Are you an American entrepreneur looking to take your business global?
If so, Dubai should be on top of your list. With its zero income tax, strategic global location, business-friendly policies, and easy setup procedures, Dubai has rapidly become a magnet for foreign investors, especially those from the United States.
This article offers everything you need to know about starting a company in Dubai from the USA—from choosing the right business structure to understanding legal requirements, documentation, visa options, and more.
Why American Entrepreneurs Are Choosing Dubai?
Dubai isn’t just a glittering tourist hotspot—it’s a global business hub. Listed below are the numerous reasons why so many U.S. entrepreneurs are expanding their companies in Dubai.
1. 0% Personal and Corporate Tax (in many Free Zones)
Unlike the U.S., where federal and state corporate taxes can exceed 21–30%, many Free Zones in Dubai offer 0% corporate and personal tax for up to 50 years. That’s a huge win for profit margins.
2. Full Repatriation of Profits
You can transfer your income and capital back to the U.S. without restrictions. That’s financial freedom that many American entrepreneurs desire.
3. No Currency Restrictions
Dubai operates in a free-market currency environment, making it easy for U.S. investors to operate in USD or AED.
4. Global Market Access
Located between Europe, Asia, and Africa, Dubai serves as a launchpad to over 2 billion consumers across multiple continents.
5. State-of-the-Art Infrastructure
From luxury office spaces to logistics hubs, Dubai has world-class infrastructure to support startups, SMEs, and multinational companies alike.
Best Business Structures for Americans in Dubai
Before starting your company in Dubai, it’s vital to choose the right structure for your business.
Here are the best business structures for Americans in Dubai:
1. Free Zone Company
- A free zone company in Dubai allows for 100% foreign ownership
- Tax exemptions
- Quick setup process
- Ideal for trading, consulting, IT, and e-commerce businesses
- No local sponsor needed
2. Mainland Company
- A Dubai mainland company allows to conduct business anywhere in the UAE and internationally
- Can bid on UAE government contracts
- Requires a local service agent or Emirati partner (for certain activities)
- More flexibility in office location and operations
3. Offshore Company
- Utilised for asset protection, international trading, or holding investments
- No need for a physical office in the UAE
- Cannot do business within the UAE
- Jurisdictions include JAFZA Offshore and RAK ICC
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Start a Company in Dubai from the USA
Here’s a simple roadmap to help you incorporate your Dubai business remotely from the U.S.:
1. Select Your Business Activity
Select from over 2,000+ licensed activities. These range from tech, logistics, and consultancy to manufacturing and e-commerce.
2. Select the Right Jurisdiction
Decide whether to incorporate in:
- Free Zone (tax advantages)
- Mainland (more flexibility)
- Offshore (international business)
3. Reserve a Company Name
Choose a business name that meets Dubai’s naming rules (no religious terms, avoid offensive words, etc.).
4. Prepare & Submit Documents
Typical documents include:
- Passport copy of the owner
- Passport-size photo
- Business plan (for some activities)
- U.S. company incorporation documents (for branches)
5. Apply for Business License
Depending on your jurisdiction, you can apply for:
- Commercial License
- Professional License
- Industrial License
- E-commerce License
6. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Choose among top banks like Emirates NBD, Mashreq, or RAKBANK. Most U.S. citizens qualify easily with proper KYC.
7. Apply for Residency Visa (Optional)
You can apply for an investor visa in Dubai, which gives you the right to reside and work in Dubai.
Documents Required to Start a Business in Dubai from the USA
Here’s what American entrepreneurs typically need:
- Passport Copy (Owner/Shareholders)
- Business Name Reservation
- U.S. Company documents (if setting up a branch)
- Business activity description
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
- Power of Attorney (if incorporating remotely)
Expected Costs to Start a Company in Dubai as an American entrepreneur
Here are the expected costs to set up a company in Dubai as an American entrepreneur:
Trade license (Free Zone) | $3,500 – $7,000 |
Office rent (Virtual/Co-working) | $1,500 – $5,000 |
Investor Visa (3 years) | $1,000 – $2,500 |
Attestation & document processing | $500 – $1,200 |
Misc. legal & admin fees | $500 – $1,000 |
Note: These may vary depending on the Free Zone, business activity, and visa requirements.
Top Business Ideas in Dubai for U.S. Entrepreneurs
Here are some popular industries in Dubai for American business owners:
- IT and Software Services
- Logistics and Supply Chain
- E-commerce and Dropshipping
- Consultancy (Business, Legal, HR)
- Digital Marketing Agencies
- Renewable Energy Solutions
- Health & Wellness Products
- Real Estate & Property Management
Can You Start a Dubai Company Remotely from the USA?
Yes, you can start a company in Dubai remotely as an Indian.
Due to digital portals, authorized agents, and remote notarization, U.S. citizens can complete the full setup process without traveling to Dubai.
Services offered remotely:
- Business registration
- Bank account assistance
- Document attestation
- Visa processing
How OnDemand International Helps American Entrepreneurs?
At OnDemand International, we specialize in business incorporation in Dubai for U.S.-based entrepreneurs. Here’s how we can support your journey:
- Free one-on-one consultation
- Business activity advisory
- Trade name approval
- Document preparation and attestation
- Visa application and residency services
- Bank account opening
- Virtual office and local sponsor arrangements (if required)
Trusted by 1000+ clients globally and rated 4.9 stars on Trustpilot, we’re your reliable partner in international expansion.
Conclusion
If you’re an ambitious entrepreneur looking to go global, there’s never been a better time to start a company in Dubai from the USA. Dubai offers a seamless blend of tax efficiency, world-class infrastructure, and unmatched global access—all wrapped in a business-friendly ecosystem.
Whether you’re expanding a tech startup, incorporating a trading venture, or expanding your consultancy, Dubai provides the foundation for scalable success.
If you are looking to set up a business in Dubai, you can get in touch with our incorporation experts from OnDemand International.
FAQ’s
Yes. Especially in Free Zones and many Mainland sectors after the 2021 reform.
Yes, the entire process can be done remotely through authorized agents like us.
Some banks allow remote openings; others may require a short visit. We’ll guide you.
No, but a residency visa offers benefits like leasing offices, hiring staff, and living in Dubai.
Yes, Dubai allows 100% repatriation of capital and profits.
