Traditionally, Australian and US founders focused on Western markets for expansion. However, business paradigms are evolving, and the commercial map is gradually shifting. Today, Asia and the Middle East have emerged as primary strategic platforms for entrepreneurs based in the US and Australia.
Singapore and Dubai offer something that’s increasingly scarce in domestic markets. Investors benefit from clear regulations, tax efficiency, and global connectivity, which keep their operations stable. Entrepreneurs are driven by cost pressures at home and by investor expectations to position their organizations commercially with greater geopolitical diversification.
For founders evaluating company formation in Singapore or establishing their operations in Dubai, the real question lies in choosing the appropriate structure to ensure growth over the next decade.
Macro Drivers Behind the Movement
First, let’s analyze the macro factors leading to this movement.
1. Rising Costs in Home Markets
The regulatory environments for entrepreneurs in both Australia and the United States are increasingly becoming expensive.
Key pressures include:
- Higher compliance and reporting obligations
- Expanding corporate tax exposure
- Escalating employment and talent costs
- Increased legal complexity around data, ESG, and governance
2. Diversification of Risk
Founders are no longer building single-jurisdiction businesses. They are structuring for:
- Currency diversification and hedging
- Multi-jurisdictional tax optimization within legal frameworks
- Political and regulatory risk balancing
- Asset protection and capital mobility
Offshore expansion has become part of enterprise risk management strategies.
3. Gateway Strategy
Geographic location still matters.
- Singapore provides investors with access to ASEAN markets.
- Dubai serves as a gateway to the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.
Why Singapore Is a Strategic Move for AU and US Founders
Singapore appeals to founders in Australia and the US.
1. Tax Efficiency with Credibility
In Singapore, the corporate tax rate is capped at 17%. There’s no capital gains tax, and an extensive double tax treaty network that benefits investors. This combination appeals to founders who require both optimisation and institutional legitimacy. This is one reason why Australian entrepreneurs choose Singapore for business expansion.
2. Regulatory Stability
Singapore offers predictable enforcement, a strong rule of law, and transparent incorporation procedures. For US founders reviewing a Singapore business setup guide, governance consistency is often the primary attraction.
3. Business Infrastructure
The sound business infrastructure in Singapore includes:
- A strong banking system
- Established capital markets
- Reliable dispute resolution frameworks
These norms are respected globally, and English is the primary language for business operations to reduce operational barriers.
4. ASEAN Market Gateway
With access to Southeast Asia’s growing consumer base, Singapore serves as a command center rather than merely an operating address.
This is also driving increased interest among founders targeting ASEAN growth in how to relocate a business from Australia to Singapore.
Why Dubai Is Gaining Attention from US and Australian Entrepreneurs
In the Middle East, Dubai continues to attract US and Australian entrepreneurs. Recent economic indicators reflect this progression:
- GDP expanded by approximately 4% year-on-year in early 2025, reaching an estimated USD 32.6 billion in the first quarter
- Foreign direct investment inflows reached roughly USD 14.2 billion in 2024, representing growth of more than 33%
- Bilateral trade with the United States exceeded USD 31 billion, with more than 3,500 active US companies operating locally
These factors continue to attract entrepreneurs.
1. Tax Environment
Personal income is not subject to tax in Dubai. Even the corporate tax framework is competitive. For founders relocating business from the US to Dubai, fiscal efficiency is often part of a broader capital strategy.
2. Capital and Access to Investors
The Gulf region holds significant sovereign and private capital. Proximity to these pools can be strategically advantageous for certain sectors.
3. Speed of Setup
Free zone structures ensure streamlined incorporation and licensing processes. Entrepreneurs frequently explore how to open a company in Dubai from Australia considering its administrative efficiency and flexibility of ownership.
4. Operational Flexibility
In most sectors, 100% foreign ownership is permitted in Dubai. This applies to most of the sectors, with licensing zones specific to sectors available. Founders and employees benefit from dedicated visa pathways.
5. Lifestyle and Talent
While not purely commercial, lifestyle positioning and the infrastructure for expatriate contribute to talent attraction and retention.
These factors explain why US entrepreneurs are moving businesses to Dubai in increasing numbers.
Structural Comparison – Singapore vs Dubai
| Consideration | Singapore | Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Gateway | ASEAN | Middle East, Africa, and South Asia |
| Corporate Tax | Up to 17% | Competitive corporate regime |
| Capital Gains Tax | None | None |
| Legal System | English common law | Hybrid civil or common framework |
| Investor Perception | Institutional and VC-aligned | Capital-access and trade-aligned |
| Setup Speed | Structured and procedural | Often faster via free zones |
Both jurisdictions offer stability. The distinction lies in regional focus and structural priorities.
What Type of Entrepreneur Chooses Which?
Singapore is typically chosen by:
- Venture-backed founders
- Technology and IP-heavy businesses
- Companies targeting ASEAN consumers
- Founders prioritising institutional governance
Dubai is often selected by:
- Trade-oriented businesses
- Founders targeting Middle Eastern and African markets
- Entrepreneurs seeking operational flexibility
- Capital-focused enterprises
Governance and Compliance Considerations
Offshore expansion does not eliminate compliance but redistributes it.
Founders must evaluate:
- Cross-border tax alignment
- Reporting obligations in home jurisdictions
- Banking and substance requirements
- Transfer pricing considerations
Poor structuring at the outset can lead to long-term complications.
How IMC Supports Australian and US Entrepreneurs
IMC works with founders and executive teams to evaluate structural fit, manage incorporation processes, and align cross-border governance with long-term strategy. Rather than approaching offshore expansion as a registration exercise, its professionals assist Australian and US entrepreneurs in building commercially resilient structures for company formation in Dubai and Singapore.
