What are the investment laws for foreigners in the UAE? The United Arab Emirates is considered one of the most prominent investment destinations in the world, thanks to its advanced economic environment and world-class infrastructure, in addition to laws that encourage foreign investment and guarantee the protection of investors’ rights. Investment laws in the UAE are witnessing continuous development to ensure the provision of the optimal climate that attracts investors from all over the world, as foreign investors can now fully own companies in many sectors without the need for a local partner, thanks to the amendments to the Commercial Companies Law of 2020. This step represents a qualitative leap aimed at enhancing competitiveness and increasing the flow of foreign direct investment into the country.
What are the investment laws for foreigners in the UAE ? It provides wide opportunities for investors by offering attractive tax exemptions, and providing the possibility of obtaining a golden residency that gives foreign investors and their families the opportunity to settle in the country for long periods. In addition, the law provides comprehensive legal protection that preserves the rights of investors and ensures that contracts are executed according to the highest standards of transparency and justice.
The FDI law also offers opportunities for expansion into strategic sectors such as technology, industry, and financial services, as it is designed to align with the UAE Vision 2071, which aims to make the UAE one of the best countries in the world in all fields. This development in the laws, coupled with the safe and stable economic and political environment, enhances the UAE’s attractiveness as a major hub for foreign investment.
Cooperating with specialized companies such as Itqan Company makes it easier for foreign investors to understand the details of these laws and procedures, and ensures the smooth and effective establishment of companies and investments, which enhances the chances of success and benefiting from the investment opportunities available in the country.

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ToggleSectors in which foreigners can invest fully
The UAE is one of the most attractive investment destinations for foreigners, thanks to its stable economic environment, advanced infrastructure, and investor-friendly legislation. The country has taken great strides towards liberalizing various sectors for foreign investment, especially after amending its commercial company laws, which allow full foreign ownership in many vital sectors without the need for a local partner. This change comes as part of the UAE Vision 2021 and other initiatives aimed at enhancing economic diversification and reducing dependence on oil, making the country an attractive destination for global investments.
Through these legal facilities, foreign investors can expand into multiple sectors including technology, energy, industry, tourism, and agriculture. These sectors offer great opportunities for growth and innovation, making them an ideal environment for startups and large companies alike. In addition, the UAE offers distinct opportunities in sectors such as education and health, as the country seeks to achieve significant progress in these areas to meet the needs of the growing society and contribute to sustainable growth.
Investing in these sectors not only offers the potential for high returns, but also gives investors the opportunity to benefit from the advanced infrastructure and strategic location that connects the UAE to Asian, African and European markets. In addition, the UAE offers free zones with tax exemptions and other incentives, making the investment even more attractive. Sectors that foreigners can invest in entirely:
- Technology and Innovation: The UAE is a hub for modern technology and innovation, making this sector one of the most attractive for foreign investment.
- Industry: Foreigners can invest in manufacturing sectors of all kinds, including heavy and light manufacturing, with free zones dedicated to industry such as Jebel Ali.
- Renewable Energy: As part of its plan to transition to sustainable energy, the UAE has opened the doors to foreign investment in solar, wind and other clean energy sources.
- Health: The UAE seeks to develop the healthcare sector in line with international standards, which provides huge investment opportunities in this sector.
- Education: With the increasing demand for quality education, the UAE is a promising destination for investments in international educational institutions.
- Tourism and Hospitality: Thanks to its strategic location and world-class landmarks, the tourism sector is one of the fastest growing and diversified sectors, offering great investment opportunities.
Investing in the UAE in these sectors is a unique opportunity, and guarantees foreign investors entry into a dynamic market that is keen to provide a competitive business environment full of potential.
The most prominent advantages offered by the UAE to foreign investors
The UAE is a leading global investment destination, attracting large numbers of foreign investors every year who are keen to benefit from its thriving economic climate and advanced infrastructure. The UAE’s economy is diverse and stable, providing a solid base for investors to grow their businesses. Moreover, the UAE is an important trade gateway linking Asia, Africa and Europe, enhancing access to new global markets. Government encouragement supports foreign investment through a range of laws and initiatives that aim to facilitate the establishment of companies and ensure flexibility of business operations.
The UAE offers many advantages that make it the first choice for many investors around the world. The most important of these advantages are the attractive tax exemptions in many free zones that allow investors to work without having to pay personal or corporate income tax, which enhances the chances of achieving greater returns on investment. The country also provides a solid legal framework that guarantees the protection of investors’ rights and gives them confidence in a safe investment environment. In addition, the UAE offers flexible incentives for small and medium-sized businesses and startups, as part of multiple initiatives aimed at supporting innovation and entrepreneurship.
On the other hand, the advanced infrastructure is one of the most prominent factors that make the UAE an ideal environment for investment. This includes modern airports, highly efficient ports, and advanced communication networks that make business operations smooth and fast. The UAE also enjoys a strategic location that makes it a focal point for international trade, providing easy access to regional and global markets. The most prominent advantages that the UAE offers to foreign investors:
- Tax exemptions: The UAE allows investors to operate in many free zones without imposing corporate or personal income taxes, which helps improve investment returns.
- Legal facilities: The UAE provides a flexible legal environment that protects the rights of foreign investors and guarantees them the freedom to manage their businesses without complications.
- Full foreign ownership: Foreign investors can own 100% of companies in many vital sectors and free zones without the need for a local partner.
- Political and economic stability: The UAE provides a politically and economically stable environment, which enhances confidence in long-term investment.
- Advanced infrastructure: The UAE has advanced road networks, ports, airports, and communications systems that support business efficiency and quick access to global markets.
- Extensive government support: The UAE government provides significant support to investors by launching initiatives and financing programs to encourage innovation and growth in various sectors.
These advantages make the UAE one of the best destinations for foreign investors looking to expand their businesses and achieve sustainable growth in a promising investment environment.

Learn about investing for foreigners in the UAE
In conclusion, the UAE’s foreign investment laws are the cornerstone of attracting global investments and enhancing the country’s position as a global investment and trade hub. The UAE has introduced significant legal reforms and amendments in recent years to provide a competitive and flexible investment environment that enables foreign investors to operate freely and benefit from opportunities available in various economic sectors. One of the most prominent of these laws is allowing full foreign ownership in many fields without the need for a local partner, a step that reflects the country’s commitment to achieving economic openness and enhancing global competitiveness.
Moreover, the investment laws in the UAE provide a wide range of benefits and exemptions that allow foreign investors to maximize profits and avoid many of the restrictions that may exist in other countries. Among these benefits are partial or full tax exemptions in some free zones, in addition to a flexible residency system that provides facilities such as the golden residency, allowing investors to settle down and benefit from the advanced infrastructure provided by the UAE.
Collaborating with specialized companies such as Itqan is crucial for foreign investors who seek to understand the intricacies of the laws and procedures related to investing in the UAE. Itqan provides the necessary expertise to assist investors in every step of establishing a business, from choosing the right field to fulfilling the legal and administrative requirements. This support helps reduce risks and increase the chances of success.
Ultimately, the UAE ’s investment laws reflect the country’s ambitious vision for sustainable development and economic diversification, making it one of the most attractive investment destinations in the world. By taking advantage of the available facilities and support provided by specialized companies such as Itqan, foreign investors can access new possibilities and achieve success in the growing and diverse UAE market.
Frequently asked questions about investing for foreigners in the UAE
Can foreigners fully own companies in the UAE?
Yes, foreigners can fully own companies in many sectors under the amendments to the Commercial Companies Law of 2020. Establishing a company in these sectors does not require a local partner.
What are the most prominent advantages that the UAE offers to foreign investors?
The UAE offers tax exemptions in free zones, facilities for obtaining long-term visas such as golden residency, and the possibility of transferring profits and capital completely outside the country.
Does the UAE impose taxes on foreign companies?
In most free zones, companies are exempt from income and profit tax for periods of up to 50 years. However, outside the free zones, a 9% corporate tax has been introduced from June 2023 on profits above a certain threshold.
What sectors can foreigners invest in fully?
Sectors open to full foreign ownership include: industry, technology, health, education, agriculture, renewable energy, and financial services.
What are the requirements for obtaining a golden residency for investors?
Golden residency is granted to investors who meet certain conditions such as investing large amounts in real estate, commercial or technological sectors. Golden residency provides long-term residency for the investor and his family.
What are the free zones in the UAE that provide distinctive investment opportunities?
The UAE has several free zones that offer investment incentives, including Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai International Financial Centre, and Sharjah Airport International Free Zone.