Financial Planning for Expats in the UAE — Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Tax environment

• No personal income tax on employment or investment income
• No capital gains tax on UAE-based assets
• No inheritance tax or estate duty in the UAE
• No wealth tax
• Corporate tax introduced in 2023 at 9% — applies to businesses, not individuals

Financial infrastructure

• AED/USD peg provides currency stability against the world's reserve currency
• World-class international banking in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
• DIFC and ADGM financial free zones with English common law courts
• Strong property market with freehold ownership for foreigners in designated zones
• Golden Visa programme linking residency to investment

Is my UK pension taxable in the UAE?

The UAE has no income tax, so UK pension income paid to a UAE-resident individual is not subject to UAE taxation. However, the UK may still withhold tax at source depending on your residency status and the provisions of the UK-UAE double tax treaty. Obtaining a UAE Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) and applying for a UK NT (nil tax) coding notice can eliminate UK withholding tax on pension drawdown for genuine UAE residents.

How do I get a UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residence visa available to property investors (minimum AED 2 million), investors in UAE investment funds (minimum AED 2 million), and qualifying professionals, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers. Property investors must hold the property outright — mortgaged property qualifies only if the equity portion meets the AED 2 million threshold. Use our UAE Golden Visa Eligibility Tool for a personalised assessment.

Do I still pay UK tax if I live in Dubai?

Moving to Dubai does not automatically end your UK tax obligations. You must pass the UK Statutory Residence Test (SRT) and become non-resident before UK tax on most income ceases. Even as a non-resident, UK-sourced income (including rental income from UK property, some UK pensions, and UK employment income) may remain taxable in the UK. Inheritance Tax also reaches further than residence — from 6 April 2025 UK IHT applies to worldwide assets on a long-term residence basis (broadly, UK resident for 10 of the previous 20 tax years), and exposure can continue for up to 10 years after you leave the UK.

What is a UAE Tax Residency Certificate?

A UAE Tax Residency Certificate (TRC), also called a Tax Domicile Certificate, is an official document issued by the UAE Ministry of Finance confirming that an individual is tax resident in the UAE. It is used to claim double tax treaty benefits — for example, to apply for a UK NT (nil tax) code that removes UK withholding tax from pension or investment income for UAE residents.

Should I keep my UK bank account when moving to Dubai?

Many people moving to Dubai retain their UK bank account for managing UK property income, paying UK liabilities, and maintaining financial flexibility. However, some UK banks close or restrict accounts for non-residents under their terms of service. It is worth reviewing your banking arrangements before departure. International banks with UAE and UK presence, and specialist expat banking providers, can provide accounts designed for cross-border use.