Free Zone
Business Setup in Dubai Freezone
Start your company in Dubai’s free zones with 100% ownership, zero income tax, and world-class facilities. We handle everything—from license setup to bank account opening—so you can focus on growing your business.
Why Dubai Free Zone?
Free zone company formation in Dubai offers a cost-effective and business-friendly environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure. The setup cost varies based on the free zone, business activity, and license type. Whether you’re setting up a trading, service, or industrial business, Dubai’s free zones provide tailored solutions. With competitive costs, streamlined processes, and attractive incentives, Dubai free zone companies gain access to global opportunities while ensuring local compliance.
Types of Free Zone Company Structures
Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
A single-shareholder company, could either be an individual or a corporate entity. The key feature of this form is the 100% foreign ownership, along with the company’s limited liability, hence, is suitable for a single investor. Free Zone Company (FZCO)
Free Zone Company (FZCO)
A company with 2 to 50 shareholders, either individuals or corporate entities. Like the FZE, it offers 100% foreign ownership and limited liability but is designed for small partnerships or joint ventures.
Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC)
An FZ LLC offers flexible ownership (up to 50 shareholders), limited liability, foreign ownership, and greater freedom in free zones with expanded partnership opportunities.
Types of Licenses Available in UAE Free Zones
Commercial License
For companies engaged in the trade, export, and import of goods. Suitable for general or specialized trading.
Service License
For businesses offering professional services like consulting, marketing, IT, and other advisory roles.
Industrial License
For companies involved in manufacturing, production, and assembly, with access to warehousing and facilities.
Media License
For businesses in the media, advertising, entertainment, and publishing sectors.
E-commerce License
For companies selling goods and services online through e-commerce platforms.
General Trading License
Allows businesses to trade in multiple products without restrictions on categories.
Freelance License
For self-employed professionals in fields such as media, design, IT, and education.
Educational License
For businesses in the education and training sector, including schools and consultancy services.
Warehousing License
For businesses leasing facilities for storage, distribution, or logistics
Offshore License
For international trade and asset protection, enabling businesses to operate outside the UAE while using the free zone’s infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost depends on the free zone, business activity, license type, and visa requirements. Here’s a breakdown:
Basic Setup: Packages start from AED 12,500, especially for visa-free setups.
Visa Costs: Each additional visa typically starts at AED 1,850.
Flexible Payments: Some zones offer monthly plans from AED 1,042 depending on the services selected.
License Type & Business Activity: Costs vary based on whether the business is in trading, consultancy, e-commerce, etc., and the number of shareholders/employees.
Additional Costs: Includes office space, visa applications, and bank account setup. Many zones offer bundled packages to reduce these costs.
ll UAE Free Zone businesses must register for corporate tax with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA)—regardless of their tax rate.
Eligible Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZPs) enjoy a 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, provided they meet specific conditions (e.g., qualifying activities, adequate substance, and transfer pricing compliance).
Non-qualifying income is taxed at 9% on amounts exceeding AED 375,000.
Choose Legal Structure
Decide between a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) or Free Zone Company (FZC) based on the number of shareholders.
Select a Trade Name
Pick a unique, compliant business name in line with UAE naming guidelines.
Apply for a License
Choose the right license type (e.g., Commercial, Service, or Industrial) based on your activity.
Select Office Space
Choose from shared desks, private offices, or warehouses within the free zone.
Submit Required Documents
Prepare and submit essential documents like passport copies, business plan, and application forms for pre-approval.
Register Your Company
Once approved, sign legal documents, pay fees, and receive your business license.
Timeline: Setup typically takes 2–4 weeks, depending on the free zone and business complexity.
