones:

Home to strategic development zones like Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) and Al Hamra Industrial Zone, providing specialised infrastructure and incentives for businesses

Business Parks:

Four distinct free zone parks catering to different business sectors and investor needs
The business park, centrally located near key facilities like RAK Exhibition Centre, Hilton Hotel, and Al Manar Shopping Mall, is dedicated to office-based companies and service providers

Industrial Park:

Positioned 15 kilometres north of the city and 6 kilometres from Saqr Port, the largest bulk container port in the MENA region
Supports heavy construction industries and facilitates easy access to growing regional markets

Technology Park:

Located in the South of RAK, close to Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah International Airport
Focused on light industries and automated manufacturing

Academic Park:

Hosts a variety of educational programmes offering undergraduate and graduate courses
Provides an academic environment within the free zone, supporting knowledge-based initiatives

Sustainability initiatives:

RAK emphasises sustainability and environmental conservation through green initiatives, energy-efficient projects, and ecofriendly developments, appealing to socially responsible investors

Potential for tourism:

Rich cultural heritage and historical sites attract tourists, offering diverse opportunities in the hospitality and tourism sector, from luxury resorts to cultural attractions

Future focused:

The Investment and Development office (IDO) is the investment arm of the Government of Ras Al Khaimah, driving economic growth and generating sustainable financial returns for the emirate’s development
IDO manages a diverse portfolio across various sectors including property, tourism and hospitality, manufacturing, mining, energy and utilities, transport and logistics, education, healthcare, and financial services

Fjujairah

An evolving investment destination in the UAE, Fujairah is actively pursuing economic diversification offering a rich array of investment prospects spanning tourism, mining, and small to medium-sized industries.

Capitalising on its strategic location and fortified infrastructure encompassing land, sea, and air networks, the emirate has solidified its role as a key player in both regional and global trade.

With a steadfast commitment to sustainable development, complemented by investor-friendly policies and proactive initiatives led by Fujairah Holding and Fujairah Investment Company, the emirate emerges as a compelling and profitable choice for astute investors seeking both growth and sustainability.

Key considerations

Strategic location:

Fujairah’s strategic location on the Gulf of Oman sets it apart from other UAE emirates, offering businesses a logistical advantage by enabling ships to avoid the congested Strait of Hormuz during transit

Port of Fujairah:

The port’s deep waters accommodate ultra-large crude carrier size ships, making it the world’s second-largest bunkering destination for cargo ships. This has attracted major fuel trading and supply companies
The port serves as a major hub for global fuel trading and supply companies, offering refueling and restocking services for cargo ships

Global trade:

Fujairah’s crucial shipping route status opens global trade opportunities and makes it an ideal location for businesses engaged in international trade

Fujairah Free Zones (FFZ):

Established in 1991, hosts more than 2,000 companies across sectors
Particularly attractive for export-oriented manufacturing due to low setup costs and proximity to Port of Fujairah

Cost effective:

Fujairah provides the flexibility of setting up a business at the lowest cost

Multiple residency visas:

Allows business owners to apply for several visas without the need to lease physical office space

Creative city:

Specialised hub for media-related businesses
Competitive licencing fees, making it a viable option compared to other regional media hubs
Cost-effective alternative with no share capital deposit requirements

Incentives and services:

Offers incentive packages for investors in key sectors such as petroleum, mining, port services, free zone services, commercial, industrial and tourism