36Kr Going Global · Middle East | Set off from Dubai and integrate into the global economic context.

Dubai is not just a city; it's a springboard to the global market. From local unicorns to multinational giants, companies that set up in Dubai not only grow rapidly but also achieve exponential expansion.

Take Careem as an example. This ride-hailing app that started in Dubai grew into the first unicorn in the tech industry in the Middle East and was acquired by Uber for $3.1 billion. Tech giants like Microsoft have also established regional headquarters here. Leveraging Dubai's advanced digital infrastructure and regulatory support, they provide cloud computing and artificial intelligence services to the entire Middle East. Consumer goods groups such as Unilever and Nestle have also set up their Middle East regional business headquarters in Dubai, utilizing Dubai's world-class logistics system and diverse talent resources to grow and thrive.

The success of these companies is not an isolated case but a concentrated manifestation of Dubai's geographical advantages, pro-business policies, and continuous innovation capabilities.

For Chinese companies, Dubai is a global "incubation base."

Multiple global rankings highlight comprehensive competitiveness

In 2024, Dubai was ranked third in the "Best Countries for Starting a Business in the World" and fifth among the world's best cities. This ranking even surpasses well-known big cities like Singapore, Los Angeles, and Amsterdam.

In the clean city rankings, Dubai ranked first globally for the fifth consecutive year and led the world in foreign direct investment (FDI) in the cultural and creative industries. It also ranked first in the world in the number of greenfield investment projects for four consecutive years.

In terms of trade and logistics, Dubai ranked fifth globally and first in the Middle East in the 2024 Global Shipping Index. It is also the only Arab city to enter the global top 20. In addition, Dubai also ranks among the top in the international arbitration ability ranking, demonstrating the high maturity and credibility of its legal and business environment.

More importantly, for expatriates, Dubai ranked 15th globally in the 2024 Mercer Cost of Living Index, indicating its good economic balance. These rankings confirm Dubai's ability as a center for international business, innovation, and global connectivity.

Dubai steadily steps into the global financial and innovation high - ground

Dubai's rise as a global economic power highlights its far - sighted leadership and focus on continuous strategic investment and innovation. As a result, Dubai has become one of the world's top ten financial centers and continues to lead in areas such as fintech, logistics, and smart city construction:

Geographical advantages

Dubai has a strategic geographical location, covering three continents: Asia, Europe, and Africa. One - third of the world's population can reach here within a four - hour flight. It is an ideal headquarters for expanding into the international market.

Smart infrastructure

Dubai ranked fourth in the 2025 IMD (International Institute for Management Development) Global Smart City Ranking, thanks to its significant investment in AI, blockchain, and digital governance. Entrepreneurs can enjoy a convenient all - digital process from company registration to visa application.

Excellent quality of life

Dubai has top - notch medical, educational, and public safety levels, providing a safe and comfortable working and living environment for entrepreneurs and their families or teams.

Free zone system provides customized services for enterprises

The free zones in the UAE are specially planned areas that offer unique regulatory and operational frameworks aimed at promoting economic activities in specific fields. These areas are established by decrees issued by the rulers of each emirate, providing professional services for specific industries and promoting trade, investment, and business operations. Free zones have their own legal and regulatory systems, which are different from those applicable to on - shore companies. Each free zone focuses on specific industries such as technology, logistics, manufacturing, or media, allowing companies to develop in an ecosystem tailored to their specific needs.

Among them, the IFZA Free Zone has become an ideal partner for global investors with its professional services and comprehensive support system.

Why should entrepreneurs choose IFZA?

IFZA is not just a free zone; it's a global entrepreneurship "incubation base." Regardless of the team size, IFZA can provide matching resources to help companies carry out business processes steadily. There are the following advantages to registering a company in IFZA:

Remote registration service

The international partner network of the IFZA Free Zone allows companies to complete company establishment without visiting Dubai in person. All registration processes can be completed remotely, greatly saving time and costs.

Flexible business licenses

The IFZA Free Zone offers thousands of business activity options covering multiple industries. Companies can even integrate multiple business activities under a single license, providing unparalleled flexibility for business development.

Comprehensive operational support

From assisting with corporate bank account opening to medical insurance services, from legal support to financial management, the IFZA Free Zone provides comprehensive and continuous support to ensure that companies can operate smoothly and continue to develop after establishment.

Four simple steps to register a company in IFZA

Step 1 Consultation and plan customization: Professional partners at IFZA will develop a detailed plan based on the company's needs, including the type of business license, scope of business, visa package, and office space selection.

Step 2 Material preparation and submission: Submit the application form and relevant documents (such as a copy of the passport, UAE residence visa, or ID card). The IFZA team will be responsible for the review and registration process.

Step 3 Issuance of licenses and company documents: After approval, the company will receive electronic copies of documents such as the Memorandum of Association (MOA), Articles of Association (AOA), and resolutions. After signing, they can apply for the collection of paper documents to complete the registration.

Step 4 Receive continuous support: After the company is registered, IFZA will continue to provide support in areas such as visa management, office relocation, medical insurance, bank account opening, and license renewal to ensure the company operates in compliance and develops smoothly.

After company registration, the ecosystem of the IFZA Free Zone will continue to support the company, including assisting with opening a corporate bank account and providing medical insurance coverage. IFZA's partners can also participate in the micro - course training at the IFZA Academy to learn key business skills such as customer service, sales, communication, and compliance.

IFZA, opens the door to successful entrepreneurship in Dubai for you

IFZA has a global network of professional partners, providing full - process registration services for companies.

The IFZA Free Zone has many unique advantages:

• The registration fees are transparent and relatively low, especially suitable for small, medium, and micro - enterprises in fields such as trade, consulting, and services.
• The registration process is simple, and remote company registration is supported. A company can be registered within 5 - 7 working days.
• The scope of business licenses is broad. In the IFZA Free Zone, each business license can cover three cross - industry business activities without additional fees.
• Professional consulting services are provided, covering essential knowledge such as bank account opening, license types, and fiscal and legal affairs.
• There is no requirement to lease a physical office. Shared offices and virtual offices can be provided free of charge to start - up companies.
• There are professional Chinese staff to provide comprehensive support for Chinese companies.

If you are interested in entering the Dubai market, please scan the QR code below or click "here" to fill out the form and contact IFZA's professional partners. Let them guide you through the process of setting up a company in Dubai!