For most clients, this illustrative scenario shows how a Swiss founder set up a hospitality business in Dubai with GoldenKey; names and figures are representative of typical client journeys rather than a specific client.
The starting point
A Swiss entrepreneur from Zurich wanted to launch a hospitality business serving customers in the UAE and Switzerland. The priorities were a credible licence, a residence visa and a business bank account within a realistic budget.
Why Dubai
After comparing options, Dubai was chosen for its unrestricted UAE-wide trading and because tourism & hospitality is a well-established activity there. GoldenKey confirmed the activity code and the visa package in the first consultation.
The process
GoldenKey reserved the trade name, obtained initial approval and submitted attested documents from Switzerland. The licence was released in line with the usual Dubai timeline, followed by the establishment card, investor visa, medical test and Emirates ID.
Banking and tax
Importantly, with the licence and visa in hand, GoldenKey prepared the bank file and introduced the client to a bank suited to tourism & hospitality. Corporate tax registration was completed within the FTA deadline and VAT registration was timed to the expected turnover.
The outcome
For most clients, the business was invoicing customers within weeks of the first call, with a UAE address, a resident founder and a compliance calendar managed by GoldenKey. The same path is available to any Swiss founder considering tourism & hospitality in Dubai.
Indicative pricing for Dubai
- 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
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
| Additional visa | AED 3,500 |
|---|---|
| Annual renewal | AED 12,000 |
Prices are indicative, in AED, exclusive of 5% VAT where applicable, and confirmed in writing before payment. Last updated 2026-10-07.
Why GoldenKey
Day to day, our office is a short drive from the Ajman Free Zone, Ajman DED and the immigration centre, so physical submissions for tourism & hospitality in Dubai for a Swiss founder happen the same day they are ready. In our experience, most of our Dubai clients come to us through referrals from other company owners, and for that reason we take pride in keeping every promise we put in writing.
In short, call or WhatsApp GoldenKey today and an adviser will walk you through tourism & hospitality in Dubai for a Swiss founder step by step, with no obligation and no pressure.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a double taxation agreement between Switzerland and the UAE?
It can. The UAE and Switzerland have a double taxation agreement, and a UAE tax residency certificate lets you claim treaty relief on qualifying income. GoldenKey can obtain the certificate once your company is established.
Can my family from Switzerland join me?
Once your investor visa is granted you can sponsor your spouse and children, and GoldenKey processes their visas alongside yours.
Can a Swiss citizen own 100% of a company in Dubai?
Yes — Swiss nationals can own the full share capital of a Dubai company with no local partner, exactly like any other nationality.


