The UAE has become a global hub for trade, finance, and innovation, attracting some of the world’s leading British companies. From energy giants to professional services firms, these corporations are generating substantial revenue while contributing to the country’s economic growth. For investors and business enthusiasts, understanding the presence of high-revenue British companies in the UAE reveals lucrative opportunities and market insights.
British companies in the UAE such as BP, HSBC, Deloitte, EY, and PwC have strong operations across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other key cities. Their strategic investments, local partnerships, and expansion plans have enabled them to capture a significant market share. While, they are continuously delivering consistent financial performance as well.
These corporations grow due to supportive regulations, tax incentives, and a business-friendly environment in the UAE. Collaborating with local partners or business setup consultants can help international firms navigate licensing, compliance, and operational requirements efficiently. Accordingly, it ensures their ventures are successful and sustainable in the MENA region.
Key takeaways of the British investment in the UAE
Here are the notable insights of the British corporate investment in the UAE.
- The UAE’s average real GDP growth of 4.7% from 2025 to 2030, driven by non-oil sectors.
- More than 5,000 British companies are officially registered and actively operating in the UAE.
- British brands and commercial agencies have made significant investments in the UAE, comprising 779 commercial agencies and 4,762 British brands.
- The top five UK goods exported to the UAE in the year leading up to Q1 2025 were mechanical power generators (£1.0 billion), cars (£0.9 billion), telecoms and sound equipment (£0.6 billion), medicinal and pharmaceutical products (£0.4 billion), and general industrial machinery (£0.3 billion).
- British companies to employ approximately 120,000 individuals in the UAE by 2030.
- The annual trade between the UK and UAE has surpassed £25 billion significantly.
5 Leading profitable British businesses in the UAE
These are the 5 noteworthy British firms in the UAE with the high investment returns.
BP (British Petroleum)
BP has been a key player in the UAE’s energy sector, focusing on oil, gas, and renewable energy projects. In 2023, BP’s global operating cash flow was $32 billion, with a net debt reduction to $20.9 billion. The company is actively pursuing sustainable energy initiatives in the UAE, aligning with the nation’s Vision 2030 goals.
- BP’s global operating cash flow reached $32 billion in 2023.
- The company reduced its net debt to $20.9 billion by the end of 2023.
- BP is investing in renewable energy projects in the UAE.
- The company is exploring sustainable aviation fuel production in collaboration with UAE firms.
- BP’s UAE operations focus on oil, gas, and low-carbon energy sectors.
- The firm is committed to supporting the UAE’s sustainability goals.
HSBC
HSBC has a strong presence in the UAE, offering a range of banking services to individuals and businesses. In 2023, HSBC reported a global revenue of $66.1 billion and a profit before tax of $30.3 billion. The bank is focusing on expanding its digital banking services and supporting infrastructure projects in the UAE.
- HSBC’s global revenue for 2023 was $66.1 billion.
- The bank’s profit before tax increased by 78% compared to FY22.
- HSBC is expanding its digital banking services in the UAE.
- The bank is involved in financing infrastructure projects in the UAE.
- HSBC is committed to supporting the UAE’s economic diversification efforts.
- The bank is focusing on fee-based services like asset and wealth management.
Deloitte
Deloitte has been expanding its services in the UAE, particularly in the technology and consulting sectors. In FY2025, Deloitte reported a global revenue of $70.5 billion, marking a 4.8% increase from the previous year. The company is investing in AI and digital transformation initiatives in the UAE.
- Deloitte’s global revenue for FY2025 was $70.5 billion.
- The company experienced a 4.8% increase in revenue from the previous year.
- Deloitte is expanding its services in the UAE’s technology sector.
- The firm is investing in AI and digital transformation initiatives in the UAE.
- Deloitte is involved in consulting services for the UAE’s public sector.
- The company is supporting startups and innovation ecosystems in the UAE.
PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
PwC has been a significant player in the UAE’s professional services sector, offering auditing, consulting, and advisory services. In 2023, PwC reported a global revenue of $53 billion, with the Middle East and India businesses receiving global praise for their performance. The firm is enhancing its ESG advisory services in the UAE.
- PwC’s global revenue for 2023 was $53 billion.
- The company experienced a 10% increase in revenue from the previous year.
- PwC is expanding its advisory services in the UAE’s financial sector.
- The firm is investing in digital and technology consulting in the UAE.
- PwC is involved in projects supporting the UAE’s Vision 2030.
- The company is enhancing its ESG advisory services in the UAE.
EY (Ernst & Young)
EY has been focusing on expanding its services in the UAE’s energy sector, particularly in digital transformation and cybersecurity. In FY2024, EY reported global revenues of $51.2 billion, marking a 3.9% increase from the previous year. The firm is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the UAE.
- EY’s global revenue for FY2024 was $51.2 billion.
- The company experienced a 3.9% increase in revenue from the previous year.
- EY is expanding its services in the UAE’s energy sector.
- The firm is investing in digital transformation and cybersecurity in the UAE.
- EY is involved in supporting the UAE’s infrastructure development.
- The company is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the UAE.
Process to setup a British company in the UAE
This is the step-by-step procedure for setting up a new British business in the UAE.
Decide on Your Business Setup: UK businesses in the UAE can choose Free Zone or Mainland operations.
Document Preparation for Parent Company: UK companies in the UAE must attestate key incorporation documents via UAE Embassy.
Arabic Translation Requirement: Official papers including MoA and AoA need certified legal translation before submission.
Director & Shareholder Documentation: Passport copies and passport-sized photographs are mandatory for British business relocation to the UAE.
Business Planning Essentials: Prepare a detailed business plan and obtain a company name reservation certificate.
Office Space Needs: Mainland setup requires a physical office, whereas Free Zones allow virtual or actual premises.
Application Submission: Submit all documentation and applications to the Free Zone Authority or Department of Economic Development.
Pay Registration Fees: Complete all required payments to receive the official UAE trade license and certificate.
Benefits of British corporate relocation to the UAE
Here are the advantages of the British company relocation to the UAE.
Zero Salary Taxes: UK firms in the UAE benefit as employees enjoy completely tax-free personal income earnings.
Competitive Corporate Rates: Businesses face only a 9% corporate tax, with free zone exemptions boosting profits.
Free Zone Advantages: British investors in the UAE access 100% ownership, profit repatriation, and tax-free business operations.
International Business Hub: British companies in the UAE grow due to robust networking, opportunities, and global connections.
Simplified Company Setup: Entrepreneurs enjoy simplified registration procedures, reducing bureaucracy for faster and easier UAE market entry.
Foreign Ownership Flexibility: Full foreign business ownership is allowed, particularly within free zones, supporting international company expansion.
Premium Lifestyle: Expatriates enjoy exceptional living standards, world-class amenities, and a comfortable, modern environment in the UAE.
Family-Oriented Environment: Safe neighborhoods, schools, and entertainment options make the UAE ideal for family-focused professionals.
Prime Geographical Position: Strategically located between continents, the UAE enables effortless global trade and international business operations.
Conclusion
The UAE continues to be a lucrative destination for top British companies seeking growth and high revenue. With its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies, the market offers tremendous opportunities for expansion and profit. British enterprises in the UAE benefit from stable governance, tax advantages, and access to a diverse consumer base.
By understanding local regulations and aligning with economic zones, these companies can maximize their growth potential. Consequently, they can maintain a strong foothold in the region’s dynamic business landscape. British investors start new chapter in your entrepreneurship with a UAE business setup, through KWS ME consultants right now.
