Business Setup in Dubai Freezone
UAE free zones provide businesses with a competitive edge due to 100% foreign ownership, tax breaks, and the fast-tracked process of incorporation. This enables entrepreneurs to operate businesses within specialized zones, which were established to nurture innovation and growth.
Free zone company formation is an ideal solution for entrepreneurs and investors seeking a cost-effective and business-friendly environment. The free zone company formation in Dubai offers significant benefits, these zones are specifically designed to attract international businesses with state-of-the-art infrastructure and services.
The Dubai free zone company setup cost varies depending on the chosen free zone, business activity, and license type. Whether you are establishing a trading, service, or industrial company, a business setup in Dubai-free zones provides customized options to meet your specific needs.
With competitive Dubai-free zone company setup costs, streamlined licensing processes, and an array of incentives, a business setup in Dubai-free zone is a strategic move for any company seeking growth and expansion in the region. A Dubai free zone license provides the gateway to global opportunities while ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Type of Licenses Available in UAE Free Zones
- Commercial License
Allows companies to trade, export, and import a wide range of goods, it is suitable for general trading or specialized trading. - Service License
For companies offering services rather than tangible goods, this license covers professional services such as consulting, marketing, IT, and other advisory activities. - Industrial License
Companies involved in light or heavy manufacturing, production, and assembly, often are granted access to warehousing and manufacturing facilities within the free zones. - General Trading License
Enables businesses to trade in multiple, unrestricted products within the same license, for companies dealing in diverse types of goods without specific limitations on categories. - Freelance License
Tailored for individuals offering freelance services, this license allows a person to operate as a self-employed professional in various fields such as media, design, IT, and education. - Media License
Media licenses cater to businesses in the media, advertising, entertainment, and publishing sectors. - E-commerce License
Ideal for businesses operating online, this license enables companies to sell goods and services through e-commerce platforms.
Required Documents for Business Setup in Dubai Freezone
- Educational License
This license is issued for companies in the education and training sector, covering schools, training centers, and consultancy services within the educational domain.
- Warehousing License
Warehousing licenses allow companies to lease warehousing facilities for storage, distribution, or logistics activities. - Offshore License
Offshore licenses enable businesses to operate as an offshore entity, primarily for international trade and asset protection. These companies can conduct business outside the UAE while still benefiting from the free zone’s infrastructure.
Dubai Free Zone Company Setup Cost
The cost of free zone company formation in the UAE varies depending on the type of license and free zone chosen.
For free zone company formation in Dubai, understanding the Dubai free zone company setup cost is crucial for businesses planning to establish operations in these zones. Below are the estimated costs for setting up a business in popular free zones:
- DAFZA: Starts from AED 20,00
- RAKEZ: Starts from AED 6,000
- JAFZA: Starts from AED 12,000
- DMCC: Starts from AED 21,000
- SRTIP: Starts from AED 5,000
- IFZA: Starts from AED 12,900
- SPC: Starts from AED 6,875
- DIFC: Starts from AED 73,460
- Meydan Free Zone: Starts from AED 12,499
- ADGM: Starts from AED 73,460
- Ajman Free Zone: Starts from AED 5,555
Why Should you Choose Us
- Expert Advice
- Bespoke Solutions
- Broad Experience
- Post-Setup Support
Finmaas offers expert guidance and an individually tailored solution for developing your business in the UAE. We ensure a smooth process with our broad experience in setting up businesses. We also offer post-setup guidance. We accompany you on your entrepreneurial journey ensuring business success and growth through our expertise in every business department.
In addition to the Dubai free zone license cost, businesses must consider other potential expenses, including office space, which can vary based on location and size. Local sponsor fees (if applicable), visa processing fees, and permit costs also contribute to the overall Dubai-free zone company setup cost.
FAQ’S
How much does it cost to set up a free zone business in Dubai?
Basic Setup Costs: Some free zones, like Meydan Free Zone, offer packages starting at AED 12,500 for businesses that don’t require visas. For each additional visa, costs typically start at AED 1,850 per visa
Custom Packages: Certain free zones provide flexible payment plans. For example, Meydan Free Zone allows payments as low as AED 1,042 per month, depending on the selected services
.
Type of License: The costs also depend on the nature of the business (e.g., trading, consultancy, or e-commerce) and the number of shareholders and employees.
Additional Costs: Entrepreneurs should consider other expenses like office space, visa applications, and bank account setup fees. Some zones offer bundled services that may include these at discounted rates.
Starting in a free zone is particularly attractive because of benefits such as 0% corporate tax, 100% foreign ownership, and streamlined administrative processes
For the most accurate costs tailored to your business, it's best to consult directly with the chosen free zone authority.
How to start a business in Dubai freezone?
Determine the Legal Structure
Decide on the type of legal entity you want to establish, such as a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) for a single shareholder or a Free Zone Company (FZC) for multiple shareholders. Your choice will influence documentation and operational rules.
Choose a Trade Name
Select a unique name for your business that complies with the naming guidelines of the UAE, avoiding prohibited terms and ensuring the name is not already registered.
Apply for a Business License
Depending on your business activity, apply for the appropriate license, such as trading, manufacturing, or service-related licenses, through the free zone authority.
Select Office Space
Depending on your business needs, choose an office space from options like shared desks, private offices, or warehouses within the free zone.
Submit Documentation for Pre-Approvals
Prepare the necessary documents such as a business plan, shareholder details, passport copies, and application forms. Submit them to the free zone authority for pre-approvals.
Register Your Business
Once approvals are secured, proceed with company registration, which includes signing agreements and paying applicable fees. After registration, your business license will be issued.
These steps typically take 2–4 weeks, depending on the free zone and the complexity of your business setup
Which Dubai free zone is best?
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
A global hub for financial services, DIFC offers a robust legal and regulatory framework, tax-free benefits, and world-class infrastructure.
Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA)
One of the largest free zones in the UAE, JAFZA is ideal for logistics, trade, and manufacturing businesses due to its proximity to Jebel Ali Port.
Meydan Free Zone (MFZ)
A prime location for startups and entrepreneurs, MFZ provides affordable solutions and flexible business packages.
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
Ranked as one of the top global free zones, DMCC specializes in commodities trade, including gold, diamonds, and tea.
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
Focused on financial technology, ADGM offers a business-friendly ecosystem with access to Abu Dhabi's growing economy.
Dubai Media City
A hub for media and creative industries, it offers excellent networking opportunities and state-of-the-art facilities.
Masdar City Free Zone
Known for its focus on sustainability, Masdar attracts clean energy and tech companies.
Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)
Ideal for international trade, DAFZA offers a strategic location near Dubai International Airport and top-tier logistics support.
Sharjah Media City (Shams)
Known for affordability and ease of business setup, Shams is a favorite for freelancers and startups.
Fujairah Free Zone (FFZ)
Offers cost-effective solutions and benefits from its strategic location near Fujairah Port, ideal for logistics and shipping businesses.
These free zones cater to a range of industries and offer unique advantages such as tax exemptions, full foreign ownership, and world-class infrastructure. Depending on your business focus, choosing the right free zone can significantly impact your success.