Free Zone Company Registration

Set up your company in the UAE's premier Free Zones. Enjoy 100% foreign ownership, absolute tax exemption, zero customs duties, and world-class infrastructure tailored to your business sector.

1. Understanding UAE Free Zones

UAE Free Zones are special economic jurisdictions designed to attract international trade and foreign investment. Offering benefits like 100% company ownership, zero personal and corporate income tax, and full capital repatriation, Free Zones are ideal for export-oriented, tech, and service companies looking for a global launchpad.

100% foreign ownership (no sponsor needed)
100% repatriation of profits and capital
Complete exemption from import/export duties
Simplified customs clearance procedures

2. Choosing the Right Free Zone

With over 40 distinct Free Zones across the UAE, selecting the right jurisdiction is crucial for operational and logistical efficiency. Each Free Zone specializes in specific business sectors—such as finance, media, technology, or logistics—and offers tailored warehouse, office, or desk space solutions.

Sector-focused zones (media, tech, finance)
Flexible co-working and desk packages
Proximity to key transport hubs
Commercial, service, and industrial licenses

3. The Registration & Licensing Process

Setting up a Free Zone entity involves selecting a trade name, defining business activities, and submitting application forms to the respective Free Zone Authority. Our document clearance specialists guide you through drafting share boards, corporate resolutions, and compiling passport copies to guarantee first-time approval.

Trade name reservation and vetting
Shareholder registry setup
Authority application form typing
Licensing certificate issuance

4. Residency Visas & Corporate Bank Accounts

Once your Free Zone license is issued, you are eligible to apply for investor and employee residence visas. Furthermore, having a valid Free Zone trade license and physical or virtual office lease enables you to establish corporate banking relations in the UAE.

Establishment card and entry permits
Medical and Emirates ID typing
Corporate bank account opening support
Annual portal renewal and compliance

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a UAE Free Zone?

A Free Zone is a designated, tax-free geographical area within the UAE where businesses can operate with 100% foreign ownership, exemption from import/export tariffs, and simplified administrative regulations.

What are the main benefits of a Free Zone setup?

The main benefits include 100% foreign ownership, 0% personal income tax, 100% repatriation of profits, exemption from all customs duties, and single-window administrative support for visas and government clearance.

Can a Free Zone company trade on the UAE mainland?

No, a Free Zone company is generally restricted to operating within its respective free zone or internationally. To sell goods or services directly on the UAE mainland, a Free Zone company must work through a mainland distributor, open a mainland branch, or obtain a special permit.

Do I need a physical office space to register in a Free Zone?

No. Many UAE Free Zones offer "Flexi-Desk" or "Virtual Office" packages. These packages satisfy the legal requirement for a registered business address without needing physical office rooms, which is ideal for startups and freelancers.

Which is the cheapest Free Zone in the UAE?

Northern emirate Free Zones (such as Meydan, IFZA, SPC Free Zone, or RAKEZ) generally offer the most affordable setup costs, flexi-desk packages, and competitive visa allocation pricing in the UAE.

How many residency visas can I get with a Free Zone license?

The number of visas depends on the office package selected. A virtual office or flexi-desk typically grants 1 to 3 visas. If you require more visas, you must rent physical office space, with the quota calculated based on the square footage.

What is the difference between Mainland and Free Zone setup?

Mainland companies can trade anywhere inside the UAE local market without restrictions but require physical office address verification. Free Zone companies are limited to their zone and international markets but benefit from absolute duty exemptions and lower setup costs.

Are Free Zone companies subject to corporate tax?

Free Zone companies are subject to 0% corporate tax on transactions with entities outside the UAE or with other free zone businesses (referred to as "qualifying income"). Transactions with the UAE mainland are subject to the standard 9% corporate tax rate.

Can a Free Zone company own property in Dubai?

Yes. A Free Zone company can own commercial or residential property in designated freehold areas in Dubai, subject to approvals from the Dubai Land Department and the respective Free Zone Authority.

How long does the Free Zone setup take?

Free Zone company registration is relatively quick, usually taking between 2 to 5 working days for the company license to be issued, followed by another 5 to 7 working days to activate the establishment card and process residency visas.