Germany – The Start Edge

Want to live in the UAE? Here’s how to make it happen.

The UAE has quickly become one of the world’s most desirable places to live — offering a unique mix of safety, stability, and tax-free living. Whether you’re looking for a better lifestyle, global business access, or a secure environment for your family, the UAE checks all the boxes.

But how do you actually make the move?

One of the easiest ways is to start your own business in the UAE and use it to apply for a residency visa — even if you’re a freelancer or remote worker.

Why thousands are relocating to the UAE:

✅ Consistently ranked among the safest countries in the world
✅ 0% income tax on personal earnings
✅ Residency visa through business ownership
✅ Sponsor your spouse and children
✅ No office needed — work from anywhere
✅ Access to top-tier healthcare, education, and infrastructure

Whether you’re from North or South America, Europe, Asia, or Africa, starting a business in the UAE gives you a clear path to live legally, earn freely, and feel secure in a forward-thinking global hub.

We make it easy.

At The Start Edge, we handle everything for you — from selecting your business activity to completing visa formalities and helping you open a UAE bank account. No red tape. No stress.

Live safely. Earn freely. Thrive globally.
Message The Start Edge today to begin your UAE journey.

Investor Visa vs Employee Visa

If you want to live or move to the UAE and you are making use of a business license to establish residency, then as a stakeholder/owner you will require an investor-type visa. The good news is that you don’t need to buy property or have a ‘large’ bank account to qualify. If you own a business in the UAE, you are an investor…

If you employ people within your business, that is when the employee visa will apply. Keep in mind that an employee visa also grants residency. Take a look at the table below which clearly lays out some key differences.

Feature	Investor Visa	Employee Visa
Visa Type	Owner/Partner of the Free Zone Company	Employed by a Free Zone Company
Eligibility	Must be listed as shareholder or manager	Must be employed by the company
Cost (Visa Fee Only) *as at May 2025 and is subject to changes	AED 2,200 (2-year validity)	AED 3,700 (2-year validity)
Medical + Emirates ID	✅ Same for both	✅ Same for both
Sponsorship Rights	✅ Can sponsor family	✅ Can sponsor family
Business Ownership	✅ Required	❌ Not required
Control Over Visa	✅ Full control (self-managed)	❌ Controlled by the employer (the company) * No Job = No Residency
Job Flexibility	✅ Can work independently under own license	❌ Bound to one employer/company
Banking & Residency Benefits	✅ Preferred for opening business & personal bank accounts	May face more scrutiny, have to prove monthly salary
Renewal Process	✅ EASY & Straightforward as long as the company is active and renewed	✅ Same, but dependent on employment terms
Flexibility to Add Partners	✅ Yes	❌ Not applicable

✅ Summary of Key Differences

Cost:

Investor Visa is cheaper AED 2,200 vs. AED 3,700 (*Prices as at May 2025, and subject to change without notice – This is a direct government cost)
Both require the same government admin fees (E-Channel, Medical, ID) For more details, please complete our Contact US form

Control:

Investor Visa gives full control over your own visa, business, and renewal
Employee Visa ties you to your employer — you can’t freelance or change jobs freely.
Investor Visa is easier to apply for, and open bank accounts, wheras employee visa’s are subject to more scrutiny.

Best For:

Employee Visa: Best for staff members working in a company you own or manage

Investor Visa: Ideal for freelancers, entrepreneurs, consultants, and anyone who wants to run their own business. Your Spouse can also be a stakeholder in the company and also qualifies for an investor visa.

High taxes in Germany? Why more professionals are moving to the UAE

Germany is known for its strong economy, excellent infrastructure, and high standard of living. However, it also has one of the highest personal and business tax burdens in Europe — a reality that is pushing many entrepreneurs, freelancers, and professionals to explore new opportunities abroad.

More and more, their choice is clear: the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The German tax burden: A heavy load

If you live and work in Germany, you know how significant the tax burden can be:

Income tax rates reach up to 45% for high earners.
A solidarity surcharge (5.5% of income tax) still applies to many.
Trade tax and church tax (up to 9%) add even more layers.
Social contributions (for pensions, healthcare, unemployment) take up to 20% of your salary.
Corporate tax rates sit around 30% when including trade tax.

While Germany offers excellent public services, the combination of high taxes and rising living costs leaves many professionals feeling financially restricted.

The UAE: A low-tax, high-opportunity destination

In comparison, the UAE offers major advantages:

0% income tax: No tax on salaries or freelance income.
No solidarity surcharge: Keep 100% of your earnings.
No trade tax: Simplified business environment.
No social security contributions: No mandatory deductions from your salary.
Low corporate tax: Only companies earning over AED 375,000 pay 9% corporate tax.

Simply put, in the UAE, you control your income — and your financial future.

More than just tax savings: Why live in the UAE?

The UAE is not just a tax haven — it’s a vibrant, dynamic country offering:

A high standard of living: Modern healthcare, international schools, and luxury lifestyle options.
Safety: Among the top-ranked safest countries globally.
Business opportunities: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah are major hubs for tech, finance, and innovation.
International community: Residents from over 200 nationalities.
Residency visa options: Set up your own company and secure a long-term UAE residency visa.

Easy Free Zone business setup with The Start Edge

Through The Start Edge, setting up a company is affordable, fast, and requires no physical office.

Company formation packages are affordable and we pride ourselves on NO HIDDEN Costs .
Apply for your UAE residency visa alongside your license.
Sponsor your family easily.
Manage your business remotely or in person — full flexibility.

Ready to live, work, and thrive in the UAE?

If you’re feeling the pressure of high taxes and limited flexibility in Germany, it might be time to rethink your future. The UAE offers freedom, opportunity, and security — all in a thriving international environment.

At The Start Edge, we make it simple:
Fast company setup, visa support, and expert advice to help you start a new chapter.

Move smarter. Keep more. Live better.
Contact us today to learn more about your options.