Dubai has established itself as a global business hub, offering a favorable tax regime, strategic location, and world-class infrastructure. One of the key incentives for foreign entrepreneurs and investors is the ability to obtain a UAE investor visa through company formation in Dubai. This visa allows you to live, work, and sponsor family members in the UAE while owning a business in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, or investor, understanding how the Dubai company registration process is linked to investor visa eligibility can help you make a well-informed decision. In this guide, we break down the process, requirements, costs, and benefits of obtaining an investor visa in Dubai through company setup.

What Is a UAE Investor Visa?

An investor visa in Dubai is a long-term residence visa issued to foreign nationals who invest in a business or establish a company in the UAE. It allows the holder to live and work in the country and is renewable every 2 or 3 years, depending on the visa category.

With this visa, investors can:

• Reside in the UAE legally
• Open personal and corporate bank accounts
• Sponsor family members and domestic staff
• Obtain a UAE driving license
• Access healthcare and education services

This visa is directly linked to company registration in Dubai and is a popular route for foreign entrepreneurs looking to live and do business in the UAE.

Who Is Eligible for a Dubai Investor Visa?

To qualify for an investor visa in Dubai, you generally need to meet the following criteria:

• Be the owner or shareholder of a company registered in the UAE
• Hold shares worth a minimum investment amount (usually AED 50,000 or more)
• Have the company licensed and registered with the appropriate authority
• Maintain an active company status and renew trade licenses annually

There are various visa categories available, depending on the type of business setup, whether it is a free zone, and the level of investment. Some authorities may require higher investment thresholds or additional documentation.

Company Formation Options in Dubai

To apply for an investor visa, you must first complete the Dubai company registration process. There are three main options for company setup in Dubai:

1. Mainland Company

• Regulated by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in Dubai
• Allows you to do business across the UAE and internationally
• No restrictions on office location
• Eligible for 100% foreign ownership in most sectors

2. Free Zone Company

• Set up in one of Dubai’s many free zones (like DMCC, DIFC, or Dubai South)
• 100% foreign ownership allowed
• No personal income tax or corporate tax (in most cases)
• Limited to operating within the free zone or internationally unless a local distributor is appointed

3. Offshore Company

• Primarily for international business, holding assets, or tax planning
• Not eligible for a Dubai investor visa
• Cannot operate within the UAE market

To obtain an investor visa, you must select a mainland or free zone company established in Dubai. Offshore companies do not qualify for residency visas.

Steps to Get a UAE Investor Visa Through Company Setup in Dubai

Let’s walk through the entire process step by step.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity and Legal Structure

Start by deciding on the nature of your business and the most suitable legal structure. Common legal structures include:

• Sole proprietorship
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Free zone company
• Civil company (for professionals)

Your choice of activity will determine the regulatory body and documentation required.

Step 2: Select a Jurisdiction

Choose whether to register your company in:

• Dubai Mainland
• One of the Free Zones

Each has different rules, benefits, and visa quotas. For example, free zones often include a specific number of visa slots with office packages.

Step 3: Register Your Company

Proceed with the Dubai company registration process, which generally involves:

• Name reservation
• Initial approval from the relevant authority
• Submission of documents (passport, visa, business plan, etc.)
• Signing the Memorandum of Association (for LLCs)
• Issuance of trade license

Once your license is issued, you are eligible to apply for a Dubai investor visa.

Also Read: Documents Required for Company Registration in the UK

Step 4: Apply for the Investor Visa

You can now apply for the visa under your company. The process includes:

• Entry permit application (valid for 60 days)
• Medical test and biometrics
• Emirates ID application
• Visa stamping on your passport

The visa validity is typically 2 or 3 years and can be renewed as long as the company remains active and compliant.

Step 5: Sponsor Your Family

After receiving your investor visa, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and in some cases, parents. Each dependent will have their own visa application process and documentation.

Required Documents for Investor Visa Application

While exact requirements vary by jurisdiction, common documents include:

• Passport copy
• Trade license and establishment card
• Memorandum of Association (MOA)
• Share certificate or proof of ownership
• Passport-sized photos
• Entry permit (for new applicants)
• Medical fitness test results
• Emirates ID application form

How Much Does It Cost?

The total cost for getting a Dubai investor visa through company setup depends on multiple factors such as the type of company, location (mainland vs. free zone), and number of visas needed.

Here’s a general breakdown:

• Company registration fees: AED 12,000 – AED 25,000+ (varies by free zone/mainland)
• Investor visa application: AED 3,000 – AED 5,000
• Medical and Emirates ID: AED 1,500 – AED 2,000
• Registered office (if required): AED 5,000 – AED 15,000 annually

Many free zones offer bundled packages that include business license, visa quota, and office space.

Also Read: Pre-Paper Work for Company Incorporation in Japan

Benefits of the Dubai Investor Visa

• Legal residence in the UAE
• 100% foreign business ownership
• Access to a tax-efficient environment
• Ability to open bank accounts and obtain credit
• Eligibility to sponsor dependents
• Gateway to global markets
• Reputable jurisdiction for international business

How Long Does It Take?

The complete process of company setup in Dubai and investor visa issuance typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks, assuming all documents are in order.

Some free zones offer express setup services for faster processing.

Final Thoughts

Getting a Dubai investor visa through company formation is one of the most efficient and secure ways to gain residency in the UAE while establishing a strong business presence. With streamlined regulations, full foreign ownership, and access to world-class infrastructure, Dubai offers a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors globally.

Before proceeding, it’s wise to consult with a licensed business setup consultant to help you navigate the Dubai company registration process and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Also Read: How to register a company in the Philippines?

FAQs

• Can I get an investor visa in Dubai without living there full-time?

Yes, once your visa is issued, you’re not required to live in Dubai full-time. However, you must enter the UAE at least once every 6 months to keep your residency visa active.

• Is a Dubai investor visa valid across all Emirates?

Yes, a Dubai-issued investor visa allows you to live and work anywhere in the UAE, though your business will be licensed under the Dubai jurisdiction.

• Can I apply for a Golden Visa instead of a regular investor visa?

Yes, if your investment is significantly higher (typically AED 2 million or more), you may qualify for the 10-year UAE Golden Visa. However, this has stricter eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.