United Arab Emirates vs Singapore

United Arab Emirates

• Corporate tax is just 9% on profits above AED 375,000 (~$102,110) — well below the OECD average of ~23%. The first AED 375,000 of taxable income is taxed at 0%, and qualifying free zone income can remain at 0% for up to 50 years.
• Zero personal income tax. Salaries, dividends, and investment gains received by individuals are not taxed in the UAE. For founders relocating from high-tax countries, the difference is immediate.
• Zero withholding tax on dividends, interest, and royalties paid by UAE companies to non-residents. Combined with 100+ double taxation treaties, so repatriating profits is simple and cheap.
• 100% foreign ownership has been permitted for mainland LLCs since June 1, 2021 for most commercial activities. Free zone companies have always allowed full foreign ownership. No local partner or sponsor is required.
• 45+ free zones cater to specific industries — from DMCC (commodities and trading, 26,000+ companies) to DIFC (financial services, independent common law courts) to Shams (budget-friendly freelancer packages starting from around AED 5,750, subject to package and visa choices).

Singapore

• Incorporate in 1–3 business days via BizFile+ — same-day approval for straightforward applications. Government fees total just S$315 (name reservation + registration).
• 100% foreign ownership permitted for private limited companies. No local partner or equity sponsor required — only a locally resident director is needed.
• Headline corporate tax rate of 17%, but new startups pay as little as 4.3% effective on the first S$100,000 under the startup tax exemption scheme for the first three years.
• Zero capital gains tax and zero dividend tax under Singapore's one-tier system. Profits are taxed once at the corporate level and flow to shareholders tax-free.
• Over 100 double taxation agreements reduce withholding taxes and prevent double taxation for businesses with cross-border operations.

Government fees

• Free Zone LicenceAED 15,000–50,000
• Mainland Trade LicenceAED 10,000–30,000
• Visa Establishment CardAED 2,000–5,000

Government fees

• ACRA Name ApplicationSGD 15
• ACRA RegistrationSGD 315
• Company Secretary (mandatory)SGD 300–800/yr