More and more French businesses are looking beyond Europe to grow, and Dubai is quickly becoming a top choice. In recent years, the UAE has seen a steady rise in French companies setting up operations, with 1,000+ French businesses already active across Dubai and the wider UAE.
As we head into 2026, the connection between France and the UAE is stronger than ever. In fact, trade between the two countries hit over €8.5 billion last year.
Dubai has built a strong reputation as a global hub for trade, finance, technology, and startups. Its location connects Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it ideal for French businesses that want international reach without complex barriers. Add to that low taxes, 100% foreign ownership, world-class infrastructure, and fast business setup processes, and it’s easy to see why Dubai continues to attract French entrepreneurs year after year.
This 2026 guide is designed to make things simple and clear. We’ll explain how you can expand or move a French business to Dubai, the setup options available, costs involved, tax considerations, and the steps you need to follow.
Why French Businesses Are Choosing Dubai in 2026
French businesses aren’t moving to Dubai just because it looks good on paper. The shift is happening because Dubai solves many real challenges that companies in France and Europe are currently facing.
1. A Much Lighter Tax Burden
One of the biggest reasons French businesses look at Dubai is tax. Compared to France’s high corporate and personal taxes, Dubai offers a far more business-friendly environment. With a low corporate tax rate and no personal income tax, business owners can retain more profits and reinvest them into growth instead of paying heavy taxes.
2. Ease of Doing Business
In 2025, France was still ranked among the most complex jurisdictions for business administration by global indices. Dubai offers a stark contrast. The digitisation of government services here means you can renew trade licenses or apply for visas via smartphone apps.
What takes weeks of certified mail in France often takes 48 hours in Dubai. The “ease of doing business” isn’t just a slogan here; it’s a daily reality that saves French founders hundreds of administrative hours a year.
3. Faster and Simpler Business Setup
Starting or moving a business in Dubai is noticeably quicker than in many European countries. Licensing, visas, and approvals are streamlined, and businesses can often be operational within weeks. This speed is especially valuable for startups and companies planning quick expansion.
4. 100% Ownership and Full Control
In most business activities, French entrepreneurs can own 100% of their company in Dubai. There is no mandatory local partner requirement in many mainland and free zone setups, which gives business owners full control over decisions, profits, and long-term strategy.
5. Strong France–UAE Trade Relationship
France and the UAE share long-standing trade and diplomatic ties. Many French brands, banks, schools, and service providers are already well established in Dubai. This existing ecosystem makes it easier for new French businesses to enter the market, build partnerships, and find familiar networks.
6. Incredible Growth Opportunities
French businesses in sectors like Luxury, Fintech, and AI are moving because the customers are here. With the UAE’s “D33” agenda aiming to double the economy’s size by 2033, there is optimism in the market that is currently hard to find in Paris. You aren’t just saving money on tax; you are operating in a market where clients are actively spending and investing.
Can a French Company Move or Expand to Dubai?
Yes, French companies can either move their business to Dubai or expand their operations while keeping the French entity active. The right option depends on your long-term goals, target market, and how you plan to operate.
Relocation vs. Business Expansion:
You generally have two strategic paths:
- Expansion: You keep your French company running as usual in Paris or Lyon and open a completely separate company in Dubai. This is the most common route. It separates your risks. If the Dubai venture fails, your French company is safe. It also allows you to test the market without disrupting your existing operations.
- Relocation (Full Transfer): You pick up your French company and legally move its “seat” to Dubai. This is for business owners who want to leave the French jurisdiction entirely. The massive advantage here is continuity. You keep your company’s age, branding, and banking history (credit score), but you become a UAE tax resident entity.
Setting Up a New UAE Entity vs. Opening a Branch:
If you decide to keep your French company and simply expand to Dubai, you must choose between a Subsidiary and a Branch.
| Feature | New Entity (Subsidiary/LLC) | Branch Office |
| Legal Status | A separate legal company. | An extension of your French parent company. |
| Liability | Limited. The French parent company is NOT liable for the Dubai company’s debts. | Unlimited. The French parent company is 100% responsible for the Dubai branch’s liabilities. |
| Activity | Can do different business activities than the French company. | Must do the exact same activity as the French parent company. |
| Best For | Entrepreneurs who want to protect their French assets. | Large corporations who want to consolidate global revenue. |
Mainland vs Free Zone: Which Is Better for French Businesses?
Choosing between a mainland and free zone company is one of the most important decisions if you’re planning to relocate business from France to Dubai. The right option depends on where your clients are, how you plan to operate, and your growth plans in the UAE.
A. Mainland Company
A mainland company allows French businesses to operate anywhere in Dubai and across the UAE. It’s ideal for companies that want to work directly with local clients, government entities, or multiple UAE markets. Mainland setups are commonly chosen by consulting firms, trading companies, service providers, restaurants, and businesses that need full market access.
Best for: French businesses targeting the UAE market, government contracts, or local customers.
B. Free Zone Company
Free zone companies are set up within designated business zones and offer simplified regulations, lower setup costs, and easy ownership structures. They’re popular among startups, tech companies, e-commerce businesses, and international service providers. However, direct business with the UAE mainland may require additional arrangements.
Best for: Startups, digital businesses, trading companies, and firms focused on international or regional markets.
Documents Required to Move a French Business to Dubai
To move or expand a French business to Dubai, the authorities will ask for a mix of personal documents and company-related documents, including:
Personal Documents:
- Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
- Passport-size photographs
- UAE entry stamp or visit visa copy (if already in the UAE)
- Emirates ID (if available)
French Company Documents:
If you are opening a branch, subsidiary, or linking your French company to the UAE entity, the following documents are usually required:
- Certificate of Incorporation of the French company
- Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Trade register extract (Kbis)
- Board resolution approving the Dubai setup
- Power of Attorney (if appointing a local representative)
UAE Setup Documents:
- Proposed trade name(s)
- Business activity details
- Shareholder and management details
- Office lease or flexi-desk agreement (Ejari or free zone contract)
Attestation and Translation Requirements:
Most French company documents must be:
- Notarised in France
- Attested by the French authorities
- Attested by the UAE Embassy in France
- Legally translated into English or Arabic
How to Move a French Business to Dubai?
Dubai company setup for French entrepreneurs is a simple and straightforward process. Here’s how to expand or move a French business to Dubai, step-by-step:
Step 1: Decide Whether You’re Relocating or Expanding
The first step is to clearly define your goal. Some French businesses fully relocate their main operations to Dubai, while others keep their French entity active and open a UAE presence for regional expansion. This decision affects licensing, taxation, staffing, and long-term planning, so it’s important to get clarity early.
If you’re moving your business to Dubai, you must cleanly exit the French system to avoid ongoing tax liabilities.
- Hold an EGM (AGE): Your partners/shareholders must vote to dissolve the company early (dissolution anticipée).
- Appoint a Liquidator: Usually the manager (Gérant or Président). Their job is to sell assets, pay debts, and close accounts.
- Registration: Register the dissolution report (procès-verbal) with the French Tax Administration (SIE) and the Trade Register (RCS).
Once debts are paid, file the Liquidation Accounts. Any remaining money (boni de liquidation) is distributed to shareholders (subject to the flat tax in France). While closing France, you can simultaneously start the process in Dubai.
Step 2: Choose the Right Business Activity
Dubai issues business licenses based on specific activities. You must select activities that accurately reflect what your business will do in the UAE.
Step 3: Select the Best Jurisdiction
You’ll need to choose between a mainland, free zone, or branch setup.
Mainland companies are ideal for businesses targeting the UAE market directly, while free zones work well for international or regional operations. Branch setups suit established French companies that want to operate under the same legal name.
Step 4: Reserve Your Trade Name
Your trade name must follow UAE naming rules and should not conflict with existing businesses. Certain words, abbreviations, or references may not be allowed.
Step 5: Apply for the Business License
Once the activity and trade name are approved, you can apply for your business license. This involves submitting shareholder details, passport copies, and company documents from France if you’re opening a branch or subsidiary. Approval timelines depend on the business activity and jurisdiction chosen.
Step 6: Arrange Office Space
Dubai requires businesses to have a registered office address. This could be a physical office, shared workspace, or flexi-desk, depending on your setup. Office size often determines how many visas your company can apply for, so this step should align with your hiring plans.
Step 7: Complete Visa and Immigration Formalities
After the license is issued, investor and employee visas can be applied for. The process includes entry permits, medical tests, biometric registration, and Emirates ID issuance. Visas are usually valid for two years and are renewable.
Step 8: Open a Corporate Bank Account
Opening a UAE corporate bank account is a critical step and may take some time. Banks will review your business activity, ownership structure, and source of funds. Having clear documentation and a proper business plan can speed up approvals.
Step 9: Complete Tax and Compliance Registrations
Depending on your turnover and activity, you may need to register for corporate tax and VAT. Setting up proper accounting systems early helps you stay compliant with UAE regulations and avoid penalties later.
Cost of Moving a French Business to Dubai in 2026
For most French businesses, the overall setup cost generally falls between AED 15,000 and AED 100,000+. Free zone companies usually sit at the lower end of the range, while mainland companies, subsidiaries, or branch offices tend to cost more due to office and compliance requirements.
License and Registration Fees:
License and registration fees are a core part of the cost. These vary based on:
- Business activity (consulting, trading, tech, etc.)
- Mainland vs free zone setup
- Number of activities under one license
On average, license fees range from AED 10,000 to AED 25,000 per year. Some specialised activities may cost more or require additional approvals.
Visa and Office Costs:
Visa costs depend on how many investors and employees you plan to sponsor.
Investor or employment visa: AED 3,500 to AED 6,000 per visa (approx.)
Office or flexi-desk:
- Flexi-desk/shared office: AED 5,000 to AED 12,000 per year
- Physical office: AED 15,000 to AED 40,000+ per year
Additional Costs to Consider:
These are the fees that usually surprise French entrepreneurs after they have signed the contract.
- Document Attestation (~€500 / AED 2,200 per document): Your French documents (K-bis, Birth Certificate, Diplomas) must be stamped in Paris and Dubai.
- Bank Minimum Balance: Opening a corporate bank account is free, but many banks require you to maintain a minimum balance of AED 50,000 (€11,600) to avoid monthly penalty fees.
- Annual License Renewal: In Dubai, you must renew your Trade License every year, which is typically 80–90% of the initial setup price.
- Mandatory Health Insurance: Health insurance is compulsory for all residents (and employees) in Dubai. Prices rise annually with age and coverage.
Taxation for French Businesses in Dubai
While the UAE is no longer a zero-tax country, it still offers a far more favourable tax environment compared to France.
Corporate Tax (9%):
The UAE applies a 9% corporate tax on business profits above the exempt threshold (AED 375,000). This rate is significantly lower than in France, making it easier for businesses to retain profits and plan long-term growth. Free Zone companies can still enjoy a flat 0% rate on all income, but only if they generate “Qualifying Income.”
VAT in Dubai (5%):
Dubai has a 5% VAT on taxable goods and services. French businesses must register for VAT once they cross the mandatory turnover threshold. Proper invoicing and timely VAT filings are essential to stay compliant.
France–UAE Double Taxation Agreement:
France and the UAE have a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement, which helps prevent the same income from being taxed in both countries. With the right business structure, French companies can manage cross-border tax exposure more efficiently.
Tax Residency Considerations:
Many French entrepreneurs think that spending 183 days in Dubai automatically makes them “safe” from French taxes. This is false.
France uses the “Center of Vital Interests” (Centre des intérêts vitaux) rule. You could live in Dubai for 300 days a year, but if your wife and children live in Paris, or if your main car and house are in Lyon, the French tax authorities (DGFIP) may still consider you a French tax resident.
To be a true UAE Tax Resident, you must:
- Spend more than 183 days in the UAE.
- Have your primary home (Ejari) and social life in the UAE.
- Obtain a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) from the UAE Federal Tax Authority to present to French banks.
How Shuraa Can Help French Businesses Move to Dubai
Relocating business from France to Dubai in 2026 can open up a lot of new possibilities. From lower taxes and faster setup to access to global markets, Dubai gives French entrepreneurs the space to grow without the usual complications.
However, expert guidance from local experts like Shuraa is highly recommended. Whether you’re choosing between a mainland or free zone setup, applying for licenses and visas, handling PRO work, or opening a business bank account, our team will assist you at every step. You’ll also get clear guidance on corporate tax, VAT, and compliance, so everything stays smooth and legal.
So, if you’re considering moving or expanding your French business to Dubai in 2026, getting the right support from Shuraa can make all the difference.
