Business Relocation Services from Cyprus to Dubai, UAE

Relocating a corporate entity from Cyprus to the United Arab Emirates represents a strategic shift from an EU-regulated environment to a high-growth Middle Eastern financial hub. For founders, SMEs, and international groups, this transition requires navigating the complex interplay between Cypriot exit requirements—such as tax de-registration and cross-border merger regulations—and the UAE’s distinct fiscal framework. Our advisory practice ensures that the move is legally compliant, mitigating risks associated with tax residency, exit charges, and operational continuity.

We assist business owners and corporate leaders in managing the full scope of this migration. Whether you are restructuring an existing Cypriot Investment Firm (CIF) or moving a holding company, our team manages the legal nuances of the UAE market. From the dissolution or redomiciliation of Cyprus entities to the business setup of new structures in Dubai, our objective is to ensure your entry into the new country is strategically sound.

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End-to-End Business Relocation Solutions

Business relocation is a lifecycle event that demands synchronized execution across both origin and destination jurisdictions. A fragmented approach, where the setup in Dubai is handled without considering the exit implications in Cyprus, can lead to regulatory friction or double taxation. We distinguish between general advice and practical execution, offering an end-to-end pathway that coordinates every phase of the move. We tailor our approach to your specific needs, ensuring that as you relocate, your financial and legal standing remains robust.

Our comprehensive relocation services cover the following critical phases:

Feasibility & Structuring: Analysis of free zone versus mainland options based on specific business activities and compliance requirements.
Cyprus Exit Strategy: Advisory on potential exit taxes, notifying the Registrar of Companies in Nicosia, and managing fiscal de-registration.
Entity Formation: Execution of company registration in Dubai, including Memorandum of Association drafting and license issuance.
Operational Migration: Coordination of infrastructure setup, office leasing, and transfer of intellectual property.
Residency & Visas: Management of investor visas, eligibility assessments for Golden Visas, and expat integration.

Why Companies Relocate from Cyprus to Dubai

The decision to move to Dubai is frequently driven by a desire for enhanced global connectivity and fiscal efficiency. While Cyprus offers a competitive 12.5% corporate tax rate and EU access, Dubai offers a central geographic hub connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa with a standard 9% Corporate Tax rate (0% for qualifying free zone income). Businesses seeking to optimize their global footprint often find the UAE to be a more dynamic environment for trade and finance.

The following table outlines the primary drivers for relocating from Cyprus to the UAE:

Decision Driver	Cyprus Context	Dubai / UAE Context
Corporate Taxation	12.5% standard rate; complex IP box regime rules.	Standard 9% rate; 0% for Qualifying Free Zone Persons on qualifying income.
Personal Taxation	Progressive rates up to 35% (exemptions for non-domiciled).	0% personal income tax on salaries and dividends.
Market Access	Gateway to the EU Single Market.	Strategic financial hub connecting the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.
Banking	EU banking regulations; stricter scrutiny on non-EU transactions.	Global trade hub with sophisticated banking for international business.

Key Challenges in Cross-Border Business Relocation

Moving your business across international borders introduces specific risks if not managed with professional oversight. The primary challenge lies in the dual-jurisdiction exposure during the transition period. For example, failing to properly shift the "place of effective management" from Limassol or Nicosia to Dubai can unintentionally trigger tax residency rules in Cyprus. Furthermore, failure to adhere to the UAE's Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) or Anti-Money Laundering (AML) laws can result in significant penalties from the regulatory authorities. Common challenges include:

Tax Residency Conflicts:

Ensuring the management control shifts clearly to the Emirate to avoid dual taxation.

Banking Complexity:

Navigating strict KYC protocols which can delay bank account opening for new entities.

VAT Transitions:

Managing the complexities of VAT reporting when moving services outside the EU scope.

Regulatory Substance:

Meeting physical office and expenditure requirements to satisfy UAE ESR laws.

Operational Gaps:

Delays in transaction processing due to a lack of understanding of local jurisdiction rules.

Core Business Relocation Services

We view relocation as a modular service, allowing clients to engage us for full-scope project management or specific technical advisory. Our goal is to simplify the process, minimizing downtime and operational disruption. We provide factual, service-oriented support that integrates corporate relocation services with high-level financial consultancy, ensuring a smoothly executed transfer.

Our core relocation services include:

Legal Structuring & Licensing: Selecting the correct jurisdiction (Mainland vs. Free Zone like DIFC, DMCC, or ADGM).
Tax Residency Planning: Advisory on the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between Cyprus and the UAE.
Financial Reporting Setup: Implementing IFRS-compliant accounting systems aligned with local laws.
Logistics Coordination: Overseeing the movement of assets and business operations.
Workforce Mobility: Managing the transfer of staff, immigration, and visa processing.

Tax, Compliance, and Reporting Transition

Ensuring tax continuity is critical when you relocate to Dubai. The UAE’s fiscal landscape has evolved; it is no longer a regulation-free environment. Strict adherence to the Tax Procedures Law is required. We manage the sequence of submission events to prevent exposure.

VAT Registration: Assessment of mandatory thresholds and voluntary registration options.
Corporate Tax Registration: Obtaining a Tax Registration Number (TRN) immediately upon incorporation.
Documentation Management: Preparing all necessary files for registration with federal authorities.

Banking, Payments, and Financial Infrastructure

Securing a corporate bank account is often cited as a bottleneck for companies moving to the UAE. Banks enforce rigorous due diligence. We arrange your compliance file in advance to expedite this process, ensuring you have the necessary infrastructure to transact internationally.

Account Opening: Facilitation with leading local and international banks.
Payment Gateway Integration: Setup for digital transaction processing.
Capital Repatriation: Structuring for efficient movement of funds.

Immigration, Visas, and Workforce Relocation

Human capital is a company’s most valuable asset. Our support extends to the residency and logistical needs of owners, executives, and staff. We distinguish between investor visas and standard employment permits, assisting with recruitment compliance and labour contracts.

Visa Processing: Management of the entire visa process including medicals and biometrics.
Family Sponsorship: Assisting with dependent visas for spouses and children.
Settling-In Services: Guidance on obtaining an Emirates ID and converting driving licences

Business Setup and Market Entry Support in Dubai

Once the legal entity is formed, the focus shifts to operational readiness. UAE relocation is not complete until the business is fully functional. We move beyond formation to provide support services that ground your operations in the local market, helping you establish a presence in the country.

Office Procurement: Assistance with leasing physical office space required for banking and inspections.
Custom Solutions: Providing custom market entry strategies based on your sector.
Local Vendor Alignment: Connecting you with verified partners for insurance and IT.

Legal and Regulatory Framework Considerations

Operating in Dubai or the UAE requires a clear understanding of the regulatory environment. Unlike Cyprus’s Common Law system (heavily influenced by English law), the UAE has a dual legal framework involving both Civil Law and Common Law (in financial free zones). Compliance is an ongoing obligation monitored by federal authorities.

Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO): Mandatory filing of beneficial ownership data.
Economic Substance Regulations (ESR): Annual notification and reporting for relevant activities.
Permit Acquisition: Obtaining any necessary permit or approval from specific regulators.

Industry-Specific Relocation Support

Different industries face distinct regulatory requirements when moving to the UAE. We leverage our extensive experience to provide specialist advice. A consultation with our team helps clarify these nuances.

Technology & SaaS: IP protection and specialized licenses in tech-focused zones.
General Trading: Customs registration and warehousing solutions.
Professional Services: Liability insurance and qualification equivalency.

About Oncount – International Business Relocation Advisory

Proven Experience in Cross-Border Transitions

Since 2016, Oncount has supported hundreds of companies with jurisdiction changes, market entry, and compliance realignment. We understand that relocating to Dubai involves more than just logistics; it requires a complete transference of commercial identity.

Capabilities include:

Multi-country regulatory coordination.
English-language documentation and reporting.
Alignment with international accounting standards.
Direct coordination with local authorities and banks.

Why Choose Oncount for Business Relocation Services

Relocation projects require precision, coordination, and regulatory clarity. Oncount delivers structured execution supported by documented workflows and compliance controls.

Key advantages:

End-to-end relocation management: Comprehensive oversight from exit to entry.
Clear timelines: Detailed project mapping.
Regulatory expertise: Deep knowledge of local protocols.
Transparent pricing: No hidden costs.
Dedicated support: A specific relocation manager assigned to your project.

FAQ

About Business Relocation from Cyprus to Dubai

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What are the main tax differences between Cyprus and Dubai?

Cyprus has a 12.5% corporate tax rate and a complex IP box regime. The UAE has a standard 9% corporate tax rate, which can be 0% for Qualifying Free Zone Persons. Additionally, the UAE has no personal income tax, whereas Cyprus has progressive rates unless the non-domicile regime applies. We analyze corporate and personal implications for you.

Can you help us find office space or accommodation?

Yes, we assist with securing housing and commercial real estate. Whether you need a villa for your family or a flexible lease for your office space, we can guide you to reputable agents and help you find a new home.

How do we handle the visa process for our team?

We manage the entire relocation process for your staff. This includes checking eligibility, processing entry permits, and finalizing residency stamps. Our goal is making your transition to the UAE stress-free for your employees.

Do I need a specific license to operate in Dubai?

Yes, every business in the UAE requires a valid license. The type depends on your activity (e.g., commercial, service, industrial) and whether you choose a free zone or mainland setup. We guide you through the incorporation and licensing steps.

Why should we hire a consultant for this move?

Engaging a specialist ensures that you navigate the regulatory landscape correctly, avoiding costly fines or delays. We provide corporate services that handle the bureaucracy, allowing you to focus on settling into your business operations.

How long does the relocation take?

The timeline varies, but company formation can often be completed in a few weeks. However, banking and visa procedures may take longer. We work to make the transition as smooth as possible by managing expectations and documentation in advance.

Do you offer comprehensive packages?

Yes, we offer comprehensive packages that address all your relocation needs. From tax advisory to accommodation search assistance, we arrange everything with the goal of making your transition as smooth as it can be.

Looking to take your business  to the next level? Our professional accounting team in Dubai is here  to help yousoar financially. We handle everything from detailed reports  to smart tax strategies, so you can focus on whatyou do best—growing your company.

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info@oncount.com

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Thank you — your answers have been submitted.
Our team will review your inputs and get in touch shortly.

Usually within 1 business day via email or WhatsApp