Expanding from Malaysia to the UAE: a guide for Malaysian founders and exporters

With the UAE-Malaysia CEPA now in force, halal, Islamic finance and technology companies have new reasons to set up in the UAE.

Why founders from Malaysia choose the UAE

• Shared strengths in halal and the Islamic economy
• Demand for technology, education and consumer brands
• A gateway to the GCC and Africa

Trade links

The UAE-Malaysia CEPA was signed in January 2025 and came into force in 2025. It is Malaysia's first trade agreement with a GCC country.

Setting up: the route most founders take

• A free zone company for trading, e-commerce and services
• A mainland licence for retail and restaurants
• Check product registration for food and cosmetics

Going to market in the UAE

• Bilingual English and Arabic marketing
• Instagram, TikTok and marketplaces for consumer brands
• Partners and distributors for retail

How Eedlee helps

We help founders and companies from Malaysia test demand, position for UAE buyers and launch: a UAE-ready website and product in English and Arabic, search and AI visibility, and lead generation aimed at the customers who fit.

Rules, fees and processes change. Confirm the details with the relevant authority or a licensed adviser before you commit.

Read next

• How to start a business in the UAE: the complete guide
• Mainland, free zone or offshore: which structure fits?
• UAE go-to-market playbook