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FAQ's - Gulf Core Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about business setup, company formation, visas, compliance, accounting, and expansion support in Dubai, the UAE, and the wider GCC.
What services does Gulf Core Services provide?
Gulf Core Services supports entrepreneurs, investors, and international companies with business setup, company formation, Employer of Record services, visa and immigration support, legal documentation, accounting, auditing, and ongoing compliance across the UAE and GCC.
How can I start a business in Dubai?
Starting a business in Dubai generally involves selecting the right business activity, choosing a suitable jurisdiction and legal structure, reserving a trade name, obtaining required approvals, submitting the necessary documents, and completing the licensing process.
For a detailed overview, visit our Business Setup in Dubai service page.
Should I choose Mainland or Free Zone company formation in Dubai?
The right option depends on your business activity, target customers, office requirements, visa needs, and long-term plans.
Mainland structures can suit businesses that want broad access to the UAE market, while Free Zones may offer streamlined setup options and specialised business ecosystems.
Can foreign investors own 100% of a business in the UAE?
100% foreign ownership is available for many business activities and company structures in the UAE. However, the applicable ownership requirements depend on the business activity, jurisdiction, and regulatory framework.
The appropriate structure should be confirmed before starting the incorporation process.
What documents are usually required for company formation in Dubai?
Requirements vary by jurisdiction and activity, but commonly requested documents may include:
Passport copies of shareholders
Passport-size photographs where required
Contact and residential details
Proposed company names
Business activity details
UAE visa or Emirates ID copies where applicable
Corporate documents where a shareholder is another company
Additional approvals may be required for regulated activities.
How long does company formation in Dubai take?
The timeline depends on the jurisdiction, business activity, required approvals, documentation, and licensing authority.
Straightforward company setups may be completed relatively quickly, while regulated activities or structures requiring external approvals can take longer.
How much does it cost to set up a business in Dubai?
There is no single fixed business setup cost in Dubai. The total cost depends on factors such as:
Business activity
Mainland or Free Zone selection
Licence type
Number of shareholders
Visa requirements
Office or workspace requirements
Government and authority fees
Additional approvals
Gulf Core Services can help assess the appropriate setup route and provide guidance based on your specific requirements.
Do businesses in the UAE pay Corporate Tax?
The UAE has a federal Corporate Tax regime that applies to businesses subject to the Corporate Tax Law. The tax treatment depends on factors such as the type of entity, taxable income, exemptions, and whether a business qualifies for specific Free Zone treatment.
Free Zone businesses are not automatically exempt from Corporate Tax. Qualifying Free Zone Persons may benefit from a 0% rate on certain Qualifying Income if the applicable conditions are met. Businesses should review their obligations based on their specific structure and activities.
Are Free Zone companies required to register for Corporate Tax?
Free Zone entities are generally required to register and file Corporate Tax returns, even where they may qualify for preferential Free Zone tax treatment.
The applicable tax rate depends on the company’s activities, income, and whether the conditions for Qualifying Free Zone Person status are satisfied.
Can Gulf Core Services help with UAE residence and employment visas?
Yes. Gulf Core Services can assist with relevant investor, partner, and employment visa processes as part of business setup and ongoing company support.
Visa eligibility and requirements depend on the company structure, licence, office arrangements, and applicable immigration regulations.
Can Gulf Core Services help with corporate bank account applications?
Yes. Gulf Core Services can assist businesses in preparing and organising the documentation required for corporate bank account applications.
Final account approval remains subject to the bank’s own compliance, due diligence, and risk assessment procedures.
Does Gulf Core Services provide accounting and auditing support?
Yes. Gulf Core Services provides support for accounting, financial reporting, auditing, and related compliance requirements depending on the business structure and jurisdiction.
Maintaining accurate financial records is important for both regulatory compliance and ongoing business management.
What is an Employer of Record service?
An Employer of Record, or EOR, allows a company to employ workers in a market through an authorised local employment structure without immediately establishing its own local employing entity.
The EOR typically supports employment administration, payroll, and applicable compliance processes while the client company manages the employee’s day-to-day responsibilities.
Does Gulf Core Services provide Employer of Record services in the GCC?
Yes. Gulf Core Services supports EOR requirements across selected GCC markets, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, depending on the employment and operational requirements.
Can Gulf Core Services support businesses expanding into Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Gulf Core Services supports businesses planning to establish or expand operations in Saudi Arabia, including company setup, employment support, documentation, and other relevant market-entry services.
Requirements vary depending on the business activity and proposed structure.
Can Gulf Core Services assist with legal documentation and company amendments?
Yes. Gulf Core Services provides support for corporate documentation, amendments, and related company administration requirements.
The exact process depends on the type of amendment, company structure, and relevant authority.
Does Gulf Core Services only work with companies in Dubai?
No. Gulf Core Services supports businesses across the UAE and wider GCC, as well as selected international jurisdictions depending on the service required.
Why work with Gulf Core Services?
Gulf Core Services provides end-to-end support across business setup, company formation, visas, employment solutions, legal documentation, accounting, and compliance.
Our approach focuses on understanding each company’s business model and expansion requirements before recommending an appropriate structure and support plan.
How can I speak with a Gulf Core consultant?
You can contact Gulf Core Services through the website enquiry form, phone, or WhatsApp to discuss your business setup, company formation, EOR, visa, accounting, or GCC expansion requirements.