To attract global multinational corporations (MNCs) and consolidate its position as the premier corporate capital of the Middle East, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has officially launched the Regional Headquarters (RHQ) Subsidy Program. This premium incentive package offers up to AED 5 Million in corporate setup subsidies, full customs duty exemptions, and fast-track Golden Visas for key executive talent.
Dubai as the Ultimate Regional Corporate Hub
The RHQ Program is designed to incentivize global enterprises to establish their primary administrative, treasury, R&D, and decision-making centers in Dubai. The program is open to international groups operating in multiple countries that choose to base their Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) headquarters in the Emirate.
By offering direct financial subsidies and operational incentives, the Dubai government is actively competing with other regional capitals to capture high-value corporate operations, top-tier executive talent, and substantial corporate treasury deposits.
Consultant Insight for MNCs
To qualify for the DET RHQ subsidies, companies must demonstrate a minimum local operational commitment, including a physical corporate office in Dubai, a designated number of senior executive roles based locally, and a minimum annual operating expenditure.
Key Subsidies and Benefits
Approved Regional Headquarters can access a suite of premium incentives:
- • Setup Capital Grants: Cash grants of up to AED 5 Million to offset the costs of office design, technology deployment, and initial recruitment.
- • Customs Exemptions: 100% exemption on customs duties for all office equipment, computers, and corporate assets imported to establish the HQ.
- • Talent Immigration Quotas: Fast-track, priority processing for 10-year UAE Golden Visas for all C-suite executives, directors, and senior specialists, along with their dependents.
Structuring Your RHQ Setup
Structuring a regional headquarters requires careful legal drafting, corporate tax planning, and coordination with local licensing bodies like the DED or free zone authorities. The corporate charter must be optimized to handle cross-border transactions, intellectual property licensing, and intra-group services in compliance with OECD transfer pricing guidelines.
Our corporate advisory team works with multinational legal and finance departments to draft robust corporate structures, secure DET pre-approvals, and manage the complete setup process.