India has long been home to a thriving class of millionaires and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). But in recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift that Indian millionaires are leaving India and moving to the UAE.

The question is, why? What’s making them pack up their wealth, businesses, and influence to settle in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Emirates?

If you’ve been paying attention, the answer is obvious: the UAE offers a tax-friendly, business-friendly, and globally connected environment that India simply cannot match. And if you’re an entrepreneur or investor wondering whether you should follow this trend, the time to act is now.

Why Are Indian Millionaires Leaving India and Settling in the UAE?

Indian millionaires aren’t just leaving on a whim. They’re making strategic moves to protect their wealth, expand their businesses, and enjoy a better quality of life.

What Are the Reasons Behind This Trend?

1. Unfavorable Tax Policies in India

Let’s be honest—India’s tax structure is brutal for the wealthy. With high income tax rates (up to 42% for HNWIs), capital gains tax, and the ever-tightening grip of wealth scrutiny, many Indian millionaires are simply tired of losing massive portions of their income to taxation.

In contrast, the UAE offers 0% personal income tax, no capital gains tax, and business-friendly corporate tax policies. If you’re running a successful company, why would you stay in a country that takes nearly half your earnings when another welcomes you with open arms?

2. Increasing Regulatory and Compliance Burdens

The Indian government has been imposing stricter compliance and regulatory measures, making it more difficult for businesses and individuals to operate freely. From higher scrutiny on foreign investments to restrictions on moving money abroad, entrepreneurs feel trapped in an overregulated system.

3. Better Business Opportunities in the UAE

The UAE is not just a tax haven—it’s a global business hub. With its diverse economy, world-class infrastructure, and access to international markets, it provides Indian entrepreneurs with the perfect environment to expand, diversify, and scale their businesses.

Facts Showing a Shift Towards UAE

• India ranked highest in the number of millionaires emigrating in 2023, with thousands of HNWIs leaving the country.
• From the year 2022, Approx 20,000 millionaires have moved to the UAE.
• Dubai remains one of the top 10 wealthiest cities in the world, attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and business moguls.
• The UAE issued a record number of Golden Visas to Indian business owners and professionals, providing long-term residency and business security.
• Indian companies have invested billions in UAE Free Zones, taking advantage of tax benefits and global market access.

If numbers don’t lie, then these stats are proof—the UAE is the future for ambitious Indian entrepreneurs.

What Are the Benefits of Launching a Business in the UAE?

If you’re considering relocating your business, the UAE offers more than just tax advantages. Here’s why setting up a company here is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make.

1. Tax Benefits

• 0% personal income tax
• No capital gains tax
• Only 9% corporate tax (on profits exceeding AED 375,000)
• No withholding tax or estate tax
• Free Zone benefits with full tax exemptions

No country gives you a better deal when it comes to maximizing wealth retention.

2. Ease of Doing Business

Dubai consistently ranks among the top global destinations for business-friendly policies. The setup process is streamlined, bureaucracy is minimal, and government support is extensive.

Setting up a company in the UAE can take as little as a few days, compared to the months-long struggle in India.

3. Access to Global Markets

With world-class logistics, free trade agreements, and business-friendly regulations, UAE-based businesses have access to Asia, Europe, Africa, and beyond. If you want to scale internationally, this is where you need to be.

4. Supportive Government Policies

The UAE government actively encourages foreign investment, startups, and innovation. Entrepreneurs benefit from:

• Golden Visas for long-term residency
• Startup accelerators and incubators
• Flexible ownership structures, including 100% foreign ownership in most industries

5. Diversified Economy

Unlike traditional oil-driven economies, the UAE is investing heavily in technology, finance, tourism, logistics, and manufacturing. Indian business owners have endless opportunities to tap into new markets.

6. Strategic Location

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are perfectly positioned between the East and the West, making them prime locations for international trade and commerce.

7. Multicultural Environment

The UAE is home to over 200 nationalities, with a massive Indian diaspora. Whether you’re networking for business or settling in with family, you’ll always feel at home.

8. Quality of Life

From luxury real estate and top-tier healthcare to world-class education and safety, the UAE offers a high standard of living that makes it an ideal place for both business and family life.

What Are the Steps to Launch a Business in the UAE?

So, how do you make the move? Here’s a step-by-step guide to launching your business in the UAE.

1. Choose a Business Activity

Select a profitable business category, whether it’s technology, finance, e-commerce, or manufacturing.

2. Select a Business Structure

Decide between:

• Mainland Company – Trade anywhere in the UAE and internationally.
• Free Zone Company – Enjoy tax benefits and full foreign ownership.
• Offshore Company – Ideal for asset protection and global trading.

3. Register Your Business

Choose a unique trade name and register your company with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or relevant Free Zone authority.

4. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

Depending on your business activity, secure the appropriate trade license from regulatory authorities.

5. Open a Business Bank Account

Set up a corporate bank account for business transactions. The UAE offers business-friendly banking solutions for companies of all sizes.

6. Hire Employees

If your business requires a workforce, secure work permits and visas for employees.

7. Market Your Business

Leverage digital marketing, networking events, and local partnerships to establish a presence in the UAE market.

8. Ease Your Business Launch with AB Capital Services

The UAE makes business setup easy, but having the right partner makes it even easier. That’s where AB Capital Services comes in.

We specialize in:

• Company setup in Mainland, Free Zones, and Offshore jurisdictions.
• Trade license setup and approvals.
• Corporate tax and VAT setup.
• Business banking and visa processing.

With the team of  AB Capital Services, you get a hassle-free, cost-effective, and expert-led business setup process—so you can focus on scaling your empire.

Final Thoughts

The Indian millionaire exodus to the UAE isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a strategic wealth move. If you’re serious about protecting your earnings, growing your business, and securing a better future, the UAE is the place to be.

Don’t get left behind & not just for millionaires AB Capital Services also provide Low-Cost Business Setup in Dubai. Start your business in the UAE today with AB Capital Services.

Visit www.abcapital.ae and let’s make it happen.