Dubai company setup for Swiss residents and citizens
Swiss clients typically value precision, discretion and a structure that will stand up to scrutiny from Swiss tax authorities. So do we.
Entry and residency
Swiss citizens can visit the UAE without a prior visa. Long-term residence is available through company ownership, employment or the Golden Visa.
Swiss points to review before moving
- Leaving Switzerland. Tax residency normally ends when you deregister from your commune and genuinely move your centre of life abroad. Keeping a Swiss home or family in Switzerland can undermine this.
- Pension assets. When leaving Switzerland permanently for a country outside the EU and EFTA, individuals may be able to withdraw occupational pension assets, subject to rules and withholding tax. Review timing carefully.
- Place of effective management. A UAE company managed from Switzerland can be treated as Swiss resident. Decisions should be made in the UAE.
- The Switzerland–UAE double tax agreement governs dividends, interest and residence conflicts.
Common structures
- A free zone operating company for consulting or trading
- A holding company in DIFC or ADGM for investments and family wealth
- A foundation for succession planning
See Holding company in the UAE.
Banking
Swiss clients with well-documented wealth generally have good access to UAE private and corporate banking. We prepare a file that meets both UAE bank requirements and the standards your Swiss bank will recognise.
Common questions
Can I keep my Swiss bank accounts?
Usually yes, though some Swiss banks change terms for non-resident clients. Check with your bank before moving.
Do UAE foundations work for Swiss families?
They can, but Swiss tax treatment of foundations and trusts is complex. Take Swiss advice on the specific structure.
Official sources
We check our guidance against these official sources. Always confirm current fees and rules before acting.