Where to buy luxury property in Dubai: a review of the best locations

The Emirates is no longer associated only with luxury holidays and skyscrapers. The country is impressing with its pace of development and large-scale projects, rapidly establishing itself as one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs. The unique combination of high living comfort, efficient infrastructure and ambitious government policy creates an exceptional environment for entrepreneurs. What exactly are the practical advantages of starting and developing a business in the UAE that make it so attractive? Let’s understand the specific advantages of the jurisdiction.

Dubai: a business oasis in the desert

A city where skyscrapers compete for attention not with nature, but with investment portfolios. The pros of doing business in the Emirates take on density right here.

Dubai provides:

• instant access to markets in Asia, Europe, Africa;
• developed logistics through Jebel Ali, the largest port in the Middle East;
• business infrastructure network: from co-working centres to technology incubators.

Business in Dubai is not limited to luxury – it lives in concrete terms. Export-oriented companies here earn an average of 17 per cent more than in comparable regions, thanks to low costs and the absence of hidden taxes.

Whether to open a business in the UAE: pros and cons

The cost of mistakes in choosing a jurisdiction directly affects the viability of a company. In the Emirates, businesses do not make promises, but concrete processes – fast, regulated and result-oriented. Here, comfort is not promised – it is created normatively. Business in the UAE demonstrates its advantages through real mechanisms, not theoretical conveniences:

1. Startup speed. Free Zone FZ-LLC form is registered in 48 hours. Licence – another 24 hours.
2. Transparent tax environment. No income tax up to 375,000 AED (≈100,000 USD), 9% rate – above this amount.
3. Flexibility of Free Zones. More than 45 free economic zones allow you to choose the conditions by type of activity, visa quota, access to foreign markets.

Example: the DMCC is an area that serves over 22,000 companies specialising in trading, technology, cryptocurrency. This is where 200+ new businesses are registered per month.

Minuses of doing business in the UAE

Behind the facade of tax incentives and business forums are details that are easy to miss. The mistaken perception of the Emirates as a universal comfort zone quickly collides with reality. Entrepreneurship in the Emirates is affirming, but only if you are prepared to consider the other side of the coin.

The minuses of business in the UAE affect:

• high cost of business (opening a company in DMCC – from 11,000 USD);
• The need to consider the culture of negotiation, especially in B2B (high context, preference for personal contacts);
• difficult adaptation to the climate – in summer temperatures reach 50°C, which increases energy costs and reduces the effectiveness of outdoor advertising.

The conditions are not critical, but require adaptation and calculation. Ignoring these factors increases risks and inhibits development, especially in the first 12 months of launch.

Visa, staff and communications

UAE visa for a business owner is issued for up to 10 years (Golden Visa). Personnel require separate sponsorship and quotas. Managing a team requires precise calculation – mistakes are costly.

Employees from the Philippines, India, Egypt and Lebanon form the core of recruitment. The average salary of an office specialist – from 2500 AED (≈680 USD), manager – from 10 000 AED.

The language of communication is English. Arabic is symbolic, important in legal documents and negotiations with government agencies.

Marketing and profit without illusions

Without advertising, commercial projects in the Emirates are sinking in the golden sand. In a highly competitive environment, the one who invests in digital wins.

Advertising in Google and Meta gives up to 6x ROI if properly adjusted to local specifics. For the offline segment, billboards in areas with a high density of expats are effective.

Business profits in property, logistics and e-commerce can reach 25-40% per annum, especially when entering the Saudi and Qatari markets through exports to the United Arab Emirates.

Exports to UAE

The pros of doing business in the UAE are enhanced by the export factor. Demand for quality products, technology and services continues to grow.

Exports to the UAE are showing momentum, with foreign trade exceeding AED 1.1 trillion in 2023. The main destinations are food products, construction materials, IT solutions and pharmaceuticals.

Entering the GCC market opens the door for exporters to the GCC, a region with a total GDP of over $2 trillion. Registering a company within the country facilitates certification of goods and participation in tenders.

Market and revenue: what a growth strategy works with

The pros of business in the UAE are revealed through income and flexibility. The average income of small companies in logistics is 1.2-1.5 million AED per year, and in retail – 800,000 AED.

The market is not oversaturated but requires adaptation to local preferences. Template import of ideas does not work – adaptation wins here.

Survival formula: localised product + digital strategy + good PR packaging. Case: a cosmetics brand from South Korea entered the UAE market in 2022, increasing sales by 300% through a TikTok campaign and collaboration with local Influencers.

Evaluate the pros of doing business in UAE and make a decision!

As our review shows, the Emirates offers significant advantages for entrepreneurs: fast company registration in free zones (e.g. FZ-LLC in a matter of days), a transparent tax environment with a threshold for zero corporate tax rate (up to ~100,000 USD), and Dubai’s strategic position with access to markets in Asia, Europe and Africa, backed by excellent logistics via Jebel Ali port. Opportunities for growth through exports to GCC countries and high profit potential in sought-after niches such as logistics, real estate or e-commerce are real here, especially with a sound digital marketing strategy.

However, it is important to approach the decision without illusions. Consider significant start-up costs (opening a company in popular areas like DMCC requires significant investment), high competition requiring product customisation and sophisticated marketing, and the need to understand local business practices and adapt to climatic conditions that affect operating costs.

Moving to the UAE for permanent residence from Russia offers Russians unique prospects for professional growth, improved living standards and cultural enrichment. The United Arab Emirates is a country that combines ultra-modern technology and ancient traditions, which makes it an attractive place to migrate to. Before making such a decision, it is important to study in depth the peculiarities of living in the state, available visa programmes and adaptation conditions.

Peculiarities of life in the UAE: what is important to know before moving for permanent residence from Russia

Life in the Emirates is radically different from the usual way of life in Russia. This country offers not only the highest level of security and a tax-free economy, but also cultural norms that require respect and adaptation.

Islamic traditions prevail in the state, which affects everyday life. For example, dress code rules are strictly enforced in public places, especially for women. Alcohol consumption is only possible in licensed establishments, and behaviour on public holidays is regulated by local laws. It is important to note that in large cities, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, customs are more flexible, making adaptation easier for migrants.

A comfortable standard of living is a key factor in attractiveness. The Emirates offer quality medicine, education, world-class infrastructure and entertainment. But the cost of living is one of the highest in the world. For example:

1. Rental accommodation in Dubai: AED 3,000 to 5,000 for a studio flat ($820 to $1,370).
2. Food: lunch at a mid-range café costs around 50 dirhams ($14).
3. Transport: metro fares start at 3 dirhams ($0.8), which is relatively affordable.

Main types of visas for permanent residence in the Arab Emirates

Moving to the UAE for permanent residence from Russia requires a long-term visa. Despite the lack of classic status, the country offers several options for a long-term stay.

UAE Golden Visa

The format provides eligibility for a 10-year residency. The programme is designed for investors, entrepreneurs, highly qualified professionals and students with outstanding achievements. Eligibility conditions: investment of AED 2 million or more in property or skills in in-demand industries such as IT, medicine or engineering.

Residence permit for the purchase of real estate

This type of visa is available on the purchase of a property valued at AED 1 million or more. Owners of such property receive a temporary residence right, which is renewed every 2-3 years.

Work visa

Labour migration is one of the most common ways to obtain a residence permit in the Emirates. The employer provides the necessary documents, and after employment a residence permit is issued.

Visa for freelancers

This programme actively supports professionals working remotely. The format is suitable for programmers, designers, marketers. In order to apply, it is necessary to confirm professional status and income.

Comparison of Emirates for life and work: what’s behind moving to the UAE for permanent residence from Russia

Each emirate offers unique conditions for migrants. The choice depends on the purpose of relocation: career, comfortable living or business.

Dubai: economic centre

Dubai is known as the world’s business and tourist centre. It is home to international companies, banks and investment funds.

1. Advantages: high salary, developed infrastructure, international community.
2. Disadvantages: high rental costs and intense pace of life.

Abu Dhabi: Capital of Culture

Abu Dhabi offers more opportunities for family living, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and quality government services.

1. Advantages: stability, high salaries in public sectors.
2. Disadvantages: limited entertainment compared to Dubai.

Sharjah: a budget choice

Sharjah is attractive to those looking for affordable accommodation. It has strict laws, but the emirate is close to Dubai.

1. Advantages: low rental cost, convenient location.
2. Disadvantages: strict social rules.

Pros of moving to the UAE for permanent residence from Russia

One of the biggest advantages is the absence of personal income taxes. The country has no income tax, which allows migrants to keep most of their earnings. There are also attractive tax conditions for companies, making the state a centre for business and investment. This advantage is particularly relevant for entrepreneurs and highly paid professionals who can maximise their income.

High level of security

The UAE is a leader in terms of security. The state strictly controls law and order, which makes it an ideal place for families to live. The crime rate in the country is one of the lowest in the world. The police promptly respond to any incidents, and CCTV cameras are installed at almost every step.

Developed infrastructure

Modern hospitals with highly trained staff, convenient public transport including metro and buses, and world-class schools and universities all make the Emirates a convenient place to live. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are renowned for their innovative approaches to urbanism: skyscrapers are being built, artificial islands are being created and smart technologies are being developed.

Attractive climate

Winter is characterised by mildness and comfort. Temperatures rarely drop below 20 degrees Celsius, which is attractive for beach holidays all year round. For lovers of sun and sea, moving to the UAE for permanent residence will be a real gift, especially given the long winters in Russia.

Opportunities for career growth

Emirates is actively developing in such industries as IT, medicine, engineering and finance. The high demand for qualified specialists creates excellent conditions for career growth. In addition, large international companies locate their offices in the UAE, offering competitive salaries and working conditions.

Minuses of moving to the UAE for permanent residence from Russia

Summers in the country can be extremely hot. Temperatures often exceed 40 degrees and the humidity makes it almost impossible to stay outdoors. During this period, people prefer to stay in air-conditioned rooms, which imposes restrictions on active lifestyles.

Cultural constraints

The UAE is an Islamic state where local traditions play a key role in public life. For example, there are strict restrictions on public displays of affection, alcohol consumption and dress codes. For a comfortable stay, migrants need to respect local customs and obey laws, which may require a certain level of adaptation.

Conclusion

Moving to the UAE for permanent residence from Russia opens up opportunities for career growth, financial stability and a high standard of living for Russians. It is necessary to take into account the peculiarities of living in the country, cultural differences and the requirements of visa programmes. The Emirates are ready to offer a unique experience combining modernity and tradition, but the success of adaptation depends on careful preparation and the choice of a suitable region.