Moving from Dubai to Serbia: company, bank account and residence

In short: register a Serbian company remotely from the UAE, open the bank account on one short trip, and apply for residence if you want to spend real time in Europe. Serbia gives you a European time zone and market access, at costs far below Western Europe.

Why UAE residents choose Serbia

• European base, outside the EU. Serbia borders four EU countries but keeps its own tax and banking rules.
• Low taxes. 15% corporate income tax and 10% tax on salaries.
• Trade access. Free trade agreements with the EU, EFTA, CEFTA, the Eurasian Economic Union, Turkey, the UK and China.
• Time zone and flights. CET, with direct flights between Belgrade and the UAE.
• Family and lifestyle. Lower living costs, European schools and short trips to the rest of Europe.

Two common structures

1. UAE company + Serbian company

The UAE company stays your international hub. The Serbian d.o.o. runs European operations, employs staff or serves as the basis for your residence. Each company needs its own real activity, contracts and bookkeeping.

2. UAE company + Serbian bank account

If you only need European banking, your UAE company can apply for a non-resident business account in a Serbian bank, with no Serbian company at all. The bank will want to understand the business model and the source of funds.

Step by step from the UAE

1. Free video call. We agree on the structure and the documents.
2. Power of attorney. You sign it before a notary in the UAE with the required legalisation, and send it to Belgrade by courier.
3. Company registration. About 5 working days after we receive the documents. Fee €650.
4. Visa D, if needed. If your nationality requires a visa for Serbia, you apply at the Serbian embassy in Abu Dhabi, usually 30–45 days. Visa-free nationals skip this.
5. One trip to Belgrade. Bank appointment and residence application, which we organise and attend with you.
6. Residence permit. Usually 30–45 days; since 2024 temporary residence can be granted for up to three years.

Tax: think before you move

Living in the UAE and owning a Serbian company does not by itself make you a Serbian tax resident. You become one if Serbia is your residence or the centre of your business and vital interests, or if you spend 183 days or more in Serbia within 12 months. Serbia and the UAE signed a double tax treaty in 2013, but its effect depends on your facts. Plan your days, your company's management and your residency before you move, and see Serbian tax residency.

General information, not tax advice. Rules depend on your nationality, residence and business; we review your case before you start.