Business Relocation Services from Russia to Dubai, UAE

Relocating a corporate entity or expanding operations from Russia to the United Arab Emirates involves navigating a sophisticated landscape of international compliance, currency regulations, and tax structuring. For founders, SMEs, and large enterprises, this transition requires a strategic approach to align Russian fiscal obligations with the UAE’s regulatory framework. A successful move requires meticulous planning to ensure that cross-border cash flows and legal structures remain robust against a backdrop of evolving global regulations.

Our advisory practice focuses on the technical execution of this shift, ensuring legal and financial continuity. We assist Russian business owners and financial directors in managing the full spectrum of the move, from structuring foreign holding companies to complying with the UAE’s Economic Substance Regulations (ESR). Whether you are an existing enterprise seeking stability or a startup founder looking to access new markets, our objective is to ensure your entry into Dubai and the UAE is fully compliant and operationally sound.

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End-to-End Business Relocation Solutions

Business relocation is not a single event but a sequence of critical legal and financial milestones. A fragmented approach—separating company setup in Dubai from the necessary compliance checks in Russia—can lead to operational bottlenecks, particularly within the banking sector. We provide comprehensive relocation services that coordinate every phase, ensuring that as you relocate, your enterprise remains compliant in both jurisdictions. Our services ensure that the bridge between the CIS region and the Middle East is built on a solid legal foundation.

Our comprehensive relocation services cover the following critical phases:

Feasibility & Structuring: Analysis of free zone versus mainland options based on specific business activities and regulatory requirements.
Compliance & Due Diligence: Advisory on navigating international compliance standards to facilitate smoother banking relationships.
Entity Formation: Execution of business setup in Dubai, including Memorandum of Association drafting and trade license issuance.
Operational Migration: Coordination of accounting support, office leasing, and transfer of intellectual property.
Residency & Visas: Management of investor visa applications and employment contract alignment with local labor laws.

Why Companies Relocate from Russia to Dubai

The decision to move to Dubai is often driven by the need for access to global financial infrastructure and neutral trade environments. Dubai presents a globally connected hub that facilitates uninterrupted cross-border trade and offers a high standard of living for executives. Furthermore, the strategic location of the UAE allows businesses to bridge the gap between East and West effectively, utilizing the country as a gateway to expand your business globally.

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

Decision Driver	Russia Context	Dubai / UAE Context
Corporate Taxation	Standard rate of 20% with complex CFC rules.	Standard 9% rate; 0% for Qualifying Free Zone Persons on qualifying income.
Financial Access	Restricted access to international banking and payment systems.	A robust banking sector with access to global currencies and markets.
Market Reach	Focus on domestic and specific regional markets.	Access to new markets across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Business Environment	Complex regulatory changes and high volatility.	Stable, business-friendly environment with clear tax benefits.

Key Challenges in Cross-Border Business Relocation

Moving from Russia to the UAE introduces specific challenges regarding financial planning and regulatory adherence. The primary hurdle is often the banking sector, where strict "Know Your Customer" (KYC) protocols require meticulous documentation of funds and ultimate beneficial ownership. Additionally, navigating the tax liabilities associated with becoming a tax resident in the UAE while managing Russian fiscal obligations requires expert oversight to ensure compliance with all relevant authorities. Common challenges include:

Banking Compliance:

Navigating rigorous due diligence processes to open corporate accounts for entities with Russian shareholders.

Tax Residency:

Establishing a genuine “place of effective management” in the UAE to satisfy international tax standards.

Currency Controls:

Managing the repatriation of capital and dividends in adherence to both UAE and Russian regulations.

Operational Substance:

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

Logistical Nuances:

Delays in settling into your new environment due to unfamiliarity with local administrative procedures.

Core Business Relocation Services

We view business relocation as a modular process, allowing clients to engage us for specific needs or full-scale project management. Our goal is to make your business transition as efficient as possible. We provide factual, service-oriented support that ensures peace of mind during the transfer. By choosing the right partners, you can mitigate risks and ensure that your relocation to the UAE is executed professionally.

Our core services include:

Legal Structuring & Licensing: Selecting the correct jurisdiction (Mainland vs. Free Zone).
Tax Advisory: Guidance on corporate tax registration and VAT compliance.
Financial Infrastructure: Assisting with the opening of corporate bank accounts and payment gateways.
Logistics Coordination: Working with relocation companies to manage the movement of business assets.
Workforce Mobility: Managing the immigration laws and visa processes for staff.

Tax, Compliance, and Reporting Transition

Ensuring tax continuity is vital. The UAE allows for a tax-efficient structure, but the recent implementation of Corporate Tax demands strict adherence to accounting standards. We manage the sequencing of registrations to avoid penalties and ensure your financial planning aligns with local requirements.

VAT Registration: Assessment of mandatory thresholds and voluntary registration.
Corporate Tax Setup: Obtaining a Tax Registration Number (TRN) immediately upon licensure.
Audit Preparation: Ensuring books are maintained in AED and aligned with IFRS.

Banking, Payments, and Financial Infrastructure

Securing a corporate bank account is often the most complex part of the relocation process for Russian businesses. We prepare your compliance file in advance to satisfy the rigorous requirements of UAE banks. Our services provide the necessary guidance to navigate the banking sector effectively.

Account Opening: Facilitation with local and international banks willing to onboard CIS clients.
Currency Management: Structuring for multi-currency accounts.
Capital Movement: Advisory on legal pathways for capital injection and dividend distribution.

Immigration, Visas, and Workforce Relocation

Our services ensure that your team can legally work and reside in the UAE. We manage the investor visa process for owners and employment visas for staff, ensuring alignment with local labor laws. This allows Russian entrepreneurs to focus on business growth rather than bureaucracy.

Visa Processing: Management of Employment Visas, Investor Visas, and the Golden Visa.
Family Sponsorship: Assisting with residency for individuals and families.
Settling-In Services: Guidance on accommodation and Emirates ID issuance.

Business Setup and Market Entry Support in Dubai

Once the legal entity is formed, we assist with the practical aspects of establishing a presence. Relocating to Dubai requires more than just a license; it demands a physical footprint to meet substance requirements. We help you invest in Dubai with confidence by setting up the operational side of your enterprise.

Office Procurement: Assistance with leasing physical offices or flexi-desk solutions.
Market Entry: Advisory on connecting with local suppliers and partners.
Administrative Support: Handling government liaison (PRO) services.

Legal and Regulatory Framework Considerations

Operating in Dubai and the UAE requires a clear understanding of the local legal framework. We ensure compliance with the UAE’s specific regulations, such as Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) filings. The UAE allows for 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, provided regulatory requirements are met.

UBO Registry: Mandatory filing of beneficial ownership data.
ESR Compliance: Annual notification and reporting.
AML Registration: Essential for Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions.

Industry-Specific Relocation Support

Different sectors face unique regulatory requirements. For example, IT companies may benefit from specific free zone incentives, while trading companies need mainland access for local distribution. We help tailor the business set-up to your specific industry needs.

Technology & IT: Intellectual property protection and tech-focused licenses.
General Trading: Import/export codes and customs registration.
Consultancy: Professional indemnity insurance and qualification equivalency.

About Oncount – International Business Relocation Advisory

Proven Experience in Cross-Border Transitions

Since 2016, our team has guided hundreds of enterprises through the intricacies of jurisdiction changes and market entry. Our expertise spans the CIS region, Europe, and the Middle East, providing us with the unique capability to handle multi-faceted compliance challenges. We specialize in aligning internal accounting standards with international reporting requirements.

Capabilities include:

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

Why Choose Oncount for Business Relocation Services?

Successfully relocating a business demands meticulous planning and deep regulatory knowledge. Oncount provides a structured execution strategy, supported by transparent workflows and rigorous compliance checks. We prioritize legal safety and operational efficiency, acting as your dedicated partner throughout the migration process.

Key advantages:

End-to-end relocation management.
Clear timelines and responsibility mapping.
Jurisdiction-specific regulatory expertise.
Transparent pricing and scope definition.
Dedicated relocation manager per project.

FAQ

About Business Relocation from Russia to Dubai

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Can Russian businesses currently open bank accounts in the UAE?

Yes, it is possible, but the process involves enhanced due diligence. You must demonstrate clear sources of funds, a transparent business model, and compliance with UAE regulations. Our services in Dubai include preparing your compliance profile to improve the likelihood of successful account opening.

What are the main tax benefits for a company in Dubai?

The UAE offers a competitive fiscal environment. This includes a 0% Corporate Tax rate for Qualifying Free Zone Persons on qualifying income and no personal income tax on salaries. This allows foreign investors to optimize their tax liabilities efficiently.

Does the UAE offer residency for business owners?

Yes, owning a company in the UAE entitles you to apply for an investor visa, which typically lasts for two years and is renewable. Additionally, for larger investments, the Golden Visa offers a 10-year residency, providing long-term stability for adjusting to life in the country.

How does the relocation process affect my employees?

Relocating a business often involves moving key staff. The UAE offers a safe environment and a high standard of living. However, you must secure employment visas for all staff and provide mandatory health insurance. We assist with the visa processes for individuals and families to ensure a smooth relocation.

Is it better to set up in a Free Zone or on the Mainland?

The choice depends on your business activities and target market. A Free Zone is ideal for international trade and services, often offering 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions. A Mainland setup is necessary if you intend to trade directly within the UAE consumer market.

What business opportunities exist for Russian entrepreneurs in the UAE?

Dubai offers a vibrant city environment with opportunities in real estate, technology, tourism, and general trading. The government actively encourages new business formation, and the diverse population provides a broad customer base for those looking to expand their business.

Do I need to live in Dubai to run my business there?

While you do not need to be permanently present, the UAE’s tax residency rules and banking compliance standards generally require decision-makers to have a genuine presence. Regular visits or appointing a local manager may be necessary to make your business compliant with economic substance regulations.

How can Oncount help make the transition hassle-free?

We offer comprehensive relocation support that covers legal setup, banking, and tax registration. By managing the heavy lifting of bureaucracy and documentation, we allow you to focus on your operations, ensuring a hassle-free entry into the Dubai market.

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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Office 3402, Indigo Icon-1, Cluster F, JLT, Dubai

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Ready to see real growth? Reach out to our team for a free consultation.  We'll chat about your needs and show you exactly how our accounting services in Dubai can make a difference for your business.

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