The UAE continues to attract entrepreneurs and companies from all over the world. In 2025, business formation numbers show a clear trend. More foreign investors are choosing the UAE as their regional or global base because of its stable economy, tax friendly policies, strong infrastructure, and easy access to international markets.
What stands out the most is that India remains the number one country expanding or starting businesses in the UAE. Alongside India, several other countries are also increasing their presence across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and various free zones.
This blog breaks down the top 10 countries expanding or starting businesses in the UAE in 2025, why they are choosing the UAE, and what types of businesses they are launching.
Why the UAE Attracts Global Businesses
Before diving into the country list, it is important to understand why the UAE is such a strong magnet for foreign entrepreneurs.
- 100% foreign ownership in most business activities
- Zero personal income tax
- Competitive corporate tax structure
- Strong banking and financial ecosystem
- Strategic location between Asia Europe and Africa
- Stable government and long term economic vision
- Easy visa and residency options for investors
These factors make the UAE one of the safest and most profitable places to start or expand a business.
Top 10 Countries Expanding or Starting Businesses in the UAE in 2025
10. Canada
Canadian entrepreneurs are entering the UAE mainly through consulting, technology services, fintech, and education based businesses. Many Canadian companies use the UAE as a gateway to Middle Eastern and African markets.
Canada based founders value the UAE for its ease of doing business, global connectivity, and investor friendly regulations.
9. Australia
Australian companies are expanding in sectors like construction services, mining support, professional consulting, and education. Australian startups are also choosing Dubai for regional headquarters due to strong trade relations and ease of company formation.
8. France
French businesses are growing steadily in the UAE, especially in luxury retail, hospitality, food and beverage, fashion, and manufacturing support services. The UAE offers French brands access to a high spending consumer market and regional expansion opportunities.
7. Italy
Italian entrepreneurs are focusing on design, interior fit out, fashion, furniture, and food related businesses. Italian brands see strong demand in the UAE due to appreciation for quality craftsmanship and premium products.
6. China
Chinese companies continue expanding rapidly in the UAE through trading, logistics, ecommerce, manufacturing support, and technology distribution. Many Chinese businesses use Dubai as a logistics and re-export hub for Africa and Europe.
5. Pakistan
Pakistani entrepreneurs are increasingly setting up businesses in the UAE in trading, textiles, logistics, IT services, and food businesses. The UAE offers Pakistani founders better access to international clients and stable financial systems.
4. United Kingdom
UK based companies are expanding strongly in consulting, finance, legal services, marketing agencies, fintech, and professional services. Many UK entrepreneurs choose the UAE for its business friendly tax environment and proximity to global markets.
3. Russia
Russian investors have significantly increased business activity in the UAE in recent years. Businesses include real estate, trading, hospitality, crypto related services, and investment holding companies. The UAE provides financial stability and long term residency options.
2. United States
US entrepreneurs and companies are entering the UAE through technology startups, software development, ecommerce, health services, and professional consulting. The UAE is seen as a strong base for global expansion beyond the US market.
1. India
India tops the list in 2025 as the largest contributor to new businesses in the UAE.
Indian entrepreneurs dominate company formation numbers across free zones and mainland licenses. Businesses range from trading, ecommerce, IT services, consulting, manufacturing support, food businesses, logistics, and real estate services.
Indian founders choose the UAE because of:
- Cultural familiarity
- Strong trade ties
- Easy travel connectivity
- Affordable company setup options
- Access to global clients
For many Indian business owners, the UAE is not just a foreign market but a second home for business growth.
Most Common Business Types Foreign Entrepreneurs Start in the UAE
Across all nationalities, the most popular business activities include:
- General trading
- Ecommerce and online services
- Professional consulting
- IT and software services
- Logistics and freight forwarding
- Food and beverage businesses
- Real estate and property services
- Marketing and digital agencies
These sectors continue to show strong demand in 2025 and beyond.
Do checkout our 2026 Top 26 Low Investment Business Ideas in Dubai, UAE
https://abcapital.ae/low-investment-business-ideas-in-dubai-uae/
Why 2026 Is a Strong Year for Foreign Business Expansion in the UAE
Several factors make 2026 an ideal year to enter the UAE market:
- Stable economic growth despite global uncertainty
- Strong non oil sector performance
- Continued infrastructure development
- Investor friendly visa reforms
- Increased demand for international services and products
Foreign businesses entering now are positioning themselves for long term growth.
How AB Capital Services Helps Foreign Entrepreneurs Launch in the UAE
Starting a business in a new country can feel overwhelming. AB Capital Services simplifies the entire process for foreign entrepreneurs looking to expand or start a business in the UAE.
They guide you through company formation, visa processing, banking, tax registration, and compliance so you can focus on growing your business instead of handling paperwork.
Why AB Capital Services Is Different
AB Capital Services stands out because they focus on long term support rather than just quick setup.
- Assigned agency leaders with a dedicated relationship manager
- Clear and transparent communication at every stage
- Strong customer support before and after company formation
- Assistance available for every step of business setup and compliance
- Multilingual support in English Hindi Malayalam Arabic and Punjabi
- Registered and FTA approved agency
- Years of experience with over 1500 companies formed in the UAE
This approach ensures foreign entrepreneurs feel confident and supported throughout their UAE business journey.
Final Thoughts
The UAE continues to be the top destination for global entrepreneurs in 2025. With India leading the list, followed by the US, Russia, the UK, and others, the trend is clear. Businesses are choosing stability, growth, and global access.
If you are planning to expand or start a business in the UAE, now is the right time to take the first step with the right guidance.
Use our Free Cost Calculator to know about the exact costs when starting a business in UAE.
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