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The United Arab Emirates continues to cement its reputation as a global business hub, particularly attractive for French and European companies looking to expand their operations into the Middle East. With its strategic location, tax incentives, robust legal infrastructure, and ease of doing business, the UAE — and especially Dubai — offers an unparalleled gateway to the Gulf region and beyond.

But entering this market requires careful legal, structural, and cultural planning. Whether you're a French startup seeking global scale, a European SME exploring new clients, or a corporate group seeking tax efficiency and asset protection, this guide breaks down what you need to know.

As Dubai cements its status as a global hub for wealth, innovation, and quality of life, long-term residency has become one of the most sought-after assets among expatriates. And at the heart of this demand lies the UAE’s Golden Visa — a program that, since its launch in 2019, has attracted entrepreneurs, investors, creatives, and skilled professionals from across the globe.

In 2025, the Golden Visa remains a powerful draw — but as with any high-value immigration scheme, understanding the latest rules, benefits, and procedures is essential.

This guide answers the key questions asked by our clients at ASTRUC & Co and offers practical advice for those considering a long-term move to the UAE.

For any foreign entrepreneur or business entering the UAE, one of the first — and most consequential — decisions is choosing between a Mainland or Free Zone setup. This isn’t just a matter of location; it affects everything from ownership rights and tax obligations to client access and future expansion.

In 2025, with corporate tax in full effect and business reforms still unfolding, understanding the pros, cons, and key differences is more critical than ever. At ASTRUC & Co, we advise clients daily on these decisions — and we’ve created this practical guide to help you navigate them with clarity and confidence.

Starting a new business in the UAE in 2025 means navigating a rapidly evolving legal environment — especially when it comes to employment law. With the UAE’s ongoing reforms to attract global talent and foster economic growth, understanding the labor law framework isn’t just a compliance issue — it’s a critical part of building a stable and competitive enterprise.

This article offers practical insights for new companies — particularly international and French-speaking entrepreneurs — on how to stay compliant with UAE labor regulations while building an efficient and legally sound workforce strategy.

Since its official implementation on 1 June 2023, the UAE corporate tax regime continues to evolve — and in 2025, it remains a top priority for both local and international businesses operating in the region. Designed to align with global standards while maintaining the UAE’s competitive business environment, the law introduces a 9% federal tax on the net profits of companies exceeding AED 375,000.

For many businesses — especially SMEs and foreign investors entering the UAE — navigating the nuances of compliance is critical. Missteps can lead to penalties, while strategic structuring can yield significant advantages.

This guide unpacks what businesses need to know in 2025 to stay compliant, optimise their tax strategy, and avoid costly oversights.