Setting up in the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia — JANSSENS Law Firm, international business lawyer
Expertise
International · Gulf

UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia: setting up in the Gulf

Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Riyadh: we go there with you.

Key points

Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Riyadh: we help you choose between a mainland company and a free zone (IFZA, DMCC, JAFZA, DIFC, ADGM…), structure ownership from Belgium or Europe, secure your contracts with local partners and provide for dispute resolution from the outset. We do not simply refer you to a correspondent: we come on site with you and work alongside our local correspondents, who advise on local law. A single point of contact, on both sides of the border.

Frequently asked questions

What you need to know

Mainland or free zone in the UAE?

Since 2021, 100% foreign ownership has been possible for most mainland activities. Free zones (IFZA, DMCC, JAFZA, DIFC, ADGM…) offer fast procedures and their own regimes, but in principle restrict direct activity on the local market. The choice depends on your business, your customers and your tax position.

How is a company taxed in the UAE?

Corporate tax of 9% above a profit threshold, since June 2023. Certain free zone companies may benefit from a 0% rate on their qualifying income, subject to strict substance requirements: it is not automatic, and not all free zones give access to it. These rules must be aligned with the director's tax residence and Belgian law.

How are commercial disputes resolved in the Gulf?

Most often through arbitration, or before the common law courts of the DIFC and ADGM. The UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia are parties to the New York Convention, which facilitates the enforcement of arbitral awards. The dispute resolution clause is negotiated when the contract is signed.

Setting up in Saudi Arabia: what are the steps?

Obtaining an investment licence from the Ministry of Investment, then incorporating the company. To contract with public entities, you must also have a regional headquarters in the Kingdom (RHQ programme). We prepare these steps with our correspondents on the ground.

Our services

What we handle

Choice of jurisdiction: mainland or free zone
Company formation and licences
Structuring ownership from Belgium or Europe
Tax residence and expatriation of the director
Contracts with local partners, agents and distributors
Arbitration and litigation (DIFC, ADGM, international arbitration)
On-site support with our local correspondents

Let's talk about your project

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