Netherlands vs DIFC (Dubai): which jurisdiction wins?

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

	Netherlands	DIFC (Dubai)
Tax headline	25.8% corporate; participation exemption for holdings	0% on qualifying income (9% otherwise)
Formation days	5	14
First-year cost	$6,500	$12,000
Treaties	95+	140+
Substance	Substance decree — mandatory directors, payroll, office	Mandatory office, directors, employees in DIFC
Banking	ING, Rabobank, ABN AMRO	DIFC-licensed banks and prime brokers

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