From Philippines to a
UAE company.
Filipino BPO and IT founders, healthcare professionals, traders, OFWs converting to entrepreneurs. Diaspora context: approx 700,000 Filipino nationals and residents in the UAE (third-largest expatriate community).
Key facts for Filipino founders.
- Philippines corporate income tax: 25% large; 20% small
- Philippines-UAE DTA: in force since 2008; 10% dividend WHT cap
- UAE corporate tax: 9% above AED 375,000; 0% QFZP
- Philippines: territorial system; non-resident citizens (NRCs) taxed only on PH-source income
- Philippines delisted from FATF grey list February 2025
Entry & residency
Filipino nationals receive 30-day visa-on-arrival. UAE company setup unlocks Investor Visa, Golden Visa, Employment Visas (5-10 days). Direct flights daily Manila-Dubai/Abu Dhabi.
UAE bank onboarding
Smooth onboarding. Mashreq, ENBD, ADCB, FAB, Wio, Standard Chartered accept Filipino applicants with BIR tax clearance, Philippine-bank reference (BPI, BDO, Metrobank, UnionBank). 3-4 week onboarding.
Common questions from Philippines.
Filipino founders asking the most common questions on UAE incorporation. Each answer is current to 2026.
Can a Filipino own a UAE company?
Yes. 100% ownership of UAE free-zone and mainland LLCs. BSP registration required for outbound capital but not approval.
Do I need BSP approval for UAE company capital?
No specific approval, but BSP registration required for FX from banking system under Circular 818. Form 1 via authorised dealer bank. Enables future repatriation. Non-banking-system FX doesn't require registration.
Is the Philippines-UAE DTA in force?
Yes since 2008. Caps dividend WHT at 10% (5% for substantial holdings of at least 10%), interest at 10%, royalties at 10%. UAE TRCs recognised by BIR.
Will Philippines tax my UAE company income?
Depends on residency. Filipino tax residents taxed on worldwide income (up to 35%). Non-resident Filipino citizens (NRCs) taxed only on PH-source income, leaving UAE company profits outside PH tax scope.
Can I move from OFW employment to entrepreneurship?
Yes. Many UAE-based OFWs transition from employment visa to Investor/Entrepreneur visas via UAE company formation. 5-year Green Visa (AED 500k SME-endorsed); 10-year Golden Visa (AED 2M).