About NHBC
We are a Dubai based consultancy firm, specialized in setting up businesses and conducting market research for our clients in the United Arab Emirates.
Setting up a business doesn't merely consist of getting the right structure and license, it entails much more such as selecting the right office space or warehouse, meeting the right partners, clients or investors, hiring of personnel, amongst others.
With more than 15 years of combined experience spanning across several industry sectors, we understand your needs and advise you on your new business endeavours and the best way forward: be it a setup in a Free Zone or a setup in UAE Mainland, individual or corporate shareholder, flexi desk or office space or even ensuring a smooth business operation on an everyday basis.
We know all the ins and outs, all the possible problems you might face and issues you might encounter while setting up your business, but more importantly - we know how to avoid them.
We speak your language
We welcome clients from all over the world and our proficiency in English, Dutch, Spanish and French help our European and global clients be comfortable and communicate in the language of their choice while we work with them through the process of business setup in Dubai and the UAE.
We understand the language of business and have in-depth knowledge about double taxation treaties between our clients' country and the UAE which is paramount to provide proper corporate advice.
We provide honest timeframes, a direct approach, and end-to-end service to our European and global clients. Even after our services have concluded, we communicate regularly with our clients and work towards being strong partners in their success.
Managing Director
Francesca has advised numerous international companies and European individuals with business setups and market introductions.
NHBC aims to deliver a personalised tailored approach to clients, instead of generic cookie-cutter solutions that are offered in the industry.
Her knowledge on UAE business setups, banking, marketing, project management and government related services have helped clients find suitable, profitable expansion and sound fiscal solutions for their businesses.
In addition to working in the UAE, Francesca has worked in Australia, Spain and the Netherlands. Her fluency in European languages and intercultural communication skills make clients feel at ease.
A&A Associate is a preferred partner of NHBC
Our Blog
Steps to start your sports management company in Dubai, UAE
Dubai is known for its love for sports! More than 1 million people view sporting events every year in Dubai. This love for sports translates into huge business opportunities. It’s a fact that sports are a fast growing business environment worth over 50bn USD worldwide. With expert company setup professionals, it’s easy to join this thriving marketplace.
Best Free Zone for Opening an Advertising Agency in Dubai
Dubai is the most incredible business hub in the world. There are several start-ups or multinational companies flourishing every year. As the number of companies increase day by day, we need the right advertising to reach your target audience. Therefore, opening an advertising agency is a promising business opportunity in Dubai. Even if it’s a start-up or well-established firm, you need to recruit an advertising agency to popularize your products or services. Advertising firms in Dubai and Abu Dhabi virtually involve in online and offline marketing strategies with utmost innovation to grab the attention of visitors.
Abu Dhabi ADX to create more foreign investors with blue-chip index of 15 liquid stocks
Abu Dhabi securities exchange (ADX) and FTSE Russell developed a long-standing partnership where you can experience the world-class index expertise in the UAE exchange. Further, it sets the benchmarks for the growing capital market eco-system. This partnership has been a world-class suite that meets all the needs of both investors and retail in the local and global market.
Changes in UAE Labour Law: What You Need to Know
Following amendments to Labour Law which came into effect from 1st February 2022, there are now 12 different types of work permits in the United Arab Emirates.
Financial Crime: Hundreds of Cases Pursued in Crackdown
The Executive Office for Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Finance has confirmed that hundreds of cases are being actively pursued by prosecutors in the United Arab Emirates. Releasing details of recent prosecutions and the deportations of suspects, the Executive Office for Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Finance said that it had confiscated more than AED 2 billion (about $544.5 million), which includes AED 1.1 billion in money laundering offences, in 2021.
Ramadan: Reduced Working Hours in UAE
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced that working hours shall be curtailed by two hours each day during the holy month of Ramadan. This is in accordance with Article 15 (2) of the Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 on Employment Relations, which explicitly states that normal working hours are to be reduced by two hours during Ramadan.
Mashreq Bank Launches Program to Assist SMEs Access Working Capital
Mashreq Bank’s Supplier Finance initiative leverages the credit worthiness of large buyers to provide early payment to small suppliers, thus reducing the overall cost of financing the supply chain.
A Bounced Cheque Could Affect Your Credit Score
As of 2nd January 2022, issuing a cheque that bounces is no longer a criminal offence in the United Arab Emirates. However, it could still affect your credit score and impact your ability to secure lines of credit, according to the Al Etihad Credit Bureau. Marwan Ahmed Lutfi, the Chief Executive Officer of Al Etihad Credit Bureau clarified that several factors are involved in the computation of one's credit score, including payment of utility bills, credit card payments and bank loan installments.
Testimonials
Francesca is a personable and experienced professional in helping businesses set-up new companies in the Middle East. With her strong hands-on approach and extended networks, she gets things done quickly and customizes solutions for each business. Seventh Bridges Project Management & Services provides fast and fit-for-purpose temporary bridges for rental in the offshore and maritime sector. We highly recommend Francesca's valuable services at very cost-effective prices.
Hendrik van der Ham - founder of Seventh Bridges Project Management & Services
Testimonial from Seventh Bridges Project Management & Services
After several failed attempts to open our corporate bank account in Dubai, we were advised to contact NHBC. After NHBC took over this application process, we finally managed to get our bank account approved. Due to the close relationship we’ve built with Francesca, we expanded our business relation. She is now our partner for our company related work, visa and HR related subjects and she guides us with questions regarding the UAE law. Francesca is not only a nice personality but also a real good professional. If she doesn’t know a direct answer, she will find out and always revert back with the right advise.
Bas van Hoof - Keller Kitchens FZ-LLC
Testimonial from Keller Kitchens FZ-LLC
We needed a partner in UAE to setup a UAE business as a hub for our projects in South East Asia and Africa. We needed advice for choosing the right Free Zone and bank, and assistance with the setup and opening of a corporate bankaccount. While we didn't have the time nor knowledge of all the possibilities for setting up our business in the UAE, we were happily surprised that New Horizons Business Consultants helped us out in a very resolute way forward. Earlier contacts with other company advisors didn't end up with an incorporated freezone company and active corporate bank account. Francesca knows her way around in UAE, from the staff members of the Free Zones to the right bank employees. This was the only right way to set up the business and the bank account, we're glad we found a consultant who introduced us to the right people.
After setting up our FZ-LLC, we never missed any deadline for visa renewal or renewal of our company license or other contracts. NHBC’s doesn't stop after the initial setup but is ongoing. Even when picking up important documents in the UAE, anything related to banks or government authorities, there is no delay in the needed services. Francesca doesn't have to think about twice - it's embedded in the service oriented company of hers. So for Dutch entrepreneurs who would like to set u a business in the UAE we recommend NHBC and its owner Francesca to you as the right start of doing successful business in this hub to the rest of the world.
Testimonial from SunWind Renewables FZ-LLC
After setting up our UAE Free Zone Company, it seemed to be impossible to get our corporate bank account opened. After numerous failed attempts, we were advised to contact Francesca Bouwman from NHBC Dubai. She managed to navigate us through this daunting process smoothly and managed to get two corporate bank accounts opened. Thank you! Boxpal International FZE.
Testimonial from Boxpal International FZE
Francesca Bouwman from NHBC has assisted Scandia Gear with setting up a branch in Dubai Mainland. Because of her knowledge of local legislation and customs, this process went very well. She assisted us with all administrative actions required for the business setup, opening of the corporate bank account, but also, for example, supervising visa applications and work permits.
We experience Francesca as a pleasant personality and a constructive and cooperative consultant.
Ad Jongenelen - Manager Global Operations at Scandia Gear
Testimonial from Scandia Gear
Francesca is extremely knowledgeable, professional and approachable. Highly motivated and outgoing, she builds trusting relationships easily and is well respected in her industry. She is a highly valuable asset to any company that is planning to set-up a complete new business in the UAE region.
- Zettex International
Testimonial from Zettex
"Applying for my residence VISA, the Emirates-ID and a company bank account were daunting tasks for me. I didn’t know where to begin or which questions to ask, and office employees never seemed to follow through when I asked.
New Horizons Business Consultants did everything – with almost no time or effort for me. The best part was that I could completely trust their managing director Francesca to represent my company professionally and guide me through the labyrinth of public authorities and bank branches.
When Francesca says "no worries" you can consider tasks as done. Many thanks to the team of NHBC and my best compliments for Francesca!“
Ralph Szabo - PharmTrade EU
