Free Zone Company Setup
What is a Free Zone Company in Dubai?
A free zone company in Dubai is a business established within a designated economic zone that allows 100% foreign ownership.
These zones are regulated by their own authorities (e.g., DMCC, IFZA, DSO).
Designed to attract international investors with tax benefits and simplified setup.
Benefits of Setting Up a Free Zone Company
✅ 100% foreign ownership — no local partner needed
✅ Full repatriation of profits and capital
✅ 0% corporate tax (until AED 375,000 threshold)
✅ 0% import/export duties (within the free zone)
✅ Easy company registration process
✅ Dedicated infrastructure and business hubs
Popular Free Zones in Dubai
IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) – Cost-effective, flexible license options
DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) – Ideal for trading, crypto, and gold
Dubai South – Close to Expo and Al Maktoum Airport
DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) – For finance & fintech
Dubai Silicon Oasis – Best for IT and tech startups
Dubai Media City – Media, advertising, PR firms
Meydan Free Zone – Paperless registration, popular for startups
Documents Required for Free Zone Company Setup
Passport copy of shareholder(s)
Passport-size photo
Business activity selection
Initial application form
Visa documents (if applicable)
No objection certificate (if UAE resident)
Step-by-Step Free Zone Company Registration Process in Dubai
Choose the right free zone based on your activity
Submit initial application & documents
Get approval from free zone authority
Pay license and registration fees
Receive company license and formation documents
Apply for UAE residence visa (if needed)
Open a corporate bank account
Free Zone Company Setup Cost in Dubai (2025)
License Packages: Starting from AED 12,500/year
Visa Packages: From AED 3,500 – 7,000 per visa
Shared Desk/Virtual Office: AED 8,000 – 15,000/year
Total Cost Range: AED 15,000 – 30,000+ (depending on free zone and visa need)
Free Zone vs Mainland – Key Differences
Feature | Free Zone | Mainland |
Ownership | 100% foreign | 100% (for most activities) |
Office Requirement | Virtual/flexi desk allowed | Physical office mandatory |
Trade Area | Inside free zone & internationally | Across UAE + internationally |
Government Authority | Free Zone Authority | Department of Economic Development (DED) |
Cost | Lower (for small setups) | Higher (due to office, DED fees) |
Who Should Choose a Free Zone Company?
Solo entrepreneurs and startups
E-commerce or online service providers
Consultants and freelancers
IT, media, and digital marketing businesses
Import/export businesses that don’t need retail presence in Dubai
Foreign companies looking for a UAE base without local sponsorship
Types of Licenses Offered in Dubai Free Zones
Commercial License – For import/export and trading
Service License – For consultants, freelancers, agencies
Industrial License – For manufacturing (only in specific zones)
Holding License – For holding shares in other companies
E-commerce License – For online selling
Visa Eligibility in Free Zones
Most free zones offer 1–6 visa packages based on office type
Options for investors, partners, and employees
Family sponsorship possible
Flexi-desk/virtual office allows 1–3 visas
Can I Open a Bank Account with a Free Zone Company?
Yes, free zone companies can open UAE business bank accounts
Required documents:
Company license
Shareholder passport copies
Business plan
Office tenancy (if applicable)
Some popular banks: Emirates NBD, Mashreq, RAKBANK, ADCB
FAQs on Free Zone Company Setup in Dubai
How long does it take to open a free zone company?
Usually 3–7 working days after document submission.
Do I need a physical office?
Most free zones allow a flexi-desk (virtual office) option.
Can I upgrade my license later?
Yes, you can add business activities or change office size/visa quotas.
Can I do business in Dubai with a free zone license?
Only within the free zone or internationally. For local UAE trade, use a local distributor or upgrade to mainland.
Is audit mandatory?
Depends on the free zone and license type. Some zones don’t require it for small businesses.
Why Choose Us for Free Zone Company Setup in Dubai?
✅ We guide you in choosing the best free zone
✅ Affordable and transparent pricing
✅ Dedicated account manager and PRO services
✅ Fastest setup with full legal compliance
✅ Visa processing & bank account assistance