The purpose of this thesis is to illustrate important considerations, as well as outlining the decisions that need to be made when considering starting to do business in the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E). Furthermore it offers an overview of the prevalent political, legal, social and economical environments that are an important basis for making the decision to expand to that region. After describing country-specific variables of the U.A.E., the business environment including business culture, industry sectors, legal and fiscal conditions, and various possible business forms will be analysed. The insights gained will be used to suggest business opportunities and to develop concrete steps on how to start business relations and set up a business in the U.A.E.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- 1 Introduction
- 1.1 Subject matter and objectives
- 1.2 Methodology and structure
- 2 The United Arab Emirates
- 2.1 Geography
- 2.2 History
- 2.3 The seven emirates
- 2.3.1 Abu Dhabi
- 2.3.2 Dubai
- 2.3.3 Sharjah
- 2.3.4 Ajman
- 2.3.5 Umm Al Quwain
- 2.3.6 Fujairah
- 2.3.7 Ras Al Khaimah
- 2.4 Government
- 2.4.1 Political system
- 2.4.2 Legal system
- 2.4.3 Foreign policy
- 2.4.4 Fiscal and monetary policy
- 2.5 Infrastructure
- 2.6 Demographics
- 2.7 Culture
- 2.8 Labour market and education
- 2.9 Economic facts
- 3 Business Environment
- 3.1 Business culture
- 3.2 Investment climate
- 3.3 Major industry sectors
- 3.3.1 Agriculture, fishery and livestock
- 3.3.2 Banking and finance
- 3.3.3 Construction and real estate
- 3.3.4 Energy
- 3.3.5 International trade
- 3.3.6 Manufacturing industry
- 3.3.7 Tourism
- 3.4 Legal aspects
- 3.4.1 Labour law
- 3.4.2 Social security law
- 3.4.3 Civil court law
- 3.4.4 Property law
- 3.4.5 Protection of industrial and intellectual property
- 3.4.6 Federal commercial law
- 3.4.7 Commercial agencies law
- 3.5 Customs and taxes
- 3.6 Business forms
- 3.6.1 Direct export
- 3.6.2 Commercial agent
- 3.6.3 Representative office
- 3.6.4 Branch office
- 3.6.5 Limited liability company
- 3.6.6 Joint stock company
- 3.6.7 Joint venture
- 3.6.8 Professional firm and professional company
- 3.6.9 Offshore companies
- 3.6.10 Licences
- 3.7 Free trade zones
- 3.7.1 Free trade zones at a glance
- 3.7.2 Free zone business forms
- 3.7.3 Free zones in Dubai
- 3.7.4 Free zones in other Emirates
- 4 Getting started
- 4.1 Business opportunities
- 4.1.1 Construction industry
- 4.1.2 Environmental technology
- 4.1.3 Health sector
- 4.1.4 Timber industry
- 4.2 Market information
- 4.3 Establishing business relations
- 4.3.1 Trade fairs and conventions
- 4.3.2 Business councils and associations
- 4.3.3 Chambers
- 4.3.4 Consultancies
- 4.3.5 Networking
- 4.3.6 Tenders
- 4.4 Business partner selection
- 4.5 Business location
- 4.6 Registration process
- 5 Conclusion and Outlook
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This master's thesis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the business environment in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, serving as a guide for companies interested in expanding their operations to this region. The thesis delves into the country's economic, political, legal, and cultural landscape, offering insights into the opportunities and challenges of doing business in this dynamic market.
- Economic and political landscape of the United Arab Emirates
- Key industry sectors and investment opportunities
- Legal framework and regulatory environment for businesses
- Cultural nuances and business practices in the UAE
- Practical steps and strategies for establishing a business in Dubai
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The thesis begins with an introduction outlining its objectives and methodology. Chapter 2 provides a comprehensive overview of the United Arab Emirates, covering its geography, history, political system, legal system, infrastructure, demographics, culture, labor market, and economic facts. Chapter 3 focuses on the business environment in the UAE, exploring its business culture, investment climate, major industry sectors, legal aspects, customs and taxes, and different business forms available for foreign companies. This chapter also examines the role of free trade zones in facilitating foreign investment. Chapter 4 offers practical guidance for businesses interested in setting up operations in Dubai, including identifying business opportunities, accessing market information, establishing business relations, selecting business partners, choosing a business location, and navigating the registration process.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The primary keywords and focus topics of this master's thesis include: United Arab Emirates, Dubai, business environment, investment climate, industry sectors, legal framework, cultural nuances, business practices, free trade zones, business setup, market entry strategies, business opportunities, and economic development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of this thesis on the UAE?
The thesis serves as a guide for companies planning to expand or start business operations in the United Arab Emirates and Dubai.
Which industry sectors offer the best opportunities in Dubai?
Key sectors include construction, banking and finance, tourism, environmental technology, and the health sector.
What are the common business forms for foreign investors?
Foreign companies can choose between direct export, commercial agents, representative offices, branch offices, LLCs, or offshore companies.
What role do Free Trade Zones play in the UAE?
Free Trade Zones facilitate foreign investment by offering specific incentives and simplified business setup procedures for international firms.
How important is cultural understanding for doing business in Dubai?
A deep understanding of the local business culture and social environment is crucial for building successful business relations in the region.
- Quote paper
- Dipl.Betriebswirt; MBA Sascha Noack (Author), 2007, Doing business in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/78336