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Country vs country

United Arab Emirates vs Cyprus

Side by side for a genuine tax resident, with €150,000 a year in dividends or foreign income.

United Arab EmiratesCyprus
Personal income0%0% div.
Company tax0–9%15%
Minimum days9060
Cost of residencyExpensiveMedium
Tax on €150,000 a year€0€3,975
Monthly cost for one person, rent included€2,800€1,950
In the EUNoYes
Spanish blacklistNoNo
Crypto gainsNo personal income tax or capital gains tax for individuals.Since 1 Jan 2026 gains on disposal or exchange of crypto assets taxed at flat 8%; losses offset only within same year.
PensionNo personal income tax, so foreign pensions are untaxed.Option of 5% flat on foreign pension above EUR 5,000 (from 2026), plus 2.65% GESY. About 4.4% tax plus GESY.

Who wins

  • Less tax: United Arab Emirates
  • Cheaper to live in: Cyprus
  • Fewer days required: Cyprus
  • Easier to settle in: Tie

It depends on your case: your nationality, the country you leave and how you earn your money change the answer.

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