How do franchise ownership rules differ for local vs foreign investors?
How do franchise ownership rules differ for local vs foreign investors?
UAE nationals can own 100% of a business, but foreign investors often need a local sponsor or use a free zone setup.Free zones are great for full ownership, but your business can only operate within that zone unless you get mainland approval.Some new reforms allow 100% foreign ownership in specific sectors, so always check the latest business setup laws before signing.
1 Answer
In the UAE, local investors can often own franchises outright, while foreign investors may need a local partner or operate in a free zone to get full ownership, depending on the business activity.