Key Highlights

• French nationals can own 100% of businesses in Dubai across 1,000+ activities under Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2020.
• Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda prioritizes technology, tourism, luxury, and financial services—sectors where French expertise thrives.
• Business setup costs range from AED 15,000 to AED 60,000, with step-by-step licensing processes outlined by Dubai DET.
• French entrepreneurs benefit from strong bilateral networks, including CCI France UAE (800+ members) and government-backed support.

Dubai has positioned itself as the second-largest business destination for French nationals in the Middle East.

Over 600 French companies already operate successfully across the Emirates. This isn’t by accident.

The France-UAE bilateral trade relationship reached €8.5 billion in 2024, marking a significant 15% increase from the previous year. This growing economic partnership demonstrates the deepening ties between the two nations.

In 2024, France ranked as the 4th top source country for FDI projects into Dubai, representing 4.5% of total announced projects. Even more impressive, French investments accounted for 11% of total FDI capital flowing into Dubai.

Keep reading this article to learn more about setting up your business in the UAE. 

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional advice. All costs, fees, and regulations are subject to change and should be verified with official UAE authorities before proceeding. Readers should consult licensed legal and financial professionals for advice specific to their circumstances.

The 2026 Business Landscape in Dubai for French Nationals

1. Latest Government Regulations and Updates (2025-2026)

Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025 represents a watershed moment for business operations in Dubai.

Free Zone companies can now operate in mainland Dubai through three pathways: (1) a branch license within the Emirate, (2) a branch license operating from the Free Zone at AED 10,000 per year, or (3) a temporary permit for specific activities at AED 5,000 for up to six months.

This eliminates the previous requirement to establish separate mainland entities. You can start in a Free Zone and test the mainland market without additional company formation costs.

The 100% foreign ownership rules remain in effect across most sectors. This post-2021 reform continues to benefit French entrepreneurs who want full control of their operations.

Furthermore, e-invoicing becomes mandatory from July 2026 for businesses with revenue ≥ AED 50 million. Large businesses must appoint an Accredited Service Provider by 31 July 2026. Smaller businesses follow in subsequent phases.

The Golden Visa program has updated criteria. Business owners can qualify with a minimum AED 30,000 monthly salary requirement and six months of proof. This differs from previous requirements and offers long-term residency stability.

2. France-UAE Strategic Partnership Advantages

The UAE-France High-Level Business Council drives strategic initiatives across multiple sectors.

• The AI cooperation framework announced in February 2025 involves €30-50 billion in investments. This includes developing one of Europe’s largest AI data center campuses in France.
• Business France operates its regional headquarters from Dubai. The organization provides market entry assistance, trade mission coordination, and sectoral initiatives for French companies.
• The CCI France UAE network serves 800+ members with comprehensive support. Their main missions include strengthening Franco-Emirates relations, supporting French company setup, and organizing high-value networking events.
• Bilateral investment protection agreements safeguard French investments in the UAE. These treaties provide legal frameworks that reduce investment risks.
• The UAE and France signed a strategic AI partnership framework in May 2024. This agreement promotes cooperation on AI projects and investments supporting the AI value chain advancement.
• BPIfrance Middle East provides financial backing for landmark projects from their Dubai offices. This support facilitates large-scale investments and regional expansion.

Step-by-Step Business Setup Process for French Nationals in Dubai (2026)

Step 1: Determine Your Business Structure

You face three primary options: mainland, free zone, or offshore structures.

Mainland companies access the entire UAE market directly. You can conduct business anywhere in Dubai without restrictions. The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) handles mainland licensing.

Free Zone entities traditionally operated only within their designated zones. Resolution No. 11 of 2025 changed this. You can now obtain a mainland operating permit while maintaining your Free Zone license.

This creates a strategic decision point. Starting in a free zone offers lower initial costs and tax benefits. Adding a mainland permit later costs just AED 5,000 for six months.

Legal structures include:

Limited Liability Company (LLC): Most popular for mainland setup. Requires a minimum of one shareholder. You maintain 100% ownership in most sectors.

Free Zone Company (FZE/FZCO): FZE requires one shareholder. FZCO accommodates multiple shareholders. Both offer 100% foreign ownership guaranteed.

Branch Office: Extension of your existing French company. No separate legal entity. Useful for project-based operations.

Sole Establishment: Single-owner structure for professional services. Common among consultants and freelancers.

Step 2: Select the Right Jurisdiction

The mainland setup provides full UAE market access. You work directly with DET for licensing. Physical office space is mandatory. Ejari registration costs AED 4,000-6,000 annually.

Free Zone options vary by industry focus:

• DMCC suits commodities and trading businesses. License costs range from AED 10,000 to 50,000 annually. Office space starts at AED 15,000-20,000. The zone hosts over 25,000 companies from 180+ countries.
• Dubai Silicon Oasis targets technology companies. License fees start from AED 12,000 for 2 visa allocations. Office space begins at AED 28,392 annually for 13.5 square meters.
• IFZA offers budget-friendly options. Zero-visa packages start at AED 12,900. The 1-visa package costs AED 14,900. Setup completes remotely in 3-5 business days.
• Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) provides the most affordable entry point. Complete packages start from AED 5,750 annually. License renewal costs just AED 5,750.
• Dubai CommerCity specializes in e-commerce operations. The UAE e-commerce market is projected to reach $9.2 billion by 2026.
• The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) serves financial services. Note that DIFC entities are excluded from Resolution No. 11 provisions.
• Resolution No. 11 creates new strategic options. You can start in a budget-friendly Free Zone like SPC or IFZA. Later, obtain a mainland permit without establishing a separate LLC. This phased approach reduces initial capital requirements.

Step 3: Choose Your Business Activity

Dubai offers 2,000+ licensed activities across commercial, professional, and industrial categories.

The DET maintains an official economic activities list. Each activity code determines licensing requirements and operational permissions.

High-opportunity sectors for French expertise include:

• Technology and Innovation: AI, fintech, e-commerce platforms, blockchain solutions, and green tech. These align with La French Tech UAE’s focus areas.
• Luxury Goods: Fashion, jewelry, cosmetics, and premium products. The UAE luxury market will reach USD 7.0 billion by 2033.
• Food & Beverage: Fine dining, patisseries, cloud kitchens, and gourmet food imports. French culinary reputation creates strong competitive advantages.
• Professional Services: Business consultancy, legal services, interior design, engineering, and management consulting. Bilingual capabilities are highly valued.

You can include up to 10 activities per mainland commercial license. Free Zone licenses vary by zone authority rules.

Some activities require special approvals. Financial services need regulatory clearances. Healthcare requires health authority permits. Educational services need knowledge authority approvals.

Step 4: Business Name Registration and Approval

UAE naming conventions follow specific rules. Your trade name cannot contain religious references, offensive terms, or prohibited words.

You must verify name availability through the DET portal or Free Zone authority system. The approval process typically takes 1-2 business days.

French brand identity can be incorporated while complying with UAE rules. Many French companies maintain their global brand names with minor adjustments.

Step 5: Initial Approval and License Application

Document requirements for French nationals include:

• Passport copies with minimum 6 months validity. Color scans of all pages showing personal information.
• Business plan outlining your activities, market strategy, and financial projections. Detail your service offerings and target customers.
• Activity descriptions explaining each business function. Be specific about what you will offer.
• Apostilled documents from French authorities. The UAE requires authentication for certain legal documents. French documents need apostille stamps under the Hague Convention.
• Processing timelines average 2-4 weeks from complete submission to license issuance. Free zones often process faster than mainland applications.

Step 6: Secure Physical or Virtual Office Space

Mainland requirements mandate physical office space with Ejari registration. Ejari is the official tenancy contract registration system in Dubai.

Annual Ejari costs range from AED 4,000 to 6,000 depending on location and office type. Budget offices in areas like International City cost less. Premium locations in Business Bay or DIFC cost more.

Free Zone options include flexi-desk, dedicated desk, or private office configurations.

Flexi-desk packages provide shared workspace access. Costs start from AED 5,000-15,000 annually. These work well for consultants and digital businesses.

Dedicated offices offer private workspace. Expect AED 20,000-50,000 annually depending on size and zone.

Many free zones include office space in their license packages. SPC includes flexi-desk at no additional cost. IFZA bundles workspace with license fees.

Step 7: Obtain Trade License

Three main license types serve different business models:

• Commercial License: For trading, import-export, distribution, and retail operations. Costs AED 15,000-30,000 for the mainland. Free Zone fees vary from AED 10,000 to 50,000.
• Professional License: For consultancy, services, and skilled professions. Similar cost range to commercial licenses.
• Industrial License: For manufacturing, production, and fabrication activities. Requires appropriate facility specifications.

Licenses are valid for one year and require annual renewal. Plan for renewal costs similar to initial license fees.

Step 8: Apply for Residence Visa

French passport holders enjoy a 90-day visa on arrival in the UAE. This provides flexibility for initial setup visits.

Investor visas link to business ownership. You qualify as a shareholder or company owner. Validity is typically 2-3 years, renewable.

The Golden Visa offers 10-year residency for qualifying business owners. Requirements include a minimum AED 30,000 monthly salary with 6 months’ proof. Educational documents need attestation.

Family sponsorship is available. You can sponsor your spouse and children once you obtain residency. Minimum salary thresholds apply for family sponsorship.

Medical fitness tests are mandatory. All visa applicants undergo health screening at approved centers. Costs range from AED 450 to 870 per person.

Emirates ID is your official identification card. Processing includes biometric registration. Fees are approximately AED 330-390 per applicant.

Step 9: Open Corporate Bank Account

Banks with French-UAE service capabilities include BNP Paribas Middle East and HSBC UAE. These institutions understand Franco-Emirati business requirements.

Required documentation includes:

• Trade license copy showing your licensed activities. Emirates ID for all shareholders and signatories. Business plan explaining your operations and financial projections. Tenancy contract or office lease agreement.
• The typical timeline is 2-4 weeks from application to account activation. Some banks move faster with complete documentation.
• Minimum deposit requirements vary by bank and account type. Expect AED 25,000-100,000 for most business accounts.

Step 10: Register for VAT (if applicable)

VAT registration is mandatory for revenue ≥ AED 375,000 annually. This threshold applies to taxable supplies and imports over 12 months.

Voluntary registration is possible for revenue between AED 187,500 and 375,000. This allows input VAT recovery even below the mandatory threshold.

The Federal Tax Authority manages registration through their e-services portal. Processing completes within days for straightforward applications.

Also Read: Top Locations in UAE to Start Your Business

Best Business Opportunities in Dubai for French Nationals in 2026

1. Technology and Innovation Sectors

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Dubai’s AI Strategy 2031 creates substantial opportunities. GITEX TechCation 2026 takes place December 7-11 at Expo City Dubai. This represents the world’s largest technology and AI event.

La French Tech UAE focuses specifically on AI and deep tech for 2024-2025. French expertise in innovation aligns perfectly with UAE government AI partnerships.

The UAE-France AI cooperation framework involves €30-50 billion in investments. This creates opportunities for French AI companies to participate in major projects.

Fintech Solutions

Dubai hosts multiple fintech initiatives and regulatory sandboxes. The DIFC provides a sophisticated financial ecosystem supporting innovation.

Blockchain and Web3

The Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) provides regulatory framework clarity. Dubai positions itself as a global blockchain hub.

Green Tech and Sustainability

The UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategy creates demand for environmental technologies. La French Tech UAE emphasizes green technology as a priority focus.

2. Luxury Goods and Fashion

The UAE luxury market will reach USD 7.0 billion by 2033, growing at 5.52% CAGR.

The luxury jewelry market specifically is valued at USD 1.24 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 2.24 billion by 2030 at a 10.36% CAGR.

French fashion brands benefit from strong cultural appreciation. Dubai serves as the GCC luxury hub with sophisticated consumer tastes.

Dubai welcomed 18.72 million international visitors in 2024, marking 9% year-over-year growth. Tourism drives luxury goods purchases significantly.

Niche opportunities include sustainable luxury, modest fashion adaptations, and bespoke services. French luxury heritage commands premium positioning in the market.

3. Food & Beverage and Hospitality

Fine Dining and French Cuisine

French gastronomy enjoys global recognition. Dubai’s dining culture supports premium restaurant concepts.

The tourism sector’s growth creates steady demand. International visitors seek authentic French culinary experiences.

Boutique Cafés and Patisseries

French bakery concepts perform exceptionally well. Consumers appreciate authentic French pastry craftsmanship.

Cloud Kitchens

Lower overhead models suit food delivery businesses. This approach reduces initial capital requirements while testing market demand.

Food Import and Distribution

Specialty French products command premium prices. Cheese, wine, and gourmet items have established markets. Note that alcohol import requires special licensing.

Culinary Training and Consulting

French culinary expertise translates to training opportunities. Restaurants and hotels value French techniques and standards.

4. Professional Services and Consulting

Business Consultancy

Supporting French companies entering the UAE market leverages your cultural understanding. You bridge business practices between France and the Emirates.

Legal and Compliance Services

Navigating UAE-France business regulations requires specialized knowledge. Bilingual legal services are in high demand.

Interior Design and Architecture

French aesthetic expertise is highly valued. Residential and commercial projects seek European design sensibilities.

Engineering and Construction

Infrastructure development continues across the UAE. French engineering firms contribute to major projects. France has participated in Dubai Metro, tramway systems, and aviation infrastructure.

Management Consulting

Cross-cultural business expertise positions French consultants advantageously. You understand both French corporate culture and Middle Eastern business practices.

5. Education and Training

Language Schools

French language instruction serves multiple audiences. The 30,000+ French expat community needs French education for their children.

International School Operations

French curriculum programs maintain strong demand. Bilingual education offers competitive advantages in the job market.

Professional Training

Management, hospitality, and culinary training leverage French expertise. Corporate training programs serve the business community.

Online Education Platforms

E-learning services reach broader geographic markets. Digital delivery reduces overhead costs.

6. Healthcare and Wellness

Medical Tourism Coordination

Dubai serves as a regional healthcare hub. French medical expertise commands respect globally.

Spa and Wellness Centers

Premium wellness experiences align with Dubai’s luxury market positioning. French spa traditions attract affluent clientele.

Specialty Clinics

French pharmaceutical and medical device expertise creates opportunities. Niche specializations can command premium pricing.

Cosmetics and Beauty Products

French beauty brands enjoy an exceptional reputation. The luxury cosmetics market grows steadily.

7. Real Estate and Property Services

Property Development Consultation

Growing French investment in Dubai real estate creates advisory opportunities. You help French investors navigate UAE property markets.

Real Estate Brokerage

Supporting French buyers and investors requires cultural and language capabilities. Bilingual services differentiate your offering.

Property Management

Luxury property services cater to high-net-worth French residents and investors. Premium management commands higher fees.

PropTech Solutions

The Dubai PropTech Hub initiative targets supporting 200+ companies by 2030. This sector will attract over $300 million in investment.

Complete Cost Breakdown for Business Setup in Dubai (2026 Updated)

Mainland Company Setup Costs

• Trade License: AED 15,000-30,000 depending on activities
• Office/Ejari: AED 10,000-30,000 annually for physical office space
• Visa costs per person: AED 5,000-7,000, including medical, Emirates ID, and processing
• Initial approval and name reservation: AED 600-2,500
• Memorandum of Association: AED 2,000-5,000
• Dubai Chamber registration: AED 1,000-2,000
• Total First Year (1 visa): AED 25,000-60,000

Free Zone Company Setup Costs

• License fee: AED 10,000-50,000, varying by zone and activities
• Office space: AED 5,000-40,000 from flexi-desk to private office
• Visa costs per person: AED 5,000-7,000
• Total First Year (1 visa): AED 15,000-80,000

Popular budget options:

• Sharjah SPC starts at AED 5,750 annually with a flexi-desk included. This represents the most affordable Free Zone entry point.
• IFZA packages begin at AED 12,900 for a zero-visa setup. One-visa packages cost AED 14,900.
• DMCC offers premium positioning starting around AED 32,000-34,000 for specialized packages.

Additional Ongoing Costs

• Annual license renewal: Similar to initial license fees for most zones
• VAT registration and filing: Required if revenue exceeds AED 375,000
• Accounting and bookkeeping: AED 1,000-3,000 monthly for professional services
• PRO (Public Relations Officer) services: AED 3,000-8,000 annually
• Banking fees: Account maintenance charges and minimum balance requirements vary by bank

Hidden Costs to Consider

• Document attestation and translation: AED 500-2,000 for apostille and certified translations
• Corporate bank account opening assistance: AED 1,000-5,000 for expedited service
• Legal consultation: AED 500-2,000 per hour for contract reviews
• Office setup and furnishing: Variable based on requirements if taking physical office

These costs can change. Always verify current fees with relevant authorities before making financial commitments.

Visa Options and Requirements for French Nationals

1. Short-Term Entry

French passport holders receive a 90-day visa on arrival automatically. Multiple entries are permitted during the validity period. Extensions are possible through immigration offices.

This generous visa policy allows you to visit Dubai for business setup without advance visa arrangements.

2. Long-Term Business Visas

Investor visas link to business ownership as a shareholder or partner. Validity is 2-3 years, renewable.

An employee visa applies if employed by your own company as a general manager or in a similar role. Same validity period.

Medical fitness testing is mandatory at approved centers. Emirates ID includes biometric registration.

3. Golden Visa for Business Owners (10-year)

Requirements include a minimum AED 30,000 monthly salary with 6 months’ employment proof. Educational documents require attestation.

The previous requirement for employing 10 people no longer applies. This makes the Golden Visa more accessible for smaller businesses.

Benefits include long-term stability without renewal every 2-3 years. Family sponsorship is permitted. You don’t require a sponsor, giving complete independence.

4. Family Sponsorship

You can sponsor your spouse and children once you establish residency. Minimum salary thresholds apply depending on accommodation type.

Educational documentation needs attestation. Accommodation proof through tenancy contracts is required.

Also Read: E-commerce in UAE – Benefits, Registration & Fees Explained

Leveraging French Community Networks and Support Systems

1. French Business Council Dubai

Membership provides networking opportunities through monthly events and business forums. Mentorship programs support new French entrepreneurs entering the market.

2. La French Tech UAE (French Tech Dubai-Abu Dhabi)

The 2024-2025 season focuses on AI and green tech. Startup ecosystem support includes access to funding and investor networks.

Major events include participation at GITEX North Star and GITEX Global. The organization connects members to the global French Tech network.

3. CCI France UAE

The network represents 800+ members, making it the largest French-speaking business community in the Middle East.

The Synergy Club for entrepreneurs and SMEs meets twice monthly in Dubai. The GCC-France Business Forum organizes regular events, with a major forum held in October 2025.

The Le Booster Dubai program provides flexible company setup support. Training and knowledge-sharing initiatives help members stay competitive.

4. Business France UAE

Regional headquarters support operates from Dubai. Market entry assistance helps French companies navigate UAE regulations and business practices.

Trade mission coordination connects French businesses with Emirati partners. Sectoral initiatives and French pavilions at major exhibitions increase visibility.

The organization supported 2,000 companies globally in 2024, with 800+ operating in the UAE.

Banking and Financial Setup for French Entrepreneurs

1. Choosing the Right Bank

International banks with French connections:

BNP Paribas Middle East offers French-language services and understands Franco-Emirati business requirements. HSBC UAE provides international banking capabilities. Emirates NBD delivers strong local market knowledge.

Consider multi-currency account capabilities. International transfer fees vary significantly between banks. Online banking functionality affects operational efficiency.

Islamic banking options follow Sharia-compliant principles. Conventional banking follows traditional Western models. Choose based on your business requirements and personal preferences.

2. Corporate Account Requirements

Typical documents include:

Passport copies for all signatories. Emirates ID for UAE residents. Trade license showing your business activities. Tenancy contract proving your business address. Business plan explaining operations and financial projections.

Minimum balance requirements range from AED 25,000 to 100,000 depending on the bank and account type.

Account opening timeline averages 2-4 weeks. Personal visits are typically required for account opening, though some banks offer initial remote applications.

3. Payment Processing and Financial Tools

VAT-compliant accounting software is essential if your revenue exceeds AED 375,000. Many cloud-based solutions serve UAE businesses.

International payment gateways for e-commerce support multiple currencies. Popular options include PayTabs, Network International, and global providers.

Payroll systems for employees must comply with UAE labor law. Wages are paid on the Wages Protection System (WPS) for most categories.

4. France-UAE Banking Transfers

SWIFT transfers are standard for international payments. Currency exchange rates affect transfer costs. Some banks offer preferential rates for high-volume transfers.

Tax reporting requirements exist in both jurisdictions. The UAE-France tax treaty prevents double taxation. Maintain detailed records for both countries’ authorities.

Tax and Legal Compliance for French Nationals

1. UAE Tax Framework

Corporate tax applies at 0% on profits up to AED 375,000. Profits above this threshold face a 9% corporate tax.

Free Zone Qualifying Person status offers 0% on qualifying income. Maintaining substance requirements is essential. Non-qualifying income faces a 9% tax without the AED 375,000 exemption.

No personal income tax exists in the UAE. This represents a major advantage compared to French tax rates.

VAT is 5% for revenue ≥ AED 375,000. Voluntary registration is available between AED 187,500 and 375,000.

E-invoicing requirements begin in July 2026 for businesses with revenue ≥ AED 50 million. Smaller businesses follow in subsequent implementation phases.

2. France Tax Obligations

Tax residency determination follows the 183-day rule. If you spend more than 183 days per year in the UAE, you generally become a UAE tax resident.

The UAE-France Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement prevents paying tax twice on the same income. Study this treaty carefully with professional advisors.

French wealth tax implications may apply depending on your assets. Consult French tax advisors about reporting obligations.

You must report foreign business ownership to French authorities as required by French law. Maintain compliance with both countries’ disclosure requirements.

3. Ongoing Compliance Requirements

Annual license renewal follows similar processes to initial license applications. Submit renewal applications before expiration to avoid penalties.

Financial statements and audit requirements apply to certain company types and sizes. LLCs above specific thresholds require annual audits.

Economic substance regulations affect free zone entities. You must demonstrate real business activity in the UAE, not just a paper presence.

Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) registration identifies true company owners. This anti-money laundering measure applies to all UAE companies.

4. Recommended Professional Support

Business setup consultants can streamline the process versus DIY approaches. Consider costs against time savings and error avoidance.

PRO (Public Relations Officer) services handle visa and license processing. These specialists navigate government procedures efficiently. Expect AED 3,000-8,000 annually.

Accounting firms familiar with France-UAE regulations prevent compliance issues. Bilingual accountants who understand both systems add significant value.

Legal advisors for contract reviews and disputes protect your interests. French-speaking lawyers understand both legal systems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can French nationals own 100% of their company in Dubai?

Yes. In Free Zones, you automatically receive 100% ownership. Most mainland sectors also permit 100% foreign ownership since the 2021 reforms. No local sponsor is required for most business activities.

Q2: What is the minimum investment required for a French entrepreneur to start a business in Dubai?

Minimum ranges from AED 15,000 for a budget Free Zone setup to AED 60,000 for a full mainland setup with visa. Your actual costs depend on the chosen structure, industry sector, and location.

Q3: How long does the complete business setup process take?

License approval averages 2-4 weeks. Complete setup, including visa processing, can take 8-12 weeks total. Free zones often process faster than mainland applications.

Q4: Do I need to speak Arabic to do business in Dubai?

No. English is the primary business language throughout Dubai. French language skills can actually provide advantages within the French expat community and luxury sectors. Arabic knowledge is helpful but not required.

Q5: Which Free Zone is best for French entrepreneurs?

This depends on your business activity and budget. Technology companies benefit from Dubai Silicon Oasis. E-commerce suits Dubai CommerCity. General trading and services work well in DMCC or IFZA. Budget-conscious entrepreneurs should consider SPC starting at AED 5,750 annually.

Q6: How can I access French business community support in Dubai?

Join CCI France UAE with 800+ members. Connect with the French Business Council Dubai. Participate in La French Tech UAE for technology sectors. Attend monthly networking events and Synergy Club meetings.

Q7: What banking options work best for French-UAE business operations?

BNP Paribas Middle East and HSBC UAE offer advantages for France-UAE transfers. Local banks like Emirates NBD provide strong UAE market connectivity. Choose based on your specific international transfer needs and local banking requirements.

Q8: What happens if my business fails? What are the closure costs?

License cancellation involves settling outstanding liabilities, canceling visas, and closing bank accounts. Professional liquidation services are recommended. Costs typically range from AED 5,000 to 15,000.

Q9: Are there specific sectors where French entrepreneurs have competitive advantages?

Yes. Luxury goods, fashion, food and beverage (especially fine dining), cosmetics, hospitality, technology innovation, and professional services all leverage French expertise and brand reputation. The UAE luxury market will reach USD 7.0 billion by 2033.

Your Gateway to Success in Dubai 2026

Dubai offers exceptional opportunities for French entrepreneurs in 2026.

The France-UAE bilateral relationship continues strengthening through strategic partnerships in AI, renewable energy, and trade. Over 600 French companies already operate successfully, employing 30,000+ people.

The 2025-2026 regulatory updates create unprecedented flexibility. Executive Council Resolution No. 11 allows Free Zone companies to access mainland markets for just AED 5,000 per six months. This eliminates previous barriers between Free Zone and mainland operations.

Book your free consultation call today with the experts of JSB Incorporation for your business setup in the UAE as a French national.