Free zones are special areas designed to attract foreign investors with tax benefits, full foreign ownership, and streamlined regulations. Each free zone has its own authority for licensing and business oversight.
Dubai’s 26 free zones support industries like technology, media, healthcare, and logistics, helping drive global trade and economic growth. Across the UAE, free zones simplify business setup and encourage foreign investment in targeted sectors.
Choose the best Free Zone that aligns with your business activities. Dubai has over 26 Free Zones, each catering to specific industries like technology, media, healthcare, and logistics. Evaluate the specific advantages, industry focus, and incentives offered by each Free Zone.
Define the nature of the business activities to determine the appropriate license type. Common licenses include:
Ensure the chosen name complies with the Free Zone’s naming conventions. The name should be unique, not violate any trademark laws, and avoid religious or political terms.
Gather the necessary documents to register your company, which typically include:
Complete and submit the application form provided by the Free Zone authority. This form will include details about the business setup in UAE, shareholders, and managers. Submit it along with the required documentation.
The Free Zone authority will review your application. Upon approval, pay the relevant fees, including registration, license, and administrative fees. Initial approval signifies that your business can proceed with further steps.
Secure office space within the Free Zone according to your business needs and budget. Options range from flexi-desks to full offices. Sign the lease agreement and submit it to the respective Free Zone authority.
Once the lease agreement is signed and submitted, the Free Zone authority will issue your business license. Obtaining a business license allows you to legally operate your business within the Free Zone.
Choose a local bank and open a corporate bank account. Provide the bank with necessary documents such as the business license, passport copies, and any additional paperwork required by the bank.
Apply for visas for shareholders, employees, and dependents as required. The Free Zone authority typically assists with visa processing. Complete the medical fitness test and apply for Emirates ID cards for all visa holders.
Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements of a chosen free zone, including financial reporting, audit, and license renewal. Free Zone licenses typically need to be renewed annually. Submit renewal applications and pay the annual renewal fees on time.
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| Free Zone | Industry Focus | Salient Features |
|---|---|---|
| DMCC | Commodities trading, financial services | State-of-the-art infrastructure, tax exemptions, 100% foreign ownership, strategic location |
| DSO | Technology, IT | Advanced IT infrastructure, incubation centers, educational institutions, support for R&D |
| DIFC | Financial services, banking | Common Law framework, world-class financial services infrastructure, global network access |
| DAFZA | Aviation, logistics | Proximity to Dubai International Airport, advanced logistics facilities, 100% foreign ownership |
| JAFZA | Logistics, manufacturing | Extensive warehousing, strategic port location, comprehensive support services |
| DHCC | Healthcare, medical services | Dedicated healthcare infrastructure, comprehensive licensing, medical research support |
| DMC | Media, advertising | State-of-the-art media facilities, networking events, support for media production |
| DIC | IT, telecommunications | Advanced IT infrastructure, incubation support, skilled workforce access |
| Dubai South | Aviation, logistics | Near Al Maktoum International Airport, extensive logistics facilities, streamlined processes |
| IFZA | Various business activities | Flexible office solutions, cost-effective packages, diverse business network |
| Free Zone | Industry Focus | Salient Features |
|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) | Financial services, professional services, fintech | Common Law jurisdiction, regulatory framework aligned with international standards, tax exemptions, 100% foreign ownership |
| Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) | Manufacturing, logistics, trade, industrial activities | Strategic location near Khalifa Port, advanced logistics and industrial infrastructure, tax benefits, 100% foreign ownership |
| Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) | Aviation, manufacturing, trading, services | Proximity to Sharjah International Airport, tax exemptions, 100% foreign ownership, modern infrastructure |
| Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) | Manufacturing, trading, services, industrial activities | Flexible business setup packages, advanced industrial and commercial facilities, tax benefits, 100% foreign ownership |
| Fujairah Free Zone | Trading, logistics, services, industrial activities | Strategic location near Fujairah Port, tax exemptions, 100% foreign ownership, comprehensive business support services |
Forming a company in a UAE Free Zone comes with specific requirements and costs, determined by the authorities in each free zone. At RIZ & MONA CONSULTANCY, we offer a range of options for entrepreneurs looking to establish their businesses. You can start your free zone company formation with costs ranging from as low as AED 5,750* to as high as AED 50,000*. The UAE market provides numerous free zone company formation opportunities, with some of the most cost-effective and affordable options are:
At RIZ & MONA CONSULTANCY, our experts help you choose the best free zone for your business based on your activity and budget.
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Riz & Mona Consultancy is renowned as one of the top business setup consultants in Dubai, with over 15 years of experience facilitating a wide range of businesses throughout the UAE. Our deep connections with government officials and key authorities, combined with our extensive expertise in consultancy, streamline the process of establishing your business in Dubai. Additionally, we offer comprehensive financial, legal, and corporate services to support our clients throughout their business endeavors.
We are here to provide comprehensive support for your Free Zone Company Formation, from preparing your documents to completing the process. Connect with us now to begin your journey with a FREE consultation!
The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) offers the most affordable Free Zone license at AED 12,900.
An FZE is formed with a single shareholder, while an FZCO requires two or more shareholders, similar to an LLC.
Registered in a Free Zone cannot conduct business directly on the mainland without specific permissions.
No, foreign investors can have 100% ownership of their businesses in Dubai Free Zones.
Yes, businesses can own property in specific Designated Areas within Dubai Free Zones.
Yes, you can transfer your trade license from the mainland to a Free Zone by following the required procedures and obtaining necessary approvals.
Company registration typically takes about one week to complete, but this can vary depending on the specific Free Zone.
Trade license validity in Free Zones typically ranges from 1 to 5 years, depending on the Free Zone Authority’s regulations.
