Why Entrepreneurs from India and the UK Are Moving to the UAE — And What You’re Missing Out

Opportunities never come a second time in this fast-paced world; the doorbell is ringing for Indian and UK entrepreneurs... here in the UAE.

For business owners looking towards tax minimization, high growth rates, and global reach, the UAE is no longer a choice but a strategic move. The report from HSBC says that more and more entrepreneurs from India and the UK are in the process of shifting their businesses and assets to the UAE.

But why lately? What is backing this movement? And most importantly, what could you lose by staying behind?

Let us dive deep into why the UAE is currently attracting entrepreneurs worldwide and how you can use this trend to your benefit.

UAE Advantage: A New Magnet for Indian and UK Business Owners

UAE is no longer just a financial hub-it has become a new headquarters for global entrepreneurship. According to the HSBC report:

• 19% of Indian entrepreneurs are ready to shift their assets to the UAE.

  
  

• 9% of UK business owners are eyeing similar moves.

These are not some arbitrary figures; they indicate something much bigger-a global redirect toward the UAE as a nation of political and economic stability, investor-friendly, and low taxes.

Why Indian entrepreneurs are leading the shift

One of the triggering factors has been the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between India and UAE in May 2022. Set the trade barriers below, slashed tariffs, put the highest ease of business between the two countries.

Now Indian entrepreneurs who might have once considered the UAE a mere investment proposition now view it as an alternate home for business.

UK Business Owners Look for Stability and Expansion

Post-Brexit anxiety, tax pressure, and geopolitical instability have urged UK entrepreneurs to find safer, newer and high-growth territories. The income tax of 0% in the UAE (and low at 9% for corporate tax) holds significant allure for entrepreneurs, couple that with world-class infrastructure and a cosmopolitan lifestyle.

Is the 9% Corporate Tax Till Scaring Investors? Not So Much.

Maybe you are thinking, “Hasn't UAE introduced 9% corporate tax?”

Exactly. But according to HSBC's report, investors don't really mind it in the UAE. Only 15% said tax was a reason to halt or reconsider their proposals for setting up an enterprise.

Why?

The real cost of operating a business in UAE is still far less compared with the developed ones. Besides, the tax is levied only on income above AED 375,000, and multinationals are really being tapped with Pillar 2 rules.

Hence, for the biggest majority of entrepreneurs, it is a small amount to pay for a huge global platform.

Post-Covid Boom—Why Now Is the Fortunate Time to Be in UAE

It was not a scare rally-time for the UAE amid the pandemic but a definite one. Since 2020, the ultra-rich, family offices, and hedge funds have been holding a steadily increasing trend of moving into Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The receipt of business registrations has been high, nay, record-high, in DIFC and ADGM.

"What does this mean for the Entrepreneur?"

It means that you are building in a market where the wealthy visionaries and global elite reside and invest.

The Catch: Succession Planning Is Still a Weak Spot

While the entry into the UAE is a promising indicator, here is a red flag: succession could be a challenge.

Again, according to the same HSBC report,

• 61% of entrepreneurs have yet to transfer any wealth.

  
  

• 22% plan to do it only after death—more than the global average.

This could lead to family wrangling, dynasties breaking, and the fading of legacies—a scenario that Gulf family businesses are well acquainted with.

Solution? Early initiation, clever planning, and open communication. Plenty of wealth planning tools exist in the UAE—you need to make sure you utilize them.

How to Buy a Property in Dubai as a Foreigner

If you are a foreign entrepreneur relocating to Dubai, your prime first step is purchasing a property here.

Well, foreigners can buy apartments in Dubai by:

✅ Selecting the correct area. Popular areas include Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Dubai Marina, and JVC.

✅ Freehold versus Leasehold. Foreigners can buy Freehold properties in special areas, and as such, hold Full Ownership.

Related Blog: Click to learn more about in detail how to buy a property as an foreigner in Dubai

With attractive rental yields, zero annual property taxes, and a resurgent resale market — buying a property in Dubai is more than just procuring a home; it's an investment of sorts.

Why It Is Now Time to Setup in the UAE

Here is a quick review about why one should not wait any longer:

• Strategic Location: Between Europe, Asia, and Africa — direct access to 3.5 billion consumers.

  
  

• Global Talent Pool: In a multicultural ecosystem, one hires top professionals from every industry.

  
  

• World-Class Infrastructure: From smart city to high-speed connectivity — you're ready for scale.

  
  

• Stable Governance: Political stability, foresight, and safety made UAE a superb choice for business families.

  
  

• Property Market That Keeps Giving: The property scene in the UAE is already heating up with mega-projects being built all around Dubai South.

🌟 Don't Lose Out on It

Thousands of entrepreneurs are moving to the UAE. They aren't just relocating their businesses — they're relocating their mindsets, wealth, and future.

If you have been considering it over, NOW is the time to act!

Ready to Invest in Dubai? Here's How We Help You Succeed

At Noor & Mirza Real Estate, we specialize in supporting international entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners looking to establish a secure foothold in Dubai’s thriving property market. Explore Our Key Services:

• Home – Learn more about our expertise in Dubai real estate for global investors.

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• Contact Us – Book your consultation or request a custom property plan.