Can I Keep My UK Company While Living in Dubai?

Yes — you can keep your UK Ltd while living in Dubai.But the tax rules depend on where the company is managed and controlled.

This is something most directors are completely unaware of, and HMRC absolutely does check.

1. Where Is Your UK Company Tax Resident?

A company is UK tax resident if:– it is incorporated in the UK, OR– it is centrally managed and controlled in the UK.

If you move to Dubai and start making major decisions there, HMRC may argue the company is dual-resident.

2. How to Avoid Dual Residency Problems

✔ Keep UK-based directors

✔ Hold board meetings in the UK (minutes required)

✔ Have the registered office physically in the UK

✔ Avoid making “strategic decisions” from Dubai

✔ Get a UAE TRC if needed to support tax planning

✔ Maintain your bookkeeping in the UK

3. Paying Yourself as a UAE Resident

Dividends paid to a UAE resident:– are tax-free in UAE– may still be taxable in UK unless you are non-resident– require correct SRT and Split Year assessments

4. Should You Move Your Company to the UAE?

Sometimes yes — especially for:– consultants– online businesses– content creators– service-based businesses– international brands

This requires a restructuring process (Yahesa can advise).

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