WhatsApp quoteGoldenKey's consultants wrote this guide to relocating a business from Greece to the UAE based on the files we process every week, not on theory. This guide from GoldenKey explains relocating a business from Greece to the UAE in plain language, with the costs, documents and timelines you should expect in 2026.
Key takeaways
- Start with the structure: free zone operating company, optional offshore holding.
- Attest the documents you will need before you fly.
- Your investor visa unlocks the bank account and the family visas.
- Greek shipowners and hospitality groups are deeply connected to the UAE market.
Background
Relocating Your Business from Greece to the UAE mainland licences are issued by the Umm Al Quwain Department of Economic Development, which currently processes most standard files in around 3 business days. Businesses that benefit most from Relocating Your Business from Greece to the UAE mainland licensing include trading, marine services, agriculture, small manufacturing and services, because they serve customers on site across the emirate. A Relocating Your Business from Greece to the UAE mainland company can apply for an unlimited visa quota in proportion to its office space, which free zone packages cannot match.
What to do, in order
Step 1Activity and legal form
We select the correct activity codes from the Umm Al Quwain Department of Economic Development list and the legal form, usually a LLC or a sole establishment. Nothing is submitted for relocating a business from Greece to the UAE until you have reviewed and approved it.
Step 2Trade name and initial approval
Your trade name is reserved and initial approval secured from the Umm Al Quwain Department of Economic Development, together with any external approvals the activity requires.
Step 3Office, MOA and submission
From day one, the memorandum of association is signed (online or before the notary), your tenancy is registered and the complete file is submitted to the Umm Al Quwain Department of Economic Development. This is also the point at which we answer any question specific to relocating a business from Greece to the UAE.
Step 4Licence, Chamber and immigration
With the licence in hand we register with the Chamber of Commerce and open the immigration and MOHRE files for your visas.
Documents you will need
Keep these ready before you start:
- Passport photographs on a white background
- The existing visa copy and NOC if a shareholder is on another UAE visa
- The notarised memorandum of association, which GoldenKey drafts for you
- Passport copies of all shareholders and the manager
- External approvals where the activity requires them, for example from the health authority, RERA or the municipality
Costs
Just as important, prices for relocating a business from Greece to the UAE are drawn from GoldenKey's live price list and confirmed in writing before a single dirham changes hands. Government fees change from time to time; the figures on this page update automatically when they do.
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
| Additional visa | AED 2,400 |
|---|---|
| Annual renewal | AED 6,500 |
Prices are indicative, in AED, exclusive of 5% VAT where applicable, and confirmed in writing before payment. Last updated 2026-10-07.
Why the UAE
English is the working language of business, contracts are routinely drafted in English, and government portals are bilingual, which simplifies relocating a business from Greece to the UAE for international business owners. The UAE sits within an eight-hour flight of two-thirds of the world's population, which is why so many business owners choose it as a base for relocating a business from Greece to the UAE.
How GoldenKey helps
GoldenKey is based in Ajman Free Zone and has helped entrepreneurs from more than 60 countries with relocating a business from Greece to the UAE, so the paperwork, approvals and timing hold no surprises for us. Just as important, after your Relocating Your Business from Greece to the UAE licence is granted, the same team handles renewals, visa additions, amendments and tax registrations, so you never have to explain your business twice.
Prefer to visit? Our Ajman office welcomes walk-ins during working hours, and we can also meet you in Dubai or Sharjah by appointment to discuss relocating a business from Greece to the UAE.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need an Emirati partner for a Relocating Your Business from Greece to the UAE mainland company?
For most commercial and industrial activities, no. Since 2021 foreign nationals can own 100% of a Relocating Your Business from Greece to the UAE mainland LLC. A short list of strategic activities still requires Emirati participation, and GoldenKey checks your activity before you commit.
How much office space do I need for a Relocating Your Business from Greece to the UAE mainland licence?
The Umm Al Quwain Department of Economic Development requires a registered tenancy for most licences. A small office or a desk in a business centre is enough for a few visas, and the visa quota increases with the floor area.
Can I convert my free zone company to a Relocating Your Business from Greece to the UAE mainland company?
From day one, you cannot convert directly, but you can open a mainland branch of your free zone company or set up a new mainland LLC and transfer the business. GoldenKey advises on the most tax-efficient route.
Are Relocating Your Business from Greece to the UAE mainland companies subject to corporate tax?
Yes. Mainland companies pay 9% corporate tax on profits above AED 375,000 and must register with the FTA, which GoldenKey handles as part of your setup.
