Boutique consultancy in Dubai, the UAE and the Gulf countries
100+ success stories since 2008: entrepreneurs, international companies, chambers of commerce and embassies.
Specialising in
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- 18+
- Years in Dubai and the Gulf
- 100+
- Success stories
- 3
- Offices: Dubai, Riyadh and Miami
- 10+
- Services
Compare your options for setting up, growing and operating in the UAE
Tell us about your case and we will show you the estimated licence and visa costs in the UAE alongside what it costs to incorporate in your country.
How we work
Initial analysis
A first conversation of around 30 minutes, free of charge, to understand your case, your objectives and your needs. If the UAE or the Gulf is not the right fit, we will tell you.
30 min · Free of charge
Tailored solution or structure
We define the right strategy, structure or solution for your case. This may include a report or a fee-based consultancy engagement.
Depending on the scope
Execution on the ground
We handle the procedures, the authorities, the suppliers and the steps required on the ground.
Cost and timeframe depending on the case
Ongoing support
Administration, banking, accounting, tax, business development, investment and expansion. We can come in at any stage of the project, even if your company already exists.
Depending on your needs
Jacobo Mato
Founder and CEO of TANMIYA Business Partners
With master's degrees in International Business and Marketing from London Metropolitan University (UK) and in Foreign Trade from the Madrid Chamber of Commerce (ES), Jacobo has lived in the UAE since 2008. He began his career in the country at the Commercial Office of the Spanish Embassy. He leads TANMIYA (UAE), supporting companies and institutions as they establish themselves and expand in the Gulf.
His professional background includes experience at some of the major market intelligence, consultancy and business development firms in the region. Over these years he has delivered more than 150 projects for companies of different sizes, entrepreneurs and investors, as well as for embassies, chambers of commerce, trade promotion agencies, public bodies and international institutions.
He has also taken part in projects backed by EU funds and government institutions, and has first-hand experience as an entrepreneur and investor. He currently remains personally involved in projects covering company setup, management, investment, business development and business expansion in the UAE and the Gulf.
- In Dubai since
- 2008
- Years in the Gulf
- 18+
- Projects delivered
- 150+
The team that supports you
Claudia M.Account executive
Sara NasserFinancial specialist
Educated at IE Business School (ES) and with a background at The Abraaj Group (UAE), Sara brings experience in investment, private equity and corporate development. She combines financial analysis and strategic vision to assess projects and capital needs. Her approach helps companies and investors gauge the viability of their businesses and growth opportunities in the UAE and the Gulf.
Dadkarim MullaExternal adviser
Having studied Economics and Political Science at Brown University (US), Dadkarim brings experience in business management, investment and entrepreneurship. His career includes Mulla Group (UAE) and founding Amodoria (UAE), with projects in the Middle East and East Africa. He combines strategic vision and hands-on experience to assess business opportunities, build partnerships and drive international expansion projects.
Verónica ConesaDocumentation specialist
A sworn English translator appointed by Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (ES), Verónica has spent more than 15 years in the UAE and has professional experience at the Spanish Embassy in the UAE. She specialises in corporate, legal and commercial documentation. She combines linguistic precision with knowledge of the local environment to prepare translations for official procedures and international transactions.
Muhammad SaleemAccounting specialist
With a master's degree in Commerce and the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) qualification, Saleem has more than 15 years in the United Arab Emirates and is accredited by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). He brings experience in accounting, tax and corporate compliance. His approach supports rigorous financial management, well-organised accounting records and the monitoring of each business's obligations.
Beltrán Vega de SeoaneReal estate specialist
With a background at Savills Dubai (UAE), Beltrán specialises in residential property and investment opportunities in the United Arab Emirates. He combines market analysis, valuation and negotiation to support buyers, owners and investors. He offers service in Spanish and English and guidance tailored to each client's goals, with a transparent approach throughout the property search, selection and negotiation.
What they say about us
Embassies, chambers of commerce and trade promotion agencies, alongside large companies, SMEs and entrepreneurs. Institutional and business references, across very different profiles and sizes.
Institutional endorsement“A highly valuable assest to truly consider for strating and growing businesses in the arab countries.”
H.E. José Eugenio SalarichAmbassador of Spain to the United Arab Emirates (2012–2017) · Embassy of Spain in the UAERead in full
As a former Ambassador of Spain in the United Arab Emirates […] and having dealt with Jacob directly, I would like to state my recognition for the devoted, impeccable and passionate support to the Embassy of Spain and its companies looking to explore the market. A highly valuable assest to truly consider for strating and growing businesses in the arab countries.
Institutional endorsement“He has a broad knowledge of the country, its sectors and on how to do business here in the UAE.”
Erik Rovina MardonesCommercial Counsellor at the Economic and Commercial Office · Embassy of Spain in the UAERead in full
I know Jacobo since I arrived in Dubai in 2015, when I was posted as commercial counsellor of the commercial office of the Embassy of Spain in Dubai. Jacobo had been working there as international trade advisor way before me, in 2008. He has been in Dubai since then and has worked in different sectors and companies. As a result of that, he has a broad knowledge of the country, its sectors and on how to do business here in the UAE.
Client · United Arab Emirates“Jacob can attest and adopt any new area he is welling to explore and enhance his relationship with other.”
Hamad ALMansouriManaging Director · Al Benaa Real Estate Inv.Read in full
I have first met Jacob around 2014 when he approached us to explore new business opportunities in Abu Dhabi and other Emirates. I would recommend my friend Jacob for any international position. Jacob can attest and adopt any new area he is welling to explore and enhance his relationship with other and he can be a team player. he's very detail oriented and he values the opportunity to collaborate with others.
LinkedIn recommendations
Written by clients and associates on Jacobo Mato's profile. The full collection is on the references page.
“I've known Jacobo since around 2008, when we met in Dubai after my time at the Commercial Office of the Embassy of Spain in the UAE. Since then, we've stayed in touch over the years and, as we have both spent a long time in the region, we often end up talking about business, opportunities, contacts and what is happening in the market. We've helped each other on different occasions, shared introductions and ideas, and I've always valued Jacobo's practical knowledge of the UAE, his network and his willingness to support people and companies whenever he can. He has built a very solid professional and entrepreneurial career in the region, while remaining very connected to the Spanish business community. It has always been a pleasure to exchange ideas with him and to stay connected after so many years in the UAE.”
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“Muy agradecido especialmente con Jacobo. Escribo esto casi un año después de haber hecho todo el proceso, así que puedo decirlo ya con bastante perspectiva. Se encargó de todo mi cambio de residencia a Emiratos, además de toda la parte fiscal, y la verdad es que el trato ha sido de 10 desde el primer día. Siempre disponible, claro con todo y haciendo que un proceso que al principio puede parecer bastante complicado sea muchísimo más sencillo. A nivel personal, muy agradecido con Jacobo por cómo me ha ayudado y acompañado durante todo el proceso. Lo recomiendo 100%.”
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“I had the pleasure of working closely with Jacobo for more than two years as the Client Engagement Manager assigned to TANMIYA Business Partners at IFZA, so I got to know both him and the way he works very well. Jacobo has been in the UAE for many years, starting his journey in the region at the Commercial Office of the Embassy of Spain, and since then he has built a successful entrepreneurial career and a strong network across the UAE and the wider region. What I always appreciated most is that he is very hands-on, easy to deal with and genuinely committed to his clients. He is also someone who is always willing to help others, and over the years he has been very active in supporting the Spanish business community in the Emirates and the region, connecting people and sharing his experience whenever he can. It was always a pleasure working with Jacobo and TANMIYA, and I'm very happy to recommend him both professionally and personally.”
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“It has been a pleasure getting to know Jacobo Mato and following his professional journey in the UAE and the region. As the founder of the Spanish Business Council in the UAE, I fully appreciate the importance of having professionals with genuine market experience, and I am confident in the value and professionalism that Jacobo and his team bring to individuals and companies interested in the UAE and the opportunities the region offers.”
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“Trabajar con Jacobo Mato y el equipo de TANMIYA Business Partners ha sido un pilar fundamental para nuestra llegada a los Emiratos Árabes Unidos. En septiembre del año pasado confiamos en ellos para la constitución de nuestra SL y la obtención de la residencia emiratí, y el proceso fue ágil, transparente y totalmente profesional. Su experiencia nos ha dado la seguridad necesaria para expandir nuestro negocio desde la distancia. Una recomendación absoluta para cualquier empresario que busque garantías en la región.”
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“Hemos tenido la oportunidad de trabajar con Jacobo Mato y el equipo de TANMIYA Business Partners, y nuestra experiencia no puede ser más positiva. Destacaría especialmente su profesionalidad, cercanía y profundo conocimiento del entorno empresarial en Dubái, Emiratos Árabes Unidos y la región. En nuestro caso, nos han acompañado en cuestiones contables, fiscales, bancarias, operativas y en procesos de renovación de nuestra empresa, siempre con una atención muy personalizada, ágil y resolutiva. Su experiencia en la zona se nota desde el primer momento: conocen bien los procedimientos, anticipan posibles incidencias y aportan soluciones prácticas que ayudan a tomar mejores decisiones y a evitar trámites, costes o retrasos innecesarios. Sin duda, recomendamos a Jacobo y a todo el equipo de TANMIYA Business Partners a cualquier empresa que necesite un apoyo serio, cercano y continuado en Emiratos Árabes Unidos.”
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“Trabajar con Jacobo Mato y TANMIYA Business Partners nos ha ayudado mucho a operar con más seguridad y claridad en Dubái. Nos han apoyado en temas operativos, contables y de inversión, además de resolver dudas importantes sobre licencias, actividades permitidas y la mejor forma de estructurar el negocio en Emiratos. Gracias a su asesoramiento y experiencia local, hemos podido ahorrar mucho tiempo y evitar costes innecesarios, tomando mejores decisiones desde el principio. Lo que más valoramos es la rapidez y la disponibilidad: siempre han estado atentos, respondiendo prácticamente de inmediato y acompañándonos con un enfoque muy práctico y profesional. Y, por supuesto, la ayuda con el idioma, siempre es una ventaja en el extranjero poder comunicarte en tu idioma para asuntos legales. Recomiendo a Jacobo y a TANMIYA a cualquier empresario o emprendedor que necesite apoyo real para operar, invertir o desarrollar su actividad en Dubái con tranquilidad.”
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“Tuve el placer de colaborar últimamente con Jacobo, donde su valiosa colaboración fue fundamental para la elaboración de dos agendas de reuniones en Emiratos Árabes Unidos y Arabia Saudita para nuestra empresa. Su enfoque proactivo y su comprensión profunda de nuestros objetivos comerciales en el sector de los fertilizantes nos permitieron prospectar nuevas oportunidades de colaboración con empresas locales. Jacobo se destaca por su capacidad para coordinar y gestionar múltiples reuniones, asegurándose de que cada detalle estuviera cubierto y que pudiéramos aprovechar al máximo cada oportunidad. Su compromiso y dedicación fueron evidentes en cada paso del proceso, y gracias a su esfuerzo, logramos atender todas las reuniones programadas con gran éxito. Recomiendo a Jacobo sin dudarlo. Su profesionalismo, habilidades interpersonales y capacidad para colaborar al nivel internacional lo convierten en un gran activo.”
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“I have worked with Jacob and his company for longer than five years in a very challenging mission of AR digitizing the educational training sector across the Middle East, we managed to win many projects with key clients. I would like to state he has been an enormous asset for the company and its success in the Middle East. His adaptability, market knowledge and relationship with key players/clients was very impressive, he gets to create and harness solid and successful relationships very fast and effectively, he speaks very good Arabic and Hindi among other languages, so important to do business in the region. I would recommend his company and his services for any company interested in doing business across the Middle East.”
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“Gran profesional, dedicado, atento y muy detallista. Un placer tratar con él.”
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“Jacobo Mato turned out to be a very valuable and important asset for Duro Felguera's business development in the Middle East. Before working with him, I knew him for his successful work at the Spanish Embassy and Ofecome in Dubai as well as in market intelligence companies in Dubai. Without a doubt, a highly recommended professional, especially for commercial work and relations with people who make decisions in the Middle East and more specifically for the Emirates and Saudi Arabia.”
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“Es un profesional de 10. Se involucra mucho en el proyecto que realiza, y si no es de su ámbito procura empaparse de todo para que los resultados sean los esperados. Comunicación muy sencilla y servicios eficaces. Te ayuda en todo lo que necesites.”
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“Such a great professional, caring always about stakeholders, long-term relationships builder able to create a trusting environment around.”
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“Jacob is a hardworking gentleman with a vibrant personality that has allowed him to develop a wonderful network. he is full of energy and has been consistently achieving different professional and personal milestones. he has been a source of inspiration. i get to sometimes practice my spanish language skills with him.”
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“Jacob was Heading our New Sales activity for Ventures ONSITE for 2 years. He has a natural flair for dealing with people, which made him well accepted in his position within the first few days itself. The amount of positivity and energy he brought to the team is commendable. Even after leaving the organization he still makes sure he visits our stand in exhibitions if he is also around and referred us many clients. I am sure he will be a great asset to any organization he joins or will associate in the future. He is indeed a nice person to deal with.”
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“Jacob has a very focused mindset with outstanding domain knowledge in the field he works in, I found him to be a believer in the future of works and how technologies are shaping practices. His goal-oriented capabilities empower organizations to kick start with innovative programs with the right strategy and well-structured planning. He is also having unmatched expertise for conducting training with large groups, a diverse set of audience, and helping to shift thier mindset towards revolutionary technologies.”
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“Jacob is a person who knows perfectly the culture, the personality and traditions of citizens in Middle East (ME) and Africa. He does empathize quickly, acquiring the necessary confidence to consolidate potential businesses in this area. An excellent addition for a Company that wants to enter into the ME area or consolidate.”
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“When I met Jacob 10 years ago he surprised me for his abilities for communication. Later on during the period of time he was working in our company as Business Development Manager in the UAE region, he confirmed his strong interpersonal and communication skills which allow him to develop good working relationship with clients and management. He is enthusiastic and good team player”
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“During my time working with Jacobo, he has demonstrated a clear strategic vision and good knowledge of UAE markets. In terms of consulting and business development, I found that he is very precise, competent, creative and knows how to use the right tools to get the right results. He has a good understanding of all the pieces a business needs to be running. He has always been a great support to me and it was really a pleasure to collaborate with him. I highly recommend him for any management position.”
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Clients, references and success stories
See all references
Avoid penalties
and mistakes
Almost none of the penalties we see come from bad faith: they come from misunderstood deadlines. And almost none of the mistakes come from bad luck: they come from deciding without looking at the whole picture.
The Federal Tax Authority penalises delays and incomplete records.
- −AED 10,000
Late VAT registration
For not applying within 30 days of exceeding AED 375,000 in taxable supplies and imports.
VAT - −AED 10,000
Accounting records not kept
For not keeping the books and supporting documents required by the regulations. AED 20,000 if repeated within 24 months.
Monthly accounting - −AED 1,000
Late VAT return
Doubles if repeated within the following 24 months.
Returns filed on time - −AED 500/month
Late Corporate Tax return
For each month or part of a month of delay during the first 12 months, and AED 1,000 per month from the thirteenth month.
Corporate Tax
Amounts in force in 2026 under Cabinet Decision No. 40 of 2017 (amended by Cabinet Decision No. 129 of 2025) and Cabinet Decision No. 75 of 2023 (amended by Cabinet Decision No. 10 of 2024), applied by the Federal Tax Authority. These amounts are indicative: the actual penalty depends on each case.
Muhammad Saleem · Accounting specialist
The structure, licence and banking mistakes we see most often in files that reach us already under way.
- Structure
Choosing a free zone on price alone
The cheap licence later forces a change of activity, licence or jurisdiction. You pay twice.
Free zone or mainland - Licences
Choosing the wrong licensed activities
Wrong or insufficient activities cause problems with banks, the authorities or at renewal, with the file already under way.
Trade licences - Banking
Not looking at banking before incorporating
Some activities obtain their licence without difficulty and then cannot open an account. It is studied beforehand.
Corporate bank account opening - Calculator
Compare the cost of setting up your company in your country and in Dubai
Tell us about your case and we will show you the estimated licence and visa costs in the UAE alongside what it costs to incorporate in your country.
No figures, on purpose: what each mistake costs depends on the case.
What becomes expensive later if it is not looked at first: tax residency, the company's obligations and your company in your home country.
- Tax
Confusing a trade licence with tax residency
Having a company there does not automatically make you tax resident: personal residency, substance and the TRC all count.
Tax Residency Certificate - Compliance
Believing a free zone means “zero tax, zero obligations”
Corporate Tax, VAT, accounting and annual obligations apply all the same, and they catch out those who did not plan for them.
Tax registration - International tax
Incorporating without looking at your company in Spain
It opens up issues of permanent establishment, related-party transactions and tax residency in the home country.
International tax - Calculator
Compare your tax position
A separate tool to compare your tax position with that of the UAE.
No figures, on purpose: what each mistake costs depends on the case.
Three main services within a full-service consultancy
Company setup
Trade licences, visas, banking and legal structure. We simplify the bureaucracy so you can focus on growth.
Business expansion
Business meeting programmes, local representation and strategic market development across the GCC region.
Accounting
Corporate Tax, VAT, up-to-date accounts and renewals. Ongoing operational support for your peace of mind.
Visas and residency
Not all applications are the same: each category has its own requirements, documents, duration and procedure. First we identify which one applies to you, then we handle it from start to finish.
Legal consultancy
We coordinate directly what is within our remit and work with specialist law firms when the matter requires a professional licence or a specific jurisdiction. In both cases you deal with a single point of contact.
Market research
Depending on the project, the analysis covers a single country, several markets or the whole region. We combine official sources, sector information and local knowledge on the ground.
Business representation
The service adapts to the level you need: one-off representation, project-based support, a monthly presence or continuous support throughout the market entry phase.
Meeting programmes
We have organised business meeting programmes in the Gulf since 2008, for institutions, trade promotion agencies, large companies, SMEs and entrepreneurs.
Trade missions
We run missions for delegations and groups of companies, working with chambers of commerce, internationalisation agencies and public and public-private institutions.
Event support
The event as a business development tool.
Real estate investment
The structure, residency and tax aspects of the transaction, not just the property.
Our latest publications
Articles in Spanish.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai?
For simple structures it can be done in as little as 48 hours, although that is a possible case and not a guarantee. The full process depends on the jurisdiction, the activity, the approvals and the documents: the trade licence, the visa and the bank account follow one after another, and each has its own pace. We give you a realistic timeline at the start and confirm it in writing.
Do I need a local partner?
For most activities and in the free zones, 100% foreign ownership is permitted. The regulations changed to attract international capital, and today a local partner is no longer the rule. Certain activities still have their own requirements, which is why it is worth checking before choosing a jurisdiction.
How much does it cost to set up and maintain the company?
There are two items that should not be mixed up: government fees (trade licence, visas, registrations), which are paid to the authorities, and the consultancy's fees. Annual maintenance (trade licence renewal, accounting, tax filings) is the item most people forget when doing the numbers.
How does taxation work in Dubai?
The UAE applies Corporate Tax at 9% on profits above AED 375,000, and 0% below that threshold. There is also an indirect tax (VAT), with its own registration and periodic returns. A low rate does not mean there are no obligations: you have to register, keep accounts and file on time.
Do I still have tax obligations in Spain?
It depends on where you are tax resident and what ties you maintain, not on where the company is registered. Setting up a company in the UAE does not, by itself, cancel your obligations in Spain. It is the part that causes the most problems, and the one best resolved before incorporating anything, not after.
How long does a residence visa last, and can I bring my family?
There is no single duration. Each category has its own, and the Golden Visa is long-term: 5 or 10 years depending on the case, according to ICP. Some simple applications are completed in a few days once the requirements are met. The main holder's residence visa then makes it possible to process residence visas for the spouse, children and employees.
Can you guarantee that my bank account will be opened?
No, and nobody should guarantee it. The bank carries out its own review of the activity, the source of funds and the profile of the shareholders. What we do is choose the bank that fits your case, prepare a complete file and KYC, and support you through to the decision, including the compliance interviews.
Do you only work in the UAE, or in the rest of the Gulf as well?
The UAE is the base, but many projects also target Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the rest of the GCC. We have our own team in Dubai and in Riyadh, and when the operation crosses borders the same team continues: we do not send you back out to look for another adviser.
Do you also advise on real estate investment?
Yes, and with a different approach from that of an agency: buying is the easy part. What we analyse first is in whose name the property is bought, whether it is better to buy as an individual or through a company, what the implications are for residency and tax, what return is realistic and what happens on the day you want to rent or sell.
Let's talk for 30 minutes. No obligation. No sales pitch.
First conversation free of charge. We tell you whether the UAE or the Gulf countries are the right fit for your case. And if they are not, we tell you that too.