Oman Extends Residency Card Validity to 10 Years – Major Breakthrough
Oman Extends Residency Card Validity to 10 Years, marking a major shift in expat
The UAE’s rise as a business powerhouse is rooted in its rich history. For centuries, its strategic positions along the trade routes of the Persian Gulf have connected Asia, Europe, and Africa with commerce as far back as 3000 B.C.
In the 19th century, treaties signed by the British set up the Trucial States and ensured a level of stability through pearling and trade. Oil was discovered in the 1950s, and with the leadership and vision of the late Sheikh Zayed, the UAE was formed in 1971 and began on the path of prosperity. Early diversification such as that set out by the Jebel Ali Free Zone in 1985 already made it possible to operate with a reduced level of oil dependence while appealing to businesses worldwide. With a GDP of $405 billion, projected to be the world’s 2024, the UAE has continued to implement reforms of major significance attracting investors through 100% foreign ownership (2021) and 9% corporate tax (2023). In a globally embracing, cosmopolitan environment pervaded by traditional customs, the UAE attracts a very diverse workforce, all powered by pioneering technology embracing 5G networks and AI initiatives.
Visionary plans like Dubai’s Vision 2030 and Abu Dhabi’s sustainability aspirations mark the UAE as an emerging ready hub. From ancient trade routes to modern free zones, in the UAE an entrepreneur meets unparalleled opportunities!
In 2025, the UAE strengthens its role as a global business hub, with non-oil GDP growth projected at 5% and oil at 2.9%, reflecting successful diversification. Abu Dhabi remains the economic engine, contributing to 60% of the UAE’s GDP, which reached $267 billion in H1 2024.
Jafza has made a good contribution to logistics, with a trade value of $169 billion in 2023, aligning with the UAE’s AED 4 trillion non-oil trade goal by 2031. International partnership is expanding via CEPA with Eurasian countries and onward to a $200B trade target with China by 2030. Ranking 7th in the world for startups, the UAE-Dubai hosted 10.62M tourists (Jan-July 2024) worth AED 24.6B in revenue.
Non-oil trade dashed to AED 1.3 trillion in 2024, thus solidifying global connectivity. Jobs in the non-oil sector hit an 11-month high in April 2025, taking some pressure off capacity. The world-standard infrastructure, 9% corporate tax rate, and 100% foreign ownership make the UAE quite appealing to entrepreneurs.
The UAE is set to lead globally through visionary initiatives that blend sustainability, technology, and economic growth. Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 will reduce oil dependency, fostering a knowledge-based economy with focus on tech and innovation. By 2030, Dubai Industrial Strategy aims to position Dubai as a top manufacturing hub, enhancing its industrial appeal for global investors.
The UAE AI Strategy 2031 will integrate AI across services, streamlining operations and boosting sectors like healthcare and transport, aligning with the UAE Centennial 2071 goals. The Dubai Economic Agenda 2033 projects AED 25.6T in foreign trade and partnerships with 400 new cities, solidifying the UAE’s trade dominance.
Sustainability drives the UAE’s future, with the Water Security Strategy 2036 cutting demand by 21% and reusing 95% of treated water, ensuring resource efficiency. The RAK Energy Strategy 2040 targets 30% energy savings and a 20% renewable share, advancing green goals. By 2051, the Food Security Strategy aims for global leadership in food security, enhancing agricultural sustainability. The ambitious Mars 2117 project envisions a human settlement on Mars, showcasing the UAE’s space innovation. With these initiatives, the UAE offers unmatched opportunities for businesses in a future-ready market.
Oman Extends Residency Card Validity to 10 Years, marking a major shift in expat
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Mainland companies can operate anywhere in the UAE and work with government clients. Freezone companies are limited to operations within their zone or international business but offer certain tax benefits.
Not necessarily. Many business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership. We’ll help you select the right structure based on your category.
Typically, you’ll need:
Passport copy
Personal photo
Entry stamp or visa page
Business activity details
We’ll provide a checklist based on your chosen jurisdiction.
Yes, we guide you through the bank selection, documentation, and appointment process to help you open a business bank account successfully.
It can restrict your business activities, increase costs, or cause banking and compliance issues. That’s why we offer consultation before you decide.
Depending on the jurisdiction and business activity, company formation can take 3 to 10 working days after document submission. We ensure every step is completed as quickly and compliantly as possible.
Yes. Based on your license type and setup structure, you can apply for investor, partner, or employee visas. We assist with end-to-end visa processing, including medicals and Emirates ID.
It depends on your goals. If you want to trade within the UAE and deal with government clients, Mainland is better. If you’re focusing on exports, cost-saving, or need 100% ownership with limited local operations, Freezone may suit you. We help match your goals with the right zone.
BYB (Build Your Business) is a specialized firm focused on building the foundation for businesses to operate globally. We provide clear guidance and practical support to individuals and companies on how to properly establish their business, follow all rules, and design its structure to begin work in different countries. Our deep knowledge includes how to stay compliant in various nations, selecting the best legal setup, and making smart choices about local business environments. We help get registrations, explain tax requirements, and put in place the basic systems for running an office. BYB is an essential partner for those starting international businesses, making sure they have a solid and rule-abiding base from the very beginning.
1209, The Regal Towers, Business Bay, Dubai, UAE
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