Thriving business landscape of Australia is long nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship. But when it comes to global expansion, the UAE stands out as a natural course of action. So, investors can transfer an Australian business to Dubai to tap into the potential there.
The UAE offers Australian entrepreneurs an ideal gateway to the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. With its strategic location, Dubai is popular globally for its world-class infrastructure and investor-friendly regulations. Therefore, relocating an Australian business to Dubai opens broad access to diverse markets across the MENA region and universally.
Also, Dubai offers matchless opportunities for tax efficiency and international connectivity. In recent years, Dubai is emerging as a global hub for trade, technology, and finance. This makes Dubai a preferable business destination for companies seeking sustainable growth.
Dubai’s flexible setup options, 100% foreign ownership rights, and seamless visa policies make the transition smoother for foreign entities. In case, you’re looking to expand your operations or completely shift your business base overseas. Then, moving an Australian business to Dubai promises scalability, stability, and strategic advantage in a globally competitive market.
Key takeaways of Australian corporate relocation to Dubai
These are the notable insights of the Australian business relocation to Dubai, UAE.
- The signed Australia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is projected to boost Australian exports by around $678 million each year.
- Official sources note over 300 Australian companies are UAE-based (many use Dubai as their regional base).
- By the end of June 2025 Dubai Chamber reported ~1,594 Australian member companies after 250 new Australian companies joined in H1 2025. (Useful to gauge Australian commercial presence in Dubai specifically.)
- In 2025, Abu Dhabi’s ADQ finalized the acquisition of a 49% stake in Australia’s infrastructure firm Plenary, valued at about A$1 billion.
- Under CEPA, Australian goods exports to the UAE are estimated to increase by AU$678 million annually once fully implemented.
- The CEPA will remove tariffs on more than 99% of Australian exports to the UAE once fully implemented.
- In 2024, total two-way trade between Australia and the UAE reached US$8.14 billion (A$12.3 billion), with non-oil trade exceeding US$4.2 billion and rising by 33.4% year-on-year to US$3.03 billion in the first half of 2025.
Process to register an Australian business in Dubai
This is the step-by-step procedure to register license for a relocating Australian business in Dubai.
- Choose business location
- Secure business license
- Obtain visa and Emirates ID
- Understand tax residency implications
- Comply with Australian legal requirements
- Manage asset and team transition
- Set up business banking account
Now, we briefly look upon these steps of the license registration while moving an Australian business to Dubai, UAE.
Choose business location
Start your Australian business relocation to Dubai by deciding whether to establish your company in the mainland or one of Dubai’s free zones. Each option offers unique advantages, mainland setups provide access to the UAE market, while free zones offer 100% foreign ownership and tax benefits. Select a business license that aligns perfectly with your company’s planned activities to ensure smooth registration.
Secure business license
Once, you’ve selected your setup type, apply for your trade license through Dubai’s online business registration portals. The process is efficient, most entrepreneurs receive approval in under a week. This license is your company’s legal foundation, officially allowing you to operate and conduct business in Dubai.
Obtain visa and Emirates ID
After your trade license is issued, complete the next vital step, getting your UAE residence visa. Undergo a standard medical test and apply for your Emirates ID to legally live and work in the UAE. These documents are essential for banking, leasing, and daily operations when you move an Australian company to Dubai.
Understand tax residency implications
When you transfer an Australian firm to Dubai, it’s crucial to review your tax residency status. Relocating may shift your classification to a non-resident for Australian tax purposes, reducing or eliminating your Australian tax obligations. Seek professional advice to optimize your cross-border tax planning.
Comply with Australian legal requirements
During your Australian corporate relocation to Dubai, review your original company’s structure to ensure full compliance with Australian corporate law. Certain entities require a resident director or registered office in Australia. Maintaining compliance will protect your home-country assets and reputation while operating abroad.
Manage asset and team transition
Plan carefully when transferring assets, intellectual property (IP), and staff from your Australian office to Dubai. Ensure employment contracts, IP rights, and financial assets are transitioned legally and efficiently. This seamless transfer minimizes operational disruptions and keeps your business performance consistent across both regions.
Set up business banking account
To manage your finances effectively, open a corporate bank account with a reputable UAE bank. A local account will make it easier to handle transactions, pay suppliers, and receive client payments securely. This step also builds your financial credibility and helps integrate your firm into Dubai’s business ecosystem.
Best business sectors for Australian investors in Dubai
These are some leading business verticals for Australian entrepreneurs in Dubai.
- Building and furnishing services: If you’re planning to start your business in Dubai, the building materials and furniture sector is a great place to begin. Companies like Lorient Middle East Building Materials Trading LLC and Global Furniture Solutions (Dubai) LLC have already proven how strong this market can be. With Dubai’s rapid urban growth, there’s always demand for quality construction supplies and modern furniture designs, making it an ideal field for new entrepreneurs.
- Corporate services sector: Dubai’s service industry offers vast opportunities for professionals looking to establish their presence. Whether it’s energy, transportation, media, or healthcare, Australian-led companies have shown that expertise and innovation can thrive here. By offering specialized consultancy or technical services, you can tap into Dubai’s ever-expanding market that values professionalism and global standards.
- Food and dining operations: Dubai’s café and restaurant scene includes several places with strong Australian roots in concept, food style or ownership. For those passionate about hospitality, Dubai’s food and beverage sector is full of potential. The success of Australian-inspired cafés like Tom & Serg proves that creative dining experiences can win big in this multicultural city. From trendy coffee shops to unique restaurant concepts, starting an F&B business here allows you to blend Australian creativity with Dubai’s diverse dining culture.
- Renewable energy and sustainability: For Australian entrepreneurs, Dubai’s renewable energy sector offers powerful opportunities for growth and impact. With the UAE aiming to produce 50% of its energy from clean sources by 2050, demand for solar, wind, and energy-efficient solutions is rapidly increasing. Australians experienced in sustainable technology can easily align with Dubai’s Green Economy Vision, contributing to eco-friendly innovation and long-term environmental progress.
KWS ME assists in Australian business relocation to Dubai
Relocating an Australian business to Dubai becomes a seamless experience with KWS Middle East by your side. Whether, you are moving to a free zone or setting up on the mainland. Our experts handle every detail, from company registration and legal documentation to visa processing and office setup.
As one of the UAE’s leading business setup consultants, KWS ME makes the transition simple, strategic, and fully compliant with UAE laws. With years of experience helping international companies enter the UAE market, we understand the unique needs of Australian businesses. Our advisors guide you through choosing the right business structure.
They help you in securing trade licenses, and meeting all regulatory requirements to ensure a smooth relocation journey. Whether, you’re a startup or an established company, KWS Middle East is your trusted partner for a compliant relocation to Dubai. We make your move simple, cost-efficient, and strategically aligned with your business goals.
To learn more about how we can support your business relocation, get in touch with our expert team. You can call us at +97180059763, email us at info@kwsme.com, or WhatsApp us at +971509664705 today. We are right here to guide you every step of the entrepreneurial way.
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Conclusion
Relocating an Australian business to Dubai is more than just an expansion, it’s a strategic move toward global growth. Dubai offers a unique blend of stability, innovation, and global accessibility that allows businesses to thrive in a competitive international market. Its streamlined processes, investor protection laws, and diverse economy create a strong foundation for sustainable success.
From free zone advantages to full foreign ownership on the mainland, Dubai empowers entrepreneurs to move with freedom and flexibility. The city’s forward-thinking business ecosystem not only supports operational efficiency but also encourages innovation and scalability, making it a preferred destination for Australian businesses looking to grow beyond borders.
Our Clients Reviews

I also want to mention Mr Ali, his assistant, who was super responsive and always on top of the paperwork and follow-ups. Both Abdullah and Ali really went out of their way to make sure everything was handled properly.
What I appreciated the most was their honesty and the personal attention they gave me, it honestly felt like they genuinely cared about helping, not just “getting the job done.” Thanks to them, the whole process was completed smoothly and right on time.
I’d happily recommend Abdullah and his team to anyone who wants reliable, trustworthy, and hassle-free services. They truly deserve more than 5 stars!
I highly recommend Sana and KWS Middle East to anyone looking to start their business in the UAE.
Their professionalism, attention to detail, and deep understanding of the UAE regulatory environment made the entire process seamless and stress-free. Thanks to Hasan and KWSME, I was able to successfully launch my business in the crypto and fintech space without any hurdles.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for business setup, crypto licenses, AML compliance, or fintech approvals in the UAE!
Due to an unfortunate mistake, I entered the UAE using my old passport, which could have turned into a very complicated situation. Hasan personally stepped in, went above and beyond—he took me to the airport, resolved the issue, arranged a VIP medical, and even dropped me home. Thanks to his dedication and hands-on support, everything was sorted smoothly.
Within just 18 days, I had my Trade License and Emirates ID in hand. I couldn’t be happier with Hasan’s commitment and professionalism. Truly grateful for his support, highly recommended for anyone planning to set up a business in the UAE.
A special thanks to Hasan for guiding me through the entire process from selecting the right license to handling all the paperwork with such professionalism and ease. His attention to detail and prompt communication made everything stress-free and efficient.
I highly recommend KWS Middle East and Hasan to anyone looking to start their business in the UAE. They truly know how to turn your vision into reality.
Harman kaur
A big thanks to Hasan for his constant support, clear guidance, and professional approach throughout the entire process. He took the time to understand my requirements, explained every step in detail, and ensured everything was handled smoothly and efficiently.
If you’re planning to establish a company in the UAE, I highly recommend KWS Middle East and Hasan for their expertise and exceptional service.
Rizwan
Prices were competitive and consultancy was excellent.
We had the pleasure of working with KWS Middle East to set up our company in the UAE, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Right from the moment we first visited their website, we received an immediate response – and that level of speed, clarity, and commitment continued throughout the entire process.
They were incredibly fast, always available, and truly amazing problem solvers. Everything went smoothly, efficiently, and exactly as promised. We honestly thought it might be too good to be true – but it was absolutely true.
KWS Middle East delivers what they promise, with professionalism and precision. We wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking for a trustworthy partner in the UAE.
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I am delighted to share my exceptional experience with KWS for their outstanding support in helping me obtain my company trade license in Dubai and navigate the complexities of opening a business bank account.
From the very beginning, their service was nothing short of excellent. What truly set them apart was the dedication and professionalism of their relationship agent, SANA. She provided me with clear, step-by-step guidance throughout the entire process of acquiring my trade license. Her expertise transformed what could have been a daunting task into a remarkably smooth and efficient experience.
Sana's commitment extended beyond just guidance; she personally accompanied me to the bank to facilitate the opening of my company and personal account. This level of personalized service is rare and incredibly valuable, demonstrating a genuine commitment to client success. Her presence ensured that the process was seamless and that all necessary requirements were met without any hitches.
Thanks to KWS and the invaluable assistance of Sana, my company is now fully licensed and operational. I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking professional, reliable, and client-focused support for business setup and related procedures. They truly go above and beyond!
Looking forward to many more successful occasions together.
Muhammad didn't just treat me like a client; he treated me like a friend. He was always available, patient with my endless questions, and proactive in finding solutions before problems even arose. His dedication, honesty, and deep knowledge of the process made what could have been a stressful experience feel smooth and reassuring.
If you're looking for someone reliable, trustworthy, and truly invested in your success, I wholeheartedly recommend Muhammad Hasan. Thank you again for everything!
Thanks
Highly professional, responsive, and knowledgeable — I strongly recommend him for any serious business planning in the UAE.
Thanks
Their expertise is evident, and they go above and beyond to ensure everything is compliant and completed on time. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking to establish a company in the UAE with peace of mind.
Thank you to the entire team for their dedication and commitment to helping their clients succeed.
What truly sets Clark apart is his dedication. He was always available to assist, even outside of regular working hours, which was invaluable during such a critical time. He even went the extra mile—literally—by personally driving me to and from the airport. It’s rare to find someone who combines professionalism with such a personal touch. I couldn’t have asked for a better person to guide me through this journey.
If you’re looking for someone reliable, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring, Clark is the person to work with. Highly recommended!
One of the standout aspects of my experience was the way the staff attended to every detail with genuine care and attention. They took the time to thoroughly understand my requirements and provided tailored solutions that perfectly addressed my needs. Their responsiveness and willingness to help made the entire process smooth and hassle-free.
Additionally, the team's expertise and knowledge in their field were evident throughout our interactions. They offered insightful advice and ensured that all my queries were answered promptly. It’s rare to find such a dedicated and supportive team, and I truly appreciate their commitment to providing excellent service.
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In business, things rarely go exactly as planned, but the team at KWSME ensured everything went off without a hitch. They reassured us at every step and handled any hiccups with ease and efficiency.
Aqsa and Abdullah, part of the management team, were also deeply involved and demonstrated genuine care for their clients. Their dedication and commitment were evident and made us feel confident and valued throughout the process.
I highly recommend KWSME to anyone looking to incorporate their company in the UAE. Their exceptional service and customer-centric approach truly set them apart. Thank you, KWSME, for making what could have been a stressful experience into a seamless and enjoyable one! We look forward to working with you again.
A few points that particularly stood out to me during our collaboration include:
1. **Attention to Detail**: KWS's meticulous attention to the smallest details ensured that the work was completed to the highest standard possible.
2. **Timeliness**: Despite the complexity of the task at hand, the team at KWS managed to deliver ahead of schedule, which was truly impressive.
3. **Customer Service**: The level of customer service provided was exceptional. The team was always available to answer any queries and made the entire process smooth and hassle-free.
4. **Innovation**: I was particularly impressed by their innovative approaches to solving problems, which not only addressed my immediate needs but also anticipated future requirements.
In conclusion, my experience with KWS was incredibly positive, and I would unhesitatingly recommend their services to anyone looking for top-notch professionalism and quality work. Whether you're dealing with a small task or a large project, KWS is undoubtedly equipped to deliver outstanding results.
Especially Mr. Clark ( Business Consultant ) whom he are responsible of our file , He is so responsive and helpful.
Very professional and well trained, They did everything for us in no time with no any hidden charges, very dedicated and honest, they even joined us with higher level services than agreed for just that they knew how much we were on a hurry.
We can’t imagine how quick our bank account been opened in just 10 days from our trade license.
Finally me and my partners feel so thankful for all the experience looking for further extended cooperation between us.
Thank you and. Aqsa
Thank you Ian
Thank you Jumana
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I recommend if anyone want to open business in Dubai should not hesitate to contact KWS, and get in touch to Aqsa
I really appreciate to Aqsa, she is very cooperative and make things done without delay
They guide you the best route from opening up your business entity in U.A.E to settling down with your residency. Bank account assistance is superb and makes this complex issue very easy for their clients. Their teams are equipped with best skills. They are Efficient, helpful & after sales customer service and support is commendable!
workers the help you to grow from one level to the other. I worked with KWS for three years and now I own my own business. And miss working there. A peace loving company, treat everyone equally and do their work perfectly.
FAQs about Australian corporate relocation to Dubai
These are the answers to the questions regarding the Australian business relocation to Dubai, UAE.
Why should an Australian business relocate to Dubai?
Sitting at a strategic location, Dubai offers business-friendly regulations, zero personal income tax, and other benefits. Dubai provides easy access to markets in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. These factors make Dubai an ideal hub for Australians aiming international business expansion.
What kind of visa do I need to move to Dubai as Australian firm owner?
You as an Australian entrepreneur need an investor visa or a partner visa. Generally, it is valid for 2–3 years, and is renewable. It allows you to live and manage your business in Dubai.
Can I own 100% of an Australian company in Dubai?
Yes! Dubai allows complete foreign ownership in all free zones. The recent UAE reforms enable expatriates to keep 100% ownership of the companies in Dubai mainland. So, this makes it easier for Australian investors like you to operate independently.
Salman Saleem
The user-centric business setup and support focused content of KWS Middle East is driven by SEO professional Salman Saleem.
 
															







