Ireland vs DIFC (Dubai): which jurisdiction wins?

Ireland vs DIFC (Dubai) — both credible, very different trade-offs. Below: side-by-side on the variables that actually move the decision.

	Ireland	DIFC (Dubai)
Tax headline	12.5% trading, 15% Pillar 2 for large groups	0% on qualifying income (9% otherwise)
Formation days	5	14
First-year cost	$5,500	$12,000
Treaties	75+	140+
Substance	Substance critical (CFC, BEPS)	Mandatory office, directors, employees in DIFC
Banking	BOI, AIB, plus US bank branches	DIFC-licensed banks and prime brokers

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