Thanks to recent economic reforms that have changed the investment landscape in Brazil, an increasing number of business owners are considering scaling across borders. Dubai continues to be a sought-after destination for entrepreneurs from across the globe looking to expand internationally. With its prime geographical location, booming economy, and business-friendly policies, Dubai presents Brazilian entrepreneurs with the opportunity to access a lucrative market. If you are dreaming of broadening your horizons but don’t know where to start, don’t worry. Our step-by-step guide will show you exactly how Brazilians can start a business in Dubai in 2025.
Why Brazilians are choosing Dubai to start a business
There is a growing list of reasons why Brazilians are choosing to start a business in Dubai. Here are a few of the top ones:
Pioneering economic collaboration
Over the past few years, business relations between Brazil and the UAE have strengthened considerably. Today, Brazil is seen as a vital South American trade partner for the UAE. This relationship is creating many opportunities for entrepreneurs, especially in sectors like agribusiness, renewable energy, and technology.
Access to global markets
Dubai boasts a fantastic geographical location right in the middle of big global markets in Asia, Africa, and Europe. When you start a business in Dubai, you will find yourself in a convenient position to easily reach clients in many countries across several continents.
Business-friendly environment
Dubai’s business environment is conducive to long-term success. With its state-of-the-art infrastructure, business-friendly policies, and stable political landscape, starting and running a business in Dubai is a dream come true for Brazilian entrepreneurs. With the government being very supportive of new business enterprises, entrepreneurs are confident to bring their expertise and funding to the UAE.
Unmatched tax benefits
Compared to the Brazilian tax structure, Dubai has an extremely favorable tax system. Individuals can retain 100% of their earnings due to a zero personal tax policy while businesses established in Dubai’s free zones can also benefit from 0% tax on qualifying amounts. Even when your profits exceed AED 375,000, you will only pay up to 9% corporate tax.
Choose your business activity and legal structure
The importance of choosing the right business activity and legal structure for your business cannot be highlighted enough. Make sure the activity you choose from the DET’s activity list is accurate. You will also have to choose a legal structure that is aligned with the long-term goals and operational requirements of your business. If you want to enjoy the flexibility to operate across the UAE (and abroad) and also apply for government contracts, a mainland Limited Liability Company (LLC) is ideal. Free Zone Entities (FZEs) are best-suited to entrepreneurs that want swift setups and many benefits. If you are a freelancer or professional offering specialized services, a sole proprietorship may be the best option for you.
Mainland vs free zone: What’s better for Brazilian entrepreneurs?
When starting a business in Dubai, you have to choose a suitable business structure. Brazilian entrepreneurs generally have two options to choose from: mainland and free zone.
Mainland companies
When you establish a mainland company you can operate across the country, sign contracts without restrictions, and even open branches. With many activities now also making provision for 100% foreign ownership, mainland setups are becoming increasingly accessible to Brazilian entrepreneurs.
Free zone companies
Brazilian entrepreneurs who want to own 100% of their companies and repatriate all their profits, may benefit most from establishing a free zone company. Setup is generally fast and uncomplicated and businesses focused on tech, marketing, international trade, imports/exports, and e-commerce can benefit from the flexible structure. Free zone companies are restricted when it comes to direct trade with UAE mainland, unless you have a local partner or distributor.
Mainland and free zone companies both have their advantages and disadvantages. Weigh up your options carefully and choose the structure that best aligns with your own personal goals.
Step-by-step process to register your company in Dubai
Step 1. Choose a business activity and legal structure
Start by deciding exactly what your business will do. Brazilian expertise is known to be in high demand in sectors such as technology, construction, food and beverage, and sustainability. Once you have defined your primary business activity, find its closest match on the list provided by the DET. Afterwards you will decide whether to set up on the mainland, in a free zone, or offshore.
Step 2. Decide on a trade name
Deciding on a name for your business is very exciting. There are, however, some guidelines to adhere to when choosing the name. Your name will not be approved unless it is unique, relevant to your business, and free from religious or offensive terms. Experts suggest that you come up with at least three suitable names and then check with either the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or relevant free zone authority whether they are available. If the name you choose is available and meets all the requirements, you can formally register it as your trade name.
Step 3. Compile and legalize your documents
While compiling documents and submitting them for approval may not be as exciting as choosing a name for your business, it remains a very important step. You will need copies of all shareholders’ passports, your business plan, lease agreement (if applicable), and the completed application forms. Brazil is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention which simplifies the legalizing of your documents a lot. Getting an ‘Apostille’ stamp on your documents will make them valid in Dubai.
If any of your documents need to be translated from Portuguese into English or Arabic, you will have to enlist the services of a certified, legal translator in the UAE.
Step 4. Get initial approval and your trade license
When your documents are compiled and stamped, you can submit them for initial approval. You will request approval from either the DET or the relevant free zone authority. Initial approval indicates that the UAE government approves your business idea and is allowing you to proceed with the remainder of the business setup steps. Once initial approval is granted, you need to apply for your business license. The type of license you apply for will be determined by your business activity.
Step 5. Lease a suitable office space
When setting up a business in Dubai, you will need a physical address. Don’t be tempted to sign a lease for a big, expensive space right away. There are many budget-friendly, flexible options available, especially if you are setting up your business in a free zone.
Step 6. Open a corporate bank account
Once you have your license, you need to open a bank account for your business. There are many esteemed banking service providers to choose from including Emirates NBD, Mashreq, and the Commercial Bank of Dubai.
Something to remember: When transferring money from Brazil to Dubai, you have to adhere to the regulations of the Central Bank of Brazil. This includes registering your investments abroad to make sure you comply with all Brazilian financial regulations.
Step 7. Organize your visa and Emirates ID
The next step you need to focus on is getting your residency sorted. You can apply for either an investor or partner visa which will allow you to legally live and work in Dubai. Your visa is renewable and will be valid for up to three years. It will also allow you to get an Emirates ID. If your investment is bigger, you can consider a 10-year Golden Visa which is available to entrepreneurs investing AED 2 million or more. Once you have your own residency visa, you can consider sponsoring family members and employees.
Step 8. Remain compliant in Dubai and Brazil
When starting a business in Dubai as a Brazilian, you have to be familiar with your tax responsibilities both in Dubai and Brazil. Brazil and the UAE have an agreement in place that is known as the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) which will prevent you from being taxed twice on the same income. Brazil has also removed the UAE from its list of low-tax jurisdictions which simplifies financial reporting between the two countries.
Visa options for Brazilian entrepreneurs in Dubai
Let’s have a more in-depth look at the visa options available to Brazilian entrepreneurs in Dubai:
Investor visas – Available to business owners who are in possession of a valid trade license. They are generally valid for 3 years and allow you to sponsor family members.
Employment visa/partner visa – If your company is an LLC, or if you’re a partner in a business on the mainland, you can apply for a visa that’s linked to your job or your ownership stake.
Freelance / Self-Employment Visa – These visas are perfect for Brazilian freelancers and solo entrepreneurs and are available through specific free zones. Residency is granted for 1-3 years and will allow you to work with multiple clients.
Golden Visa (Long-Term Residency) – If you are an investor or entrepreneur investing more than AED 2 million, you can apply for a Golden Visa. This type of visa will grant your residency for between five and ten years.
You have to apply for the right visa if you want to live and work legally in Dubai. Failing to do so can result in hefty fines and legal prosecution.
How much does it cost to start a business in Dubai as a Brazilian?
The cost of starting a business in Dubai as a Brazilian depends on many things such as location, business activities and structure, and licensing and visa requirements. Here is a breakdown of estimated expenses:
- Licensing fees: AED 18,350 – AED 55,050 (varies by jurisdiction and activity)
- Office space (where applicable): AED 29,360 – AED 91,750 per year
- Visas and residency expenses: AED 3,670 – AED 11,010 per person
- Local sponsor fees (where needed): AED 18,350 – AED 44,040 per year
Other costs to keep in mind when setting up a business in Dubai includes utilities and maintenance, bank charges, and insurance fees.
Documents required to start a business in Dubai for Brazilians
Compiling a series of important documents and submitting them to various authorities are important steps in establishing a new business in Dubai.
The exact documents you will need will depend on the nature of your business. Here is a breakdown of the most common documents you may need.
- Valid Brazilian passport copies: Clear copies of the valid Brazilian passports of all shareholders/partners.
- Business plan: A strong business plan is a great asset to any entrepreneur. It contains information such as your short and long term goals, competitor analysis, and operational plan.
- Memorandum of Association (MoA): Another important document containing key pieces of information about your business.
- Trade license: A license issued either by the DET (for mainland businesses) or the relevant free zone authorities.
- Office tenancy agreement & Ejari certificate: To get your business license, you need to provide a physical business address. If you are setting up your business on the mainland, you will need an Ejari certificate. Free zone tenancy certificates are available through the applicable free zone authorities.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start a company in Dubai from Brazil?
Yes, you can start a company in Dubai from Brazil. Free zones are ideal for setting up a business remotely and also offer 100% foreign ownership. You may have to travel to Dubai to complete certain steps like opening a corporate bank account.
Do I need a local partner to open a company in Dubai?
If you are setting up your business on the mainland, you may require a local partner. If you are establishing your business in one for Dubai’s free zones, you are entitled to full foreign ownership.
What are the best free zones for Brazilians?
There are many good free zones to choose from as a Brazilian, depending on the nature of your business. Some of the most popular choices include Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), Dubai Internet City (DIC), Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), and Meydan Free Zone.
How long does the business setup take?
The exact time it takes to set up a business from start to finish in Dubai, depends on the type of business you are starting and whether you are setting it up on the mainland or in a free zone. Generally, free zone companies can take up to two weeks to set up while mainland companies can take up to 2 months.
About Set Hub
Dubai is filled with opportunities for Brazilians looking to start a business in a booming, business-friendly market. Expanding your business to a new country can be overwhelming. Luckily, Set Hub’s multilingual, passionate team is standing by to help you navigate any obstacles that you might encounter. With more than a decade of experience in bringing the dreams of entrepreneurs to life, we will do everything in our power to make your business setup in Dubai as swift and streamlined as possible.