Frequently asked questions

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa valid for 10 years. There are several ways to qualify for it. The most common options include:

• Buying real estate worth AED 2 million or more
• Placing a fixed deposit of at least AED 2 million in a UAE bank
• Starting a company in the UAE
• Holding an executive position in a UAE company and having a bachelor’s degree in management or a related field

Each category has its own requirements. A setup consultant can help assess your eligibility and prepare your application.

There are over 40 free zones in the UAE, most of them located in Dubai. Each one has its own focus — such as media, technology, trade, or industry — and offers different types of facilities, visa quotas, and costs. 

Choosing the right one depends on:

• Your business activity
• Required infrastructure
• Budget
• Number of visas you need
• Preferred emirate

Business setup consultants like Emirabiz can help you find the best free zone based on your specific goals and requirements.

In most free zones, there is no actual requirement to deposit share capital — it is only declared on paper. However, in some jurisdictions (especially for certain regulated activities), you may be required to deposit the capital into a corporate bank account.
For mainland companies, the minimum capital depends on the activity but is usually declared only, without a deposit obligation.

The UAE business landscape is dynamic and constantly evolving. Rules, fees, and requirements for setting up a company and obtaining residency change frequently. Doing everything on your own may lead to costly mistakes, unexpected delays, or even the inability to register a business.

Business consultants have up-to-date knowledge, long-term relationships with free zones and banks, and experience navigating UAE bureaucracy. They can offer solutions you may not even know exist — saving you time, money, and stress.

he UAE Green Visa fees total AED 5,260. If you apply from the UAE, you will be charged an additional AED 500.

Yes. Proprietary crypto trading is legal in the UAE if you use only your company’s own funds and hold a valid license. You must not manage third-party funds or provide regulated financial services without additional approvals.

A proprietary trading license allows you to trade with your own capital. An asset management license allows you to manage client funds or offer investment advice, which requires VASP registration and more complex regulatory compliance. This type of activity is allowed in DIFC or ADGM.

Yes. Many proprietary trading companies in the UAE operate across global platforms. However, your license applies within the UAE, and you should ensure compliance with laws in any foreign country where you conduct business or access exchanges.

Yes. If your UAE-licensed crypto company earns taxable income over 375,000 AED, a 9% corporate tax applies. However, some free zone activities may qualify for 0% tax if structured correctly. Personal crypto gains are not taxed. A cryptocurrency license in Dubai ensures compliance with these rules.

Setup timelines vary. A cryptocurrency license in Dubai for proprietary trading or digital assets can be obtained in 1–4 weeks. For regulated activities like OTC desks or exchanges, it may take 6–12 months due to approvals, documentation, and compliance checks.