Kevin McKenzie, co-founder of GenZone, compares the UK’s millionaire exodus to a bottle slowly draining in the desert - revealing...
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 UK Problems |
 Dubai Solutions |
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45% Income Tax plus 20% VAT |
0% Personal Tax, 9% Corporate Tax |
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Inheritance Tax up to 40% Yearly |
0% Inheritance Tax on All Estates |
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Capital Gains Tax up to 28% |
0% Capital Gains Tax on Investments |
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Dividend Tax up to 39% Annually |
0% Tax on All Dividend Income |
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Up to 45% Crypto Taxes |
Tax-Free Crypto Gains |
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High Cost of Living with Taxes |
Tax-Free Salary Offsets Higher Living Costs |
“The level of service I received genuinely exceeded my expectations. Everything was handled so smoothly that I barely had to do anything. From the moment I landed in Dubai to my medical, biometrics, and residency, your team took care of every detail... It felt like I’d paid $100,000 for the service."
“GenZone is, without exaggeration, the best service I’ve purchased in the last five to ten years. The professionalism, honesty, integrity, and added value are unmatched... We arrived less than 48 hours ago and already received our residency cards — that’s the level of service GenZone delivers.”
If you’re unsure which company to trust for your Dubai relocation, GenZone is the best choice for UK professionals to rely on. We are trusted relocation and business setup specialists – here’s what sets us apart.
Deep understanding of HMRC requirements, Split-Year Treatment, P85 filing procedures, and Statutory Residence Test compliance for smooth UK tax departure.
Expert guidance on managing UK tax obligations, residency status, and avoiding unnecessary taxes during your move to Dubai while maintaining UK assets.
Expert guidance on applying the UK–UAE Double Taxation Agreement to your rental income, pensions, and investments - helping you avoid double taxation.
Complete business setup, HMRC exit planning, banking support, and connection to the UK's largest expat network in Dubai with 500+ successful UK relocations.
Launch your Dubai business in as little as 30 days - fully remote and completely hassle-free.
Set up your Dubai mainland company in 1 -2 months - with full market access and unlimited growth potential.
Convert your crypto holdings into real assets or compliant cash solutions in Dubai. Legal and compliant.
GenZone provides full guidance through the UAE’s 10-year Golden Visa program application.
If you are looking to move to Dubai from the UK, you’re in the right place. GenZone is the #1 relocation and business setup company in Dubai, trusted by hundreds of UK clients who have successfully relocated for tax optimisation, business expansion, lifestyle upgrades, long-term financial growth and investments.
Relocating to Dubai from the UK offers several advantages – especially for entrepreneurs, business owners, and high-net-worth individuals who want to operate their businesses in a fast-growing, low-tax, business-friendly environment.
Many of our clients come from strong UK industries that perform exceptionally well in Dubai, including consulting and professional services, e-commerce, health and wellness, hospitality, technology and AI, trading and import/export, education and kids’ services, and beauty and aesthetic sectors.
The wealth migration from the UK isn’t slowing down – it’s accelerating. High-earning professionals and business owners are increasingly finding that their financial goals and lifestyle aspirations align better with what Dubai offers than what the UK can provide.
The reasons are straightforward: rising UK tax rates, increasing regulatory complexity, and a cost of living that continues to climb. Meanwhile, Dubai presents zero personal income tax, a thriving business ecosystem, world-class infrastructure, and a quality of life that’s hard to match.
For many, it’s not just about tax savings – though those are substantial. It’s about building wealth more efficiently, accessing emerging markets across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, and enjoying a lifestyle that rewards success rather than penalising it.
Dubai has positioned itself as more than just a tax haven. It’s a fully functioning global business hub with legitimate infrastructure, legal frameworks, and economic diversification that many traditional offshore jurisdictions simply cannot offer.
A genuine business environment. Unlike island tax havens, Dubai hosts major multinational corporations, international banks, and serious professional services firms. This isn’t about hiding wealth – it’s about operating in a jurisdiction that supports business growth.
Stability and safety. The UAE offers political stability, low crime rates, and a government committed to long-term economic planning. For families relocating, this peace of mind is invaluable.
Connectivity. Dubai International Airport connects you to virtually every major city globally. You’re never more than a few hours from Europe, Asia, or Africa – critical for maintaining business relationships and exploring new markets.
Quality of life. Year-round sunshine, luxury amenities, world-class dining and shopping, international schools, and a cosmopolitan community of over 200 nationalities create an environment where UK expats feel immediately at home.
Kevin McKenzie, co-founder of GenZone, compares the UK’s millionaire exodus to a bottle slowly draining in the desert - revealing...
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Read MoreBefore you can appreciate what Dubai offers, you need to understand what staying in the UK actually costs you.
Tax burden. High earners in the UK face income tax rates up to 45%, plus National Insurance contributions. When you factor in capital gains tax, dividend tax, and inheritance tax, the compounding effect on wealth accumulation is staggering.
Regulatory complexity. Running a business in the UK means navigating increasingly complex compliance requirements, employment regulations, and reporting obligations that consume time and resources.
Limited growth potential. The UK economy, while still significant, offers limited growth compared to emerging markets accessible from Dubai. Being physically based in the Middle East opens doors to opportunities that simply don’t exist when you’re operating from London.
Many of our clients calculate that within 3-5 years of relocating, the tax savings alone justify the move – and that’s before considering business growth, investment opportunities, and lifestyle improvements.
Establishing genuine tax residency in Dubai requires more than booking a flight and renting a flat. Tax authorities – both in the UK and UAE – need to see that your relocation is legitimate, permanent, and backed by genuine ties to your new home.
Business setup is your foundation. To obtain UAE residency, you’ll need to establish a business entity in Dubai. This can be a mainland company or a free zone company, depending on your business model and where you intend to operate. Once established, you become eligible for an employment visa that grants you the right to live and work in the UAE.
The 90-day rule. To qualify as a UAE tax resident, you must spend a minimum of 90 days per year in the country. However, we strongly recommend spending significantly more time in Dubai than any other single jurisdiction to strengthen your residency claim and demonstrate genuine intent.
Severing UK ties properly. This is where most people make critical mistakes. You cannot simply leave the UK without properly notifying HMRC, addressing your property holdings, relocating your family, and closing or transferring your UK financial accounts. Half-measures create exposure to dual taxation and potential penalties.
Documentation matters. Keep meticulous records of your time in Dubai, your business activities, your residential address, and your financial transactions. If your residency status is ever questioned, comprehensive documentation is your best defence.
Moving to Dubai isn’t complicated, but it does require following a specific sequence to ensure you’re compliant in both jurisdictions.
Before you leave the UK, you need to formally establish your non-residency status with UK authorities.
Notify HMRC. Inform HM Revenue & Customs of your intention to become non-resident for tax purposes. This notification initiates the formal process and ensures you’re no longer liable for UK tax on worldwide income.
Address your primary residence. Your UK property represents one of the strongest residential ties. Selling eliminates the connection entirely – the cleanest option. Renting provides income but may still be viewed as maintaining a tie, so weigh this carefully with professional advice.
Settle capital gains obligations. Before departing, calculate any capital gains on assets and investments. Depending on your holdings, you may owe tax on gains realised before your exit. Addressing this upfront prevents future complications.
Close or transition accounts. Cancel UK credit cards, close unnecessary bank accounts, terminate memberships, and end subscriptions that tie you to the UK. These secondary ties, while individually minor, collectively signal ongoing residency.
Relocate your family. If you have a spouse or dependents, they should relocate with you. Leaving family behind significantly weakens your non-residency claim and invites scrutiny from tax authorities.
Update government services. Inform NHS, social security, and other agencies of your change in residency status to ensure you’re removed from resident-only programmes.
With your UK exit underway, the focus shifts to establishing your legitimate presence in Dubai.
Choose your business structure. Decide between a mainland company (allows trading throughout UAE and the region, now offers 100% ownership in many sectors) or a free zone company (100% ownership guaranteed, zero customs duties, but restricted to trading within the free zone or internationally).
Select your business activity. Your company’s licensed activities determine what business you can legally conduct. Be strategic – choosing the right activities from the start prevents costly restructuring later.
Register your company. This involves selecting a trade name, filing for initial approval, preparing the Memorandum of Association, and obtaining your trade licence. The process typically takes 2-4 weeks with proper guidance.
Secure your premises. Whether you need a physical office or a flexi-desk arrangement depends on your business type and licence requirements. Free zones often offer cost-effective solutions for service-based businesses.
Once your business structure is in place, you can proceed with your personal relocation essentials.
Apply for your employment visa. Your UAE company sponsors your visa, granting you a two-year residency that’s renewable. This visa allows you to legally reside in Dubai and conduct business activities.
Complete your Emirates ID. This is your official identification card in the UAE and is required for virtually all official transactions, from opening bank accounts to signing tenancy agreements.
Find your accommodation. Dubai offers diverse residential options across various price points. Popular areas for UK expats include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Arabian Ranches, and Dubai Hills Estate. Consider proximity to international schools if you have children.
Open your bank accounts. You’ll need both a personal account and a corporate account for your business. Major banks include Emirates NBD, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), and Dubai Islamic Bank. Be prepared for thorough due diligence – UAE banks take compliance seriously.
Transfer or obtain your driving licence. UK licence holders can typically transfer their licence to a UAE licence without retaking tests, though you’ll need to complete eye tests and provide required documentation.
Relocation isn’t a one-time event – it’s an ongoing status that requires maintenance and attention.
Track your days carefully. Maintain detailed records of your time in Dubai and time spent in other jurisdictions. Use calendar apps, flight records, and hotel bookings as evidence.
File UAE tax residency certificates. Obtain annual tax residency certificates from UAE authorities. These documents prove your UAE residency status and are essential for invoking the UK-UAE double taxation treaty.
Maintain business substance. Your UAE business must be genuine. This means active operations, real transactions, proper bookkeeping, and demonstrable business activity. Authorities are looking for substance, not shell companies.
Keep UK tax advisors informed. Even after leaving, you may have ongoing UK obligations related to UK-sourced income (such as rental income from UK properties). Professional advice ensures you remain compliant while minimising liability.
Review and adjust. Tax laws, residency rules, and personal circumstances change. Annual reviews with qualified advisors ensure your structure remains optimal and compliant.
The difference between a successful relocation and a costly mistake often comes down to seemingly minor details that have major implications.
Leaving too quickly. Rushing to Dubai without properly severing UK ties is the most common error. Tax authorities will look at the totality of your circumstances – if you’ve maintained too many UK connections, they can argue you never truly left.
Maintaining a UK residential property for personal use. Keeping a house “just in case” signals you’re not committed to Dubai. If you must keep UK property, ensure it’s clearly rented to third parties on commercial terms.
Spending too little time in Dubai. Meeting the bare 90-day minimum isn’t enough if you’re spending 200 days elsewhere. Your “centre of life” needs to clearly be Dubai, which typically means spending more time there than anywhere else.
Poor business substance. Setting up a Dubai company purely for the visa, with no genuine business activity, creates risk. Your company should have real operations, proper contracts, legitimate transactions, and professional bookkeeping.
Ignoring UK-sourced income. The UK-UAE tax treaty prevents double taxation, but UK-sourced income (like UK rental income or UK employment) may still be taxable in the UK. Understanding these nuances prevents unexpected tax bills.
Failing to notify HMRC. Some people leave the UK without formally declaring non-residency, hoping HMRC won’t notice. This strategy fails spectacularly when HMRC eventually investigates, as they will.
The double taxation agreement between the UK and UAE is fundamental to your relocation strategy, but it’s often misunderstood.
Residence determines taxation. The treaty determines which country has primary taxing rights based on where you’re considered resident. If you’re genuinely resident in the UAE (and properly non-resident in the UK), your worldwide income is generally not subject to UK tax.
UK-sourced income exceptions. Certain UK-sourced income – particularly rental income from UK properties – may still be taxable in the UK even if you’re UAE resident. However, you won’t pay tax twice; the treaty provides relief mechanisms.
Capital gains treatment. Capital gains from selling UK property may still be taxable in the UK depending on the type of property and when you acquired it. Professional advice is essential before disposing of significant UK assets.
Pension considerations. UK pension income received while UAE-resident is typically only taxable in the UAE – which, with no personal income tax, effectively means tax-free. This makes Dubai particularly attractive for retirees with UK pensions.
The treaty isn’t automatic. You must actively claim treaty protection by demonstrating your UAE residency status. This requires obtaining UAE tax residency certificates and properly notifying UK authorities of your status change.
Currently, the UK does not impose an exit tax when you leave the country – unlike Canada and several other jurisdictions that tax unrealised capital gains upon departure.
This means you can relocate from the UK to Dubai without paying tax on the appreciation of your business, investments, or other assets simply for leaving. You only pay UK tax on actual disposals of UK assets, not on deemed disposals triggered by emigration.
However, there’s growing discussion in UK political circles about introducing exit taxes to slow the wealth exodus. While nothing is currently proposed, the risk is real – and it’s one more reason that those considering relocation should act sooner rather than later.
Once an exit tax is introduced (if it ever is), leaving becomes significantly more expensive. Those who relocate before such measures are implemented protect themselves from this potential future burden.
While tax optimisation drives many relocations, Dubai offers advantages that extend far beyond your tax bill.
Business opportunities. Dubai serves as the gateway to rapidly growing markets across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Being physically present opens doors that simply don’t exist when you’re operating from the UK.
Networking and community. With approximately 240,000 UK residents in Dubai, you’ll find a ready-made community of like-minded entrepreneurs and professionals. The networking opportunities in this concentrated, international environment are exceptional.
Family lifestyle. Dubai offers international schools following UK, American, and IB curriculums. The city is safe, modern, and offers activities for all ages. Many families find the quality of life significantly better than what they experienced in the UK.
Investment opportunities. Dubai’s booming real estate market, emerging technology sector, and position as a financial hub create investment opportunities with growth potential that mature UK markets struggle to match.
Freedom and flexibility. The regulatory environment in Dubai is designed to facilitate business, not obstruct it. The difference in ease of doing business is immediately apparent to anyone who’s dealt with UK bureaucracy.
Different industries face different opportunities and challenges when relocating to Dubai.
Consulting and professional services. These businesses relocate seamlessly. With minimal physical infrastructure requirements and the ability to service clients globally, consultants often see immediate benefits from lower overheads and tax savings.
E-commerce. Dubai’s logistics infrastructure, free zones designed for e-commerce, and access to regional markets make it ideal for online businesses. The Dubai CommerceCity and DMCC free zones are particularly popular.
Technology and AI. Dubai is actively positioning itself as a tech hub, with initiatives like Dubai Internet City, AI-focused free zones, and government support for innovation. Tech entrepreneurs find both opportunity and support.
Trading and import/export. Jebel Ali Port, one of the world’s largest, combined with strategic location and free zone benefits, makes Dubai unbeatable for trading businesses. Access to African and Asian markets is unparalleled.
Health and wellness. Dubai’s health-conscious, affluent population creates strong demand for wellness services, fitness facilities, and health-related businesses. The sector continues to grow rapidly.
Education and kids’ services. With a large expat population and high birth rates, demand for quality education, tutoring, and children’s activities is substantial and growing.
Beauty and aesthetics. Dubai’s luxury market extends to beauty and aesthetic services. High-end beauty businesses and aesthetic clinics thrive in this environment.
Relocating to Dubai involves numerous moving parts – business setup, visa processing, bank accounts, legal compliance, property searches, and ongoing advisory. Getting any element wrong creates risk, delays, and unnecessary costs.
GenZone provides end-to-end support throughout your entire relocation journey. We don’t just help you set up a company and disappear – we ensure every aspect of your move is handled properly, compliantly, and efficiently.
Complete business setup. From selecting the optimal company structure to obtaining your trade licence, we handle the entire process. No hidden steps, no surprises, no delays.
Residency and visa processing. We manage your employment visa application, Emirates ID registration, and all related documentation. You focus on your business while we handle bureaucracy.
Banking facilitation. Opening corporate and personal accounts in the UAE can be challenging without proper guidance. We leverage our banking relationships to streamline the process and improve your chances of approval.
Ongoing compliance support. Your relationship with GenZone doesn’t end once you’re set up. We provide ongoing support to ensure you remain compliant, maintain proper substance, and adapt to any regulatory changes.
UK exit planning. We work with you to properly sever your UK ties, notify appropriate authorities, and structure your departure to minimise risk and tax exposure.
Property and lifestyle assistance. From finding the right accommodation to recommending schools, opening utility accounts, and navigating daily life in Dubai, we help you settle in properly.
Relocating to Dubai requires investment – both financial and personal. Understanding the costs upfront allows you to plan properly and avoid surprises.
Company setup costs. Establishing your business entity, obtaining licences, and setting up your physical or virtual office typically ranges from £5,000 to £15,000 depending on your business type, free zone selection, and specific requirements.
Visa and residency costs. Employment visas, Emirates ID, medical tests, and related fees typically total £3,000-£5,000 per person, including family members.
Accommodation deposits. Dubai landlords typically require one cheque for the full year’s rent upfront, plus a 5% security deposit. Budget accordingly based on your property choice.
Living costs setup. Initial furniture, utilities setup, DEWA (electricity and water) deposits, and general settling-in expenses vary widely based on your lifestyle expectations.
Professional advice. Quality tax advice covering both UK exit planning and UAE compliance is essential. Budget £3,000-£10,000 for comprehensive advisory services.
Opportunity cost. You’ll invest time in the relocation process – typically 2-3 months from initial decision to being fully operational in Dubai. Plan accordingly to minimise disruption to your business.
For most UK professionals and business owners, the investment pays for itself within the first year through tax savings alone – and the benefits compound annually thereafter.
Dubai isn’t for everyone, and we believe in honest advice – even if it means acknowledging that some people are better off staying in the UK.
Dubai works best if you:
Reconsider if you:
The decision to relocate is significant and personal. We encourage you to visit Dubai, spend time in the city, and honestly assess whether it aligns with your goals and values before committing.
If you’re ready to explore relocating from the UK to Dubai seriously, here’s your immediate action plan:
Step 1: Schedule a consultation. Book a detailed consultation with GenZone to discuss your specific situation, business model, family circumstances, and goals. We’ll provide honest feedback on whether Dubai makes sense for you and outline the optimal path forward.
Step 2: Visit Dubai. If you haven’t spent significant time in Dubai, book a visit. Experience the city, explore different areas, visit potential free zones, and get a feel for daily life. We can arrange site visits and introductions during your trip.
Step 3: Engage professional advisors. Speak with UK tax advisors who understand expatriation to assess your UK exit planning requirements. Combine their advice with GenZone’s UAE expertise for comprehensive coverage.
Step 4: Develop your timeline. Create a realistic timeline for your relocation, considering business obligations, family needs, school terms (if you have children), and property matters. Most successful relocations follow a 3-6 month planning period.
Step 5: Begin the process. Once you’re committed, GenZone initiates your business setup, visa processing, and all required documentation. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
Relocating from the UK to Dubai offers substantial benefits for the right individuals and businesses – significant tax savings, business growth opportunities, lifestyle improvements, and long-term wealth accumulation that’s difficult to achieve while remaining UK-resident.
However, success requires proper planning, legitimate business substance, genuine residency in Dubai, and proper severance of UK ties. Shortcuts and half-measures create risk, exposure, and potential penalties that eliminate the benefits you sought.
GenZone exists to ensure your relocation is done properly. We’ve guided hundreds of UK clients through this exact process, and we understand both the opportunities and the pitfalls intimately.
If you’re ready to explore whether Dubai is right for you, reach out to GenZone today. We’ll provide honest, expert advice tailored to your specific circumstances – because your success in Dubai is our success.
Ready to start your UK-to-Dubai relocation journey? Contact GenZone for a comprehensive consultation and discover how we can make your move seamless, compliant, and successful.
Most agencies operate like sales teams and push predefined packages. GenZone works differently.
Yes, we’re based in Business Bay, Dubai, and work directly with all major Free Zones. We support clients from the UK and around the world through dedicated relocation teams that ensure a seamless, stress-free setup.
Yes. GenZone is fully licensed and highly experienced in setting up both Free Zone and Mainland companies in Dubai. During your consultation, our team will advise you on the optimal structure based on your business activity, budget, and residency objectives.
Yes. GenZone provides complete support with:
Costs depend on your business activity, license type, and number of visas. GenZone typically offers all-inclusive Free Zone packages with one visa, ranging from £6,500 to £7,500.
Absolutely. You may book a complimentary consultation with one of GenZone’s experts by scheduling it here
info@genzone.co
+971 58 104 7071
+971 58 264 8628
Office 702, Churchill Tower,
Business Bay, Dubai, UAE