Advocate Anjana Bhatia D.I is an accomplished Indian Lawyer practicing in India and the UAE. With over 25 years of experience in Law – Litigation, Corporate, Civil, Criminal, Mediation as well as registered with DIFC Wills and Probate Registry, She provides legal solutions to clients globally with strategic results.
EMIRATES REPORTER starts a series of conversations with Advocate Anjana Bhatia (D.I) from today.
ER: Many investors look at the UAE as a business hub. What makes UAE such a strong destination for setting up companies in free zones?
ADV. ANJANA: The UAE has positioned itself, with unmatched connectivity through world-class airports and seaports, then zero corporate tax in most free zones and simple company formation with limited requirements/ procedures.
ER. Some investors might think they can manage the process themselves. Is legal guidance required for the process while setting up a business in UAE?
ADV. ANJANA: Legal guidance is mainly for identifying hidden costs, compliance requirements, contracts etc. We streamline the entire journey that is securing license as per the required activities, approvals, negotiate lease, coordinating with authorities and complete the procedure to avoid penalties. It saves time, reduces costs and multiple visits to the free zones. Investors can focus on their business instead of complex legal formalities.
ER: What should one consider if any business has factory &/or warehouse requirement?
ADV. ANJANA: Space planning is an important decision for setting up industrial operations. The plot size, lease terms, the option to expand, and whether the zone allows build- to-suit facilities or only ready-made warehouses, etc one must look into before committing.
ER: Many clients hear about 0% tax in free zones. Can you explain how taxes works?
ADV. ANJANA: The appeal of zero corporate tax is real, but it comes with conditions. Free zones generally allow companies to operate with tax exemptions. Beyond tax, many zones offer customs duty exemptions, discounted utilities for selected type of business activities or being Qualifying Free Zone Person etc.
ER: What is Qualifying Free Zone Person and why should a company aim for that status?
ADV. ANJANA: A Qualifying Free Zone Person, or QFZP, is a company that meets specific requirements to benefit from preferential tax treatment. Achieving this status allows companies to enjoy zero percent corporate tax on qualifying income, while non-qualifying income is taxed at nine percent.
ER: How long does registration of a company takes in free zone?
ADV. ANJANA: Company formation can be done within a week, but land allocation, design approvals, and construction may take months. From plot reservation to operation, businesses should expect at least a month.
“The above is a general overview; outcomes differ from case to case and are subject to the discretion of the concerned authorities.”
ADVOCATE ANJANA BHATIA D.I CAN BE CONTACTED AT-
+971505944896 & +971555944896
anjana.law@gmail.com
