If you are an Indian entrepreneur, freelancer, or business professional looking to relocate to Dubai, setting up a Free Zone company is one of the most efficient and legally sound ways to make the move.
Dubai has become a magnet for ambitious individuals from India, offering tax efficiency, global connectivity, high quality of life, and a business-friendly regulatory system. In this guide, we will walk you through the complete step-by-step process of moving from India to Dubai using a Free Zone business setup.
Why Indians Are Moving to Dubai Through Free Zones
Dubai has emerged as one of the most attractive relocation destinations for Indian professionals and entrepreneurs. Here are some of the key reasons behind the trend.
Zero Personal Income Tax
Dubai does not levy any personal income tax. This means Indian citizens who move to Dubai and establish tax residency there can legally eliminate income tax on both business and salary earnings, provided their income is earned through their UAE-based company.
Quick and Simple Business Setup
Most Free Zones allow you to set up a company remotely in just seven to ten working days. You can receive a license, visa eligibility, and even bank account introductions with minimal documentation and effort.
High-Quality Infrastructure
Dubai offers world-class digital infrastructure, secure payment systems, modern office spaces, and one of the most advanced logistics hubs globally.
Access to Global Markets
With its strategic location between East and West, Dubai serves as an ideal launchpad for international trade, consulting, e-commerce, and service-based businesses.
Seamless Lifestyle Transition
Indian expatriates will find it easy to adapt in Dubai. English is widely spoken, Indian food is readily available, and Indian communities are well established in various parts of the city.
What is a Free Zone in Dubai?
A Free Zone is a designated economic area in the UAE where foreign investors can fully own and operate their businesses without needing a local Emirati sponsor. There are over 40 Free Zones in the UAE, each catering to different business activities such as media, technology, finance, trade, or manufacturing.
When you set up a business in a Free Zone, you receive the following benefits:
- 100 percent ownership of the company
- Tax exemption on personal income and corporate profits up to a certain threshold
- Import and export duty exemptions within the Free Zone
- No currency restrictions
- Full repatriation of capital and profits
- Business license for specific activities
- Residency visa for the owner and employees
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Move from India to Dubai with a Free Zone Company
Let us walk you through the entire relocation process. You can complete most of these steps online with the help of a trusted Free Zone business setup service.
Step 1: Choose the Right Free Zone
Each Free Zone is tailored to specific industries. Some popular Free Zones for Indian entrepreneurs include:
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
- Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
- Dubai South
- Meydan Free Zone
- Dubai Silicon Oasis
- International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)
- Shams Free Zone (Sharjah Media City)
Factors to consider when choosing your Free Zone:
- Nature of your business activity
- Office space requirements
- Visa quota
- Budget
- Reputation and support services
If you are a freelancer, consultant, or e-commerce operator, Free Zones like Meydan, IFZA, and Shams offer excellent packages with low setup costs.
Step 2: Define Your Business Activity and License Type
Once you have chosen a Free Zone, you will need to decide on your business activity. This determines the type of license you will receive. Common license types include:
- Commercial License (for trading businesses)
- Service License (for consultants, freelancers, etc.)
- Industrial License (for manufacturing)
- Holding License (for managing assets and investments)
Some Free Zones also offer combined activities or special packages for remote businesses.
Step 3: Choose a Company Name
Your company name must follow UAE naming conventions. The name should not violate public morals, include religious references, or be identical to an existing company. Many Free Zones offer an online tool to check name availability.
Step 4: Submit Documents and Register the Company
You will need to submit a few documents to begin the setup process. These typically include:
- Passport copy
- Passport-sized photo with white background
- Entry stamp or visit visa copy (if you are already in the UAE)
- Residential address proof (optional in some Free Zones)
Some Free Zones also require a business plan, especially for regulated activities like finance or healthcare.
After submission, the Free Zone authority will review your application. Upon approval, you will receive:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Business License
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Shareholder certificate
Step 5: Apply for Your Residence Visa
Once your company license is issued, you become eligible for a UAE residence visa through your Free Zone company.
The visa process includes:
- Entry Permit: A document that allows you to enter the UAE for visa stamping
- Medical Test: Includes blood test and chest X-ray
- Emirates ID: Biometric capture and ID issuance
- Visa Stamping: Final residency visa affixed to your passport
You can sponsor yourself, your spouse, children, and even parents under your residency. Most Free Zones offer visa packages that include one to six visas, depending on your business needs.
Step 6: Open a Corporate Bank Account
With your license and Emirates ID, you can now open a corporate bank account in Dubai. Popular banks for Free Zone companies include:
- Emirates NBD
- Mashreq Bank
- RAK Bank
- WIO Bank
- ADCB
- Commercial Bank of Dubai
Some banks may require a local office lease or proof of local operations. However, digital banks like WIO are more flexible and startup-friendly.
Step 7: Move to Dubai and Finalize Relocation
Once your visa is approved and bank account is active, you can officially move to Dubai. Most Indian entrepreneurs choose to live in areas like:
- Business Bay
- Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)
- Dubai Marina
- Downtown Dubai
- Al Barsha
- Mirdif (for families)
Renting an apartment is simple and straightforward, and many Free Zone visa holders can lease on a renewable yearly basis.
You will also need to:
- Register your tenancy with Ejari (Dubai’s official rental platform)
- Set up DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority)
- Activate a local SIM card
- Set up health insurance (mandatory for all residents)
Once you complete these formalities, you are fully settled in Dubai with legal residence and a fully functional business.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While the process is straightforward, there are a few mistakes that many first-time Indian founders make.
Choosing the Wrong Free Zone
Not all Free Zones are created equal. Some are more expensive, others do not allow certain activities, and a few might be located far from Dubai city. Always speak to an advisor who can guide you based on your specific goals.
Not Planning Taxes in India
To avoid double taxation or maintain tax residency in Dubai, you must understand your tax obligations in India. This may involve filing an NRI declaration, severing residential ties, and ensuring you do not exceed 120 days in India during a financial year.
Overcomplicating Your Business Setup
Many Indian entrepreneurs try to set up holding structures, complex ownership chains, or dual-country entities without need. In most cases, a simple Free Zone company is enough. Keep it lean and scalable.
How GenZone Can Help You Set Up From Anywhere
At GenZone, they specialize in remote business setups.
Here’s what GenZone offers:
- Transparent free zone comparisons
- Remote document submission
- Dedicated support for banking, visa, and tax registration
- End-to-end business setup in as little as 3 working days
- No hidden charges, no long contracts
Want to speak to a consultant?
Book a free consultation with GenZone here
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to live in Dubai or even visit to be a UAE business owner.
With remote setup options, a supportive system, and global credibility, starting a free zone company from abroad is not just possible, it’s smarter than ever.
Whether you’re:
- A freelancer in Europe
- A consultant in India
- An e-com seller in the UK
- A crypto trader in South Africa
- You can operate from anywhere with a Dubai company license and a UAE bank account.
The world is your office. Let Dubai be your base.
Ready to start your company remotely?
Contact GenZone now and set up your UAE company from anywhere in the world.