Creators

Amsterdam vs Dubai for creators: two lives compared

Updated: 2026-08-17 Holdwise editorial team

Dubai offers sunshine and zero income tax. Amsterdam offers a 0% US tax rate on royalties, a way to permanent residence and access to the EU market. The Netherlands has a tax treaty with the United States, and the Emirates lack one. See the country comparison for the tax details. Besides tax, the two cities also differ as places to live and work. At Holdwise, we keep this answer up to date and change it when the rules change.

Advantages of Dubai

Sunshine all year, and an impressive skyline for every shot.
The creator economy is treated as an industry, with hubs, funds and fast visas.
Zero personal income tax, which is attractive on paper.
A time zone that overlaps with both Asian and European audiences and sponsors.

Advantages of Amsterdam

Income from the United States: if you live in the Emirates, 30% US tax is withheld on your US royalty income. If you live in the Netherlands, the rate is 0% under the 1992 treaty. With a mostly American audience, this difference counts for more than the income tax rate. See US withholding on platform income for the full calculation.
Permanent residence: after five years of residence, you can get permanent status and a way to an EU passport. In the Gulf, you get renewable visas, and your stay remains formally temporary.
Selling your business: if you sell your channel or brand, a Dutch holding receives the proceeds tax free under the participation exemption.
EU market access for products and courses, with one OSS registration.
Everyday quality of life: schools, healthcare, cycling and quiet. Over ten years, these count for a lot.

A lower customary salary is allowed if comparable work pays less, or for up to three years while a new BV is still unable to pay the full salary. With this alone, you save money. You can also borrow up to €500,000 from your own BV (besloten vennootschap, a Dutch private limited company). The lower salary is what saves tax. At €36,000 in place of €58,000, you keep about €7,100 a year more. After a later dividend, about €2,800 of that remains. The loan gives you access to money, but your tax stays the same. Calculate it with your own figures.

The main factors

First, look at where your audience lives. The more of your revenue comes from the United States, the stronger the case for the Netherlands. Second, look at your time horizon. Dubai suits a fast five-year plan, and Amsterdam suits a longer stay. Third, look at what you sell. For sales to EU consumers, a base in the EU is better. In both countries, you pay tax where you really live. See where your company is taxed.

Free advice

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We help creators with their income, their company and their tax. Tell us where you stand or what you are planning. You get free advice on your next step.

Part of Doing Business in the Netherlands, the complete 2026 guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is Dubai or Amsterdam better for a content creator? +

Dubai is better for the headline tax rate and the sunshine. Amsterdam is better for US revenue (0% on royalties under the treaty, against 30%) and for a way to an EU passport. Amsterdam also offers a tax-free sale through a holding and access to the EU market.

Do creators in Dubai really lose 30% of US earnings? +

Yes, on US royalty income. The Emirates lack a full income tax treaty with the United States. Dutch residents pay 0% under the 1992 treaty.

Can I split the year between Dubai and Amsterdam? +

You are a tax resident where your life is really based. If you split the year half and half, you get the paperwork of both countries. Choose where the real centre of your life is, and set up your structure to match.