Doing business in the UAE: how to enter the market
and secure your niche
We help your business enter the UAE market based on in-depth market research and analysis
We will create a profitable positioning and a step-by-step business plan for you
With our support, you can save thousands of dollars when entering the UAE market
Our services
We collect up-to-date statistics,
information, and facts to help your business
successfully enter the UAE market
We collect up-to-date statistics,
information, and facts to help your business
successfully enter the UAE market
Indeso researches the UAE market and cultural specifics
to help you launch your business with minimal costs
Indeso conducts market research and provides business consulting. We collect only verified information, up-to-date statistics, and analyze facts to help your company successfully enter the UAE.
We help you gain a deep understanding of the market situation and your target audience. With us, you can reduce risks and save on business launch costs because you will have a high-quality business plan and an effective positioning strategy.
20+
years
helping companies expand into new markets
100+
businesses
successfully expanded into Asia, Europe, and American markets with our support
10+
experts
work with us, each having completed a rigorous 5-step selection process
10 000+
dollars
saved on average when expanding into new markets
It is important to us that your business achieves real results. That’s why we provide high-quality research and analysis, develop effective positioning and business plans for you, and offer consulting at every stage of your launch.
Indeso’s team of consultants, with over 20 years of experience, helps companies gain a detailed understanding of the UAE market, study their audience’s needs, and launch a business in a new country with minimal financial risk.
- • We are practitioners, not theorists. Many of us have created and developed our own businesses, so we know how to achieve growth even in new markets.
- • We possess international expertise. Experience working in Europe, Asia, and America allows us to adapt strategies to different cultures and business models.
- • We have world-class education. All consultants hold master’s degrees in strategy, management, or international business from leading global schools.
- • We deliver real results. Companies we work with increase their profits by an average of 30% or more within the first year.
- • We have experience with industry leaders. Our specialists have carried out consulting and strategic projects for Tetra Pak, Ernst & Young, Sberbank, HSBC, and other international companies.
- • We have a global mindset. We speak multiple languages fluently and know how to build effective communication in multicultural environments.
What are the advantages of the UAE market?
The most popular economic regions in the UAE
Dubai
Advantages
Best use for
A major business, financial, trade, and tourism hub. A global leader in foreign capital, making it an attractive location for business expansion and investment.
Advantages
Simple company registration process, low tax rates, developed infrastructure and logistics, and a high percentage of foreign capital and potential partners.
Best use for
IT companies, industrial organizations, financial corporations and fintech companies, research institutions, online and offline retail companies, service businesses, restaurants, educational institutions, and businesses in the arts and beauty sectors.
Abu Dhabi
Advantages
Best use for
The capital of the UAE and the country’s wealthiest emirate, serving as an international financial center. It is an attractive location for entrepreneurs and investors seeking new markets.
Advantages
Government support programs, a favorable business climate, fast licensing processes, and an entrepreneur-friendly system of taxes and duties.
Best use for
Oil and gas sector, energy, public procurement, information and communication technologies, tourism, online and offline retail companies, businesses in the arts and beauty sectors, restaurants, and educational institutions.
Sharjah
Advantages
Best use for
The third-largest city, home to one of the UAE’s most important ports, which simplifies logistics for businesses. A cultural and industrial center of the United Arab Emirates.
Advantages
Affordable industrial space rentals, no import or export taxes, a strategic location near air and sea ports, and a wide range of business licenses.
Best use for
Factories, manufacturing plants, IT companies, service businesses, trade and logistics companies. Alcohol-related businesses are prohibited.
Key information for registering a business in the UAE
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
100% foreign ownership is allowed
1 shareholder
No
Depends on the type of activity
1-4 weeks
5%, but for certain companies 0% or VAT exemption applies
9%
5%, but for certain companies 0% or VAT exemption applies
9%
The importance of market analysis for launching a business in the UAE
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Avoid critical mistakes and financial losses when launching a business in the UAE
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Assess the current and potential market size for your products or services
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Develop a product promotion strategy considering the mindset of local residents and expatriates
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Understand the differences between various free economic zones in the UAE and choose the most suitable one
Market and target audience research is needed to:
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Determine the business registration requirements in the UAE and the necessary investment amount
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Identify the licenses and permits required for your business
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Evaluate the demand for your product in the UAE market and the average purchase value
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Understand the preferences, habits, and needs of UAE residents to create effective positioning
Risks and challenges of doing business in the UAE
without market research
Plan to enter the UAE market?
Schedule a free consultation
During the consultation, you will receive valuable insights for your business:
Schedule a consultation-
Quick analysis to determine your company’s readiness to enter the UAE market
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Checklist: "How to Save Thousands of Dollars When Entering the UAE Market"
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Demonstration of a sample research report to showcase the detail and depth of our work
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Answers to your questions
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Quick analysis to determine your company’s readiness to enter the UAE market
-
Checklist: "How to Save Thousands of Dollars When Entering the UAE Market"
-
Demonstration of a sample research report to showcase the detail and depth of our work
-
Answers to your questions
Results our clients get
Who will benefit from the UAE market analysis
Companies looking to enter the UAE market
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Gain insights into the new market and target audience
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Expand your customer base and increase business profitability
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Learn to conduct negotiations taking into account the culture and mindset of the UAE
Entrepreneurs looking to start business in the UAE
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Evaluate which emirate is best suited for your niche and where the infrastructure is most convenient
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Understand how to save on startup costs and what growth prospects await your company in the UAE market
Start up founders and experts
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Under the guidance of an expert, you will determine the right niche and business model, thoroughly develop a growth strategy, and successfully enter the UAE market
Testimonials
Contacts
Frequently asked questions
How can the UAE market research help my business?
Market research will help you make fewer mistakes at the start and successfully launch your business in a new market with minimal financial losses. You will gain a complete understanding of your company’s growth prospects, be able to forecast the average transaction value and potential revenue. You will also learn how to differentiate from competitors and create effective positioning based on in-depth market and target audience analysis.
Can my company be 100% foreign-owned in the UAE?
Yes, most business activities in the UAE allow 100% foreign ownership, especially in free zones.
What are the key steps to establish a business in Dubai for foreigns?
To establish a business in Dubai, foreign investors need to choose the appropriate business structure (e.g., LLC, Free Zone company, or branch office), obtain the necessary licenses, register with the relevant authorities, and comply with local regulations. Support from local consultants can help navigate legal requirements, select the best location, and streamline administrative procedures, ensuring a smooth and compliant market entry.
How long does it take to prepare the research?
A full market research typically takes about 3 weeks on average. The timeframe may vary depending on the complexity and scope of the work. We will provide an exact timeline after discussing all the details.
What is the difference between a Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore company in the UAE?
Mainland (Onshore): Can trade across the UAE market, but may require local partner depending on activity.
Free Zone: Allows 100% foreign ownership, limited to business within the zone or internationally.
Offshore: Primarily for holding companies, investments, and international trade; cannot trade within the UAE market.
Can I get multiple business activities under one license in the UAE?
Yes, a single license often allows multiple related activities. Some free zones may charge extra fees for additional activities.
Can a UAE company owner also get a Golden Visa or long-term residency?
Yes, investors meeting certain criteria or startup founders can obtain long-term visas (5–10 years).
How long does it take to set up a company in the UAE?
Free Zone: Usually 1–2 weeks (depending on zone and business type).
Mainland: 2–4 weeks, considering approvals, office lease, and licensing.
Offshore: 3–7 days on average.
Markets we study