Skip to content
Free Zone Company Formation in the UAE
Want to know the cost of free zone company setup in UAE?
Free Zone Company Formation in UAE
Setting up a business in one of UAE’s Free Zones is a brilliant way to kickstart your business. Providing entrepreneurs with top-notch facilities and benefits – the jurisdiction is brimming with opportunities for those looking to invest.
If you are interested in a free zone company setup, what are you waiting for? Our qualified team has got all the answers to your questions.
What is a Free Zone Company?
These are companies that have been licensed and are governed by Free Zone Authorities. Setting up a company in the UAE Free Zone is ideal for startups. The governing body of this jurisdiction is not the same as that of the UAE Mainlands and Offshore jurisdictions – these are regulated by each Emirate’s individual Free Zone authority.
Why to Setup a Free Zone Company?
It’s simple! Much like all other jurisdictions and their attractive benefits, the UAE Free Zones boast 0% tax, better rates applicable on custom duties as well as complete tax exemption on imports and exports – making Free Zones a highly preferred destination for investors.
Benefits of a Free Zone Company Formation in UAE?
- UAE Free Zones allow for 100% foreign ownership, regardless of what nationality the investor is from.
- Free zone company setup are completely exempt from any sort of tax, income and corporate.
- The UAE Free Zones have among the most advanced communication systems created to benefit all companies set up within. Along with this, they’re also made up of the impressive infrastructure – keeping cost efficiency and usage of renewable energy at its forefront.
- Company formation in one of the Free Zones is quicker than usual – given the simple process. You can get all your paperwork and approvals processed quicker under this jurisdiction, as compared to others.
- Ideal business locality for startups and small-medium enterprises since office spaces are readily available
- If you want to go for startup without an office then you can prefer flexi desk option.
Types of Free Zone Companies
Free Zones give investors the opportunity to set up one of three types of companies in the UAE; Free Zone Establishments (FZE), Free Zone Companies (FZC), and a branch office.
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
FZEs are companies that have only one shareholder and have similar structure to that of an LLC.
- Free Zone Company (FZC)
FZCs, on the other hand, are similar establishments that involve a maximum of five shareholders.
- Branch Office/ Subsidiary
Investors have the opportunity to form branches of their companies that are based overseas, within the UAE Free Zones as well. As these are based in the UAE Free Zones, they’re regulated by their individual Free Zone authorities
The UAE is home to over 50 different Free Zones that are spread across the different Emirates, each providing its clients with simply the best benefits possible. Whether you’re a start-up or are simply looking for a space to work from – Free Zones in the UAE are your best bet. Let’s look into the Free Zones of UAE.
There’s no doubt that Dubai is the business hotspot of the UAE – given the cosmopolitan atmosphere, technological advancements, and attractive business laws. With excellent tax and customs rates, Free Zones in Dubai are perfect for all those looking to invest in an international business space. Here are some of Dubai’s most popular Free Zone locations;
- Jabal Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
- Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
- Dubai World Central (DWC)
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
- Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)
- Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)
- Dubai Internet City (DIC)
- Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSAO)
- Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC)
- Dubai Media City (DMC)
- Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP)
- Dubai Design District (D3)
Free Zones located within the Emirate of Sharjah offers the best of both worlds – world-class amenities in a pocket-friendly way. Sharjah is home to three Free Zones that are bustling with opportunities for eager entrepreneurs, these are;
- Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)
- Hamriyah Free Zone (HFZ)
- Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF)
- Sharjah Publishing City (SPC)
The capital and the largest Emirate of the UAE, Abu Dhabi is home to a vast number of businesses belonging to various industries. Offering a favorable business environment to investors looking to invest in a rapidly growing city – Abu Dhabi Free Zones can be exactly the kick you need to begin your venture. Some of the most popular ones are;
- Khalifa Industrial Zone (KIZAD)
- TwoFour54
- Masdar City
The Emirate of Ajman is strategically located to benefit the surrounding areas of the country. The Ajman port actively caters to various businesses that deal in the import and export of goods, and as their Free Zone serves as a beneficial hub for both western and eastern markets – investing in the city can be very beneficial. Here are the Free Zones you should be interested in;
- Ajman Free Zone
- Ajman Media City Free Zone
Due to a lack of awareness and general popularity among other Emirates, Fujairah is usually an Emirate that is overlooked by investors looking to set up their business. However, Fujairah has an immense amount of business privilege, given its shared border with Oman and it being situated next to several ports. Some of the Free Zones in this lively Emirate are;
- Creative City Free Zone
- Fujairah Free Zone Authority (FFZA)
- International Fujairah Free Zone (IFZA)
RAK is quickly growing to be a popular business setup location and a hub for foreign investment. The gorgeous Emirate boasts a business setup cost that is among the lowest in the country. While RAK has only one free zone, the Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone (RAKFTZ), it is still home to over 12,000 companies, owing to the brilliant incentives they offer. Provided the nature of your business activity fits in well with what the business environment of RAK is like – this can be best home you can give your brand-new business!
Umm Al Quwain has increasingly been attracting several clients for the purpose of business setup – and for all the right reasons! The Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQFTZ) offers the perfect environment for micro-businesses and establishments with a smaller budget. The investor-friendly laws within are welcoming a considerable number of investors with each passing day. If you’ve been considering a region to set up your business in, UAQ needs to be on your list!
There’s very little for you to worry about when you’ve got our experts by your side. Our team at Business Link can help in managing your paperwork, approvals, and setup procedure to ensure the experience of launching a business is as seamless as possible!