Dubai is no longer just a business destination. It has become a global relocation hub for entrepreneurs, investors, professionals, and families. From tax efficiency to lifestyle advantages, the city is attracting people from every major economy.
In a recent Dubai Katta podcast, Bharat Bajaj, CEO of AB Capital Services FZE, shared real on-ground insights into business setup in Dubai, Golden Visa opportunities, accounting reforms, and upcoming compliance changes like e-invoicing. This blog breaks down those insights in a clear and practical way for anyone planning to start or expand a business in Dubai in 2026.
Why Business Setup in Dubai is Booming in 2026
The demand for business setup in Dubai has surged over the last few years, and 2026 is shaping up to be even bigger.
Key reasons include:
- Low and predictable tax environment
- Strong legal and regulatory framework
- 100% foreign ownership in most sectors
- World-class infrastructure and banking system
- High safety, stability, and global connectivity
Dubai has positioned itself as one of the most entrepreneur-friendly jurisdictions in the world. This is why business setup in Dubai continues to attract founders from India, Europe, the UK, the US, China, Russia, and beyond.
AB Capital A Trusted Name in Business Setup in Dubai
AB Capital is a boutique corporate services firm led by Bharat Bajaj, a UK-qualified Chartered Accountant and an Indian Company Secretary. The firm has handled 1,500+ clients globally, covering almost every industry imaginable.
What sets AB Capital apart is not just company formation, but end-to-end support throughout the entire business and residency journey in Dubai.
Core Services Offered by AB Capital
- Business setup in Dubai mainland, free zone, and offshore
- UAE residency through company formation
- Golden Visa advisory and processing
- PRO services for visas, medicals, Emirates ID, biometrics
- Accounting and bookkeeping
- VAT and Corporate Tax compliance
- FTA-approved tax agency services
- Business bank account advisory
- Real estate advisory and mortgage services
- Upcoming e-invoicing compliance solutions
This full-stack approach allows clients to rely on one trusted partner instead of multiple agencies.
Mainland Free Zone or Offshore Which Setup is Right
Choosing the right structure is one of the most critical steps in business setup in Dubai. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Common Business Structures in Dubai
| Structure | Best For | Key Advantage |
| Mainland Company | Trading, retail, services within UAE | Freedom to operate anywhere in UAE |
| Free Zone Company | International trade, e-commerce, consulting | 100% ownership and simplified setup |
| Offshore Company | Asset holding, international operations | Tax efficiency and confidentiality |
AB Capital evaluates the business model, target market, visa needs, and long-term plans before recommending the ideal structure.
Business Setup in Dubai From Idea to Operation
Business setup in Dubai is not just about issuing a license. It is a process that requires proper structuring, compliance planning, and execution.
Typical Business Setup Process
- Understanding the business activity and jurisdiction
- Selecting mainland, free zone, or offshore
- Trade name approval
- Initial approval from authorities
- License issuance
- Establishment card and immigration file
- Visa processing for owners and employees
- Corporate bank account assistance
- Accounting and tax compliance onboarding
Handled correctly, this process is smooth. Handled poorly, it leads to delays, rejections, and unnecessary costs.
Golden Visa in Dubai A Long-Term Residency Advantage
One of the most discussed topics in the podcast was the UAE Golden Visa, a 10-year residency option that has gained global attention.
Who Can Qualify for a Golden Visa
- Property investors with assets above AED 2 million
- Professionals earning AED 30,000 or more monthly
- Business owners paying AED 250,000 or more in annual taxes
- Entrepreneurs and investors meeting eligibility criteria
AB Capital helps clients assess eligibility, structure assets correctly, and apply through the most suitable route.
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
- 10-year renewable residency
- No need for a local sponsor
- Family sponsorship allowed
- Long-term stability in the UAE
- Enhanced credibility with banks and authorities
Golden Visa planning is now closely linked with business setup in Dubai, especially for entrepreneurs seeking long-term presence.
Accounting VAT and Corporate Tax The New Reality
Before 2018, accounting was not a major focus in the UAE. That changed with VAT, and later with Corporate Tax in 2023.
Today, compliance is no longer optional.
Key Compliance Requirements for Businesses
- Proper bookkeeping and financial records
- VAT registration and filing where applicable
- Corporate Tax registration and returns
- Audit readiness and documentation
- Regular reporting aligned with FTA standards
AB Capital, being an FTA-approved tax agency, plays a critical role in keeping businesses compliant and penalty-free.
E-Invoicing The Next Big Compliance Change
E-invoicing is one of the most important upcoming changes discussed during the podcast.
UAE E-Invoicing Timeline
| Phase | Applicability | Timeline |
| Phase 1 | Businesses with turnover above AED 50 million | From July 2026 |
| Phase 2 | All businesses in UAE | From June 2027 |
Businesses will be required to use approved Electronic Service Providers for invoicing. AB Capital is already working closely with authorities to become an authorised ESP.
Early preparation will be critical to avoid operational disruptions.
Industries AB Capital Has Helped Set Up
One of the strongest credibility markers is experience across industries.
AB Capital has supported:
- Manufacturing companies
- Financial and consulting firms
- Restaurants and cafeterias
- Salons and retail outlets
- Grocery and trading businesses
- Professional service firms
- Real estate investors
- Startups and SMEs
This broad exposure allows AB Capital to anticipate regulatory challenges before they arise.
Managing Global Clients and Time Zones
With offices in Dubai, Sharjah, and India, and clients across the US, Europe, Asia, and Canada, AB Capital operates on a truly global scale.
Key operational strengths include:
- Dedicated teams across time zones
- Technology-driven workflows
- AI-supported internal processes
- Strong documentation and compliance systems
- Client-first communication approach
This ensures consistent service quality regardless of client location.
Why Trust Matters in Business Setup in Dubai
One message that stood out clearly in the podcast was trust.
Business setup in Dubai is not a one-time transaction. It is the start of a long-term relationship that includes:
- Company growth
- Visa renewals
- Family sponsorship
- Tax filings
- Banking relationships
- Property investments
AB Capital positions itself as a lifetime partner, not just a setup agent.
Why Entrepreneurs Choose AB Capital
What Makes AB Capital Different
- 1,500+ successful client engagements
- One-stop solution for business and residency
- Strong accounting and tax foundation
- Transparent and structured advisory
- Multinational client experience
- Proactive compliance approach
- Deep understanding of UAE regulations
This combination is rare in the business setup industry.
Final Thoughts Dubai 2026 is an Opportunity Window
Dubai is evolving faster than most global jurisdictions. With new visas, tax systems, and compliance frameworks, the opportunities are massive, but only for those who plan correctly.
Business setup in Dubai in 2026 is not about speed alone. It is about structure, compliance, and long-term vision.
With the right advisor, Dubai can become not just a business destination, but a second home.
If you are serious about setting up, expanding, or relocating to the UAE, working with a firm like AB Capital can make the journey clear, compliant, and stress-free.
Don’t miss the full podcast featuring Bharat Bajaj discussing business setup, Golden Visa, and future compliance changes in Dubai.