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FREEZONE COMPANY SETUP IN DUBAI
MAXIMUM BENEFITS FOR ENTREPRENEURS

The Free Zones in Dubai are one of the most attractive options for foreign entrepreneurs looking to do business in the United Arab Emirates. With tax benefits, 100% foreign ownership, and simplified setup processes, Free Zones attract investors from around the world. With more than 40 Free Zones across the UAE, there is an option for nearly every industry.

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Dubai is a dynamic, business-friendly city with a strategically advantageous location between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Companies located in a Free Zone not only benefit from tax advantages but also from a stable economy and a modern, well-regulated business environment. This means entrepreneurs can efficiently manage their global operations while working in a secure and future-oriented environment.

Why Choose a Free Zone in Dubai?

Dubai is the economic hub of the Middle East, offering excellent conditions for entrepreneurs. The benefits of setting up a business in a Free Zone in Dubai are numerous:

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  • 100% Foreign Ownership – No local sponsor required.

  • Tax Benefits – No income tax, no capital gains tax, and often 0% corporate tax (depending on the Free Zone).

  • Easy Company Setup – Quick registration, often within a few days.

  • Free Repatriation of Profits – No restrictions on capital transfers.

  • Modern Infrastructure – State-of-the-art office and industrial facilities.

  • Customs and Import Benefits – Reduced or no customs duties on imports and exports.

  • No Physical Location Requirement – In many Free Zones in Dubai, virtual business operations are possible.

  • Simplified Visa Issuance – Entrepreneurs can easily settle themselves and their employees.

  • Access to International Networks – Dubai is a global business hub with direct connections to markets worldwide.

  • Regulatory Support – Free Zones often provide regulatory relief and simplified administrative processes for businesses.
     

These advantages make Free Zones one of the best options for investors looking to settle in Dubai and benefit from a business-friendly environment.

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Types of Licenses in Free Zones

In the Free Zones in Dubai, there are various business licenses that can be selected based on the industry:

Trading License

  • Import and export of goods

  • Wholesale, retail, and distribution

  • International trading activities

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A trading license in the Freezone allows the import, export, and distribution of goods within the UAE and internationally. It is ideal for companies in wholesale and retail that wish to benefit from tax advantages, simplified customs processes, and 100% foreign ownership.

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Service License

  • IT services, consulting, marketing, coaching

  • Business, financial, and HR consultancy

  • Creative services such as graphic design, content creation, and advertising

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With a Service License in the Freezone, companies can offer a wide range of services – from consulting and marketing to IT, education, or administration. This license is ideal for service-oriented business models without physical goods trading, providing full ownership, low operating costs, and quick setup.

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Industrial License

  • Production, Manufacturing, and Storage

  • Ideal for companies with their own production facilities

  • Access to special industrial and manufacturing zones

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Depending on the chosen license, different permits may be required. Our experts handle a smooth process and ensure that your company meets all regulatory requirements.

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E-Commerce License

  • Online trading of products and services

  • Dropshipping and digital platforms

  • Marketplaces for digital goods
     

Depending on the selected license, different approvals may be required. Our experts will ensure a smooth process and make sure your business meets all regulatory requirements.

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Other Licenses

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Media License

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Freelance Permit

Depending on the chosen license, different approvals may be required. Our experts will handle the process smoothly and ensure that your business meets all regulatory requirements.

Costs of Setting Up a Freezone Company in Dubai

The costs of setting up a company in a Freezone depend on several factors:

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  • Choice of Freezone (Premium Freezones often have higher fees)

  • License Type (Trading licenses are often more expensive than service licenses)

  • Visa Requirements (Each additional visa may incur costs)

  • Office Requirements (Virtual offices are often cheaper than physical office spaces)

  • Additional Approvals (Some industries require special licenses or certifications)
     

We will provide you with a personalized offer tailored to your specific needs.

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The Process of Company Formation in a Freezone

Setting up a company in a Freezone is straightforward and takes just a few steps:

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01

Choosing the Right Freezone

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02

Determining the Business Activity

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03

Company Registration

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04

License and Visa Application

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05

Setting up the Business Location (if required)

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06

Opening a Business Bank Account

Now Take Off with Adler & Partners

Want to establish your business in a Freezone in Dubai? We guide you from A to Z – from choosing the right Freezone to successful licensing and visa applications. Our experienced team ensures a smooth process and provides you with personalized advice at the highest level.

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Frequently Asked Questions

    • 100% foreign ownership, meaning you have full control over your business.

    • Free zone companies enjoy income tax exemptions as well as import and export duties exemptions.

    • You can transfer all profits and capital to your home country without restrictions.

    • Transactions in multiple currencies are allowed, ideal for international trade.

    • Free zones offer modern infrastructure and excellent connectivity.

    • Flexible office spaces, co-working spaces, and storage areas for various company sizes.

    • Networking and collaboration opportunities due to the location within a free zone.

    • Specialized free zones for specific industries like technology, media, health, or finance.

  • The UAE has over 45 different free zones. Some of the most popular among our clients include IFZA, RAKEZ, SHAMS, and SRTIP.

  • New companies with individual shareholders, subsidiaries (with legal shareholders), joint ventures (a mix of individual and company ownership), as well as branches of local or foreign companies.

  • Basic requirements for establishing a company in a Free Zone:

    • Determine the legal structure

    • Choose a company name

    • Apply for a business license

    • Select an office location

    • Obtain preliminary approvals

    • Register the company and obtain the license

  • Free Zones typically allow 100% foreign ownership. However, there may be restrictions if you want to conduct business outside the Free Zone or on the Mainland. Certain industries, such as banking, insurance, or services, have industry-specific ownership and regulatory requirements.

  • Yes, this is generally allowed, but there are specific requirements. Possible options include:

    • Applying for an external business license

    • Appointing a local representative or distributor

  • Depending on the Free Zone, the establishment process takes 3–21 days. In SAIF Zone or Umm-Al-Quwain FTZ, the establishment can be completed in just 3 days, while in IFZA, Meydan, or Dubai South Free Zones, it typically takes at least 7–10 days.

  • Yes, this is possible – requirements may vary depending on the bank, business model, and bank policies. Typically, you will need:

    • Completed bank account application form

    • Founding documents

    • Business and trade license

    • Articles of Association

    • Proof of address for the company and shareholders/directors

    • Passport copies and visas of the shareholders/directors

    • Business plan and financial reports

    • Recommendation letter from a sponsor or reference person

  • Each Free Zone has its own compliance regulations. All parties must adhere to:

    • Applicable UAE laws and regulations of the respective emirate

    • Regulations and rulings of the competent authorities

    • Regulations of the respective Free Zone Authority

    • Conditions of the granted business license

  • Yes. The company can apply for a visa quota and subsequently sponsor residence permits for each new employee.

  • The cost of establishing and operating a company in a Free Zone depends on the chosen zone. Typically, it starts at around AED 14,000 for the business license and investor visa.

  • The law for Free Zone companies generally prohibits renting space outside the Free Zone. However, some Free Zones may issue an NOC (No Objection Certificate) allowing registered companies to lease spaces outside the zone.

  • Yes, but under certain conditions. If your company is registered in one emirate and you wish to acquire property in another emirate, you will need an NOC from the Free Zone.

  • No. To trade with Mainland companies, a Free Zone company must operate through a registered agent and pay the appropriate fees.

  • No. However, any Free Zone company can open a branch on the Mainland of the UAE.

  • Each Free Zone company has its own rules for dissolution. Typically, the costs of closure are comparable to the investment costs at company formation.

  • In most UAE Free Zones, there are no restrictions on profit repatriation. Companies can transfer 100% of their profits to their home country or elsewhere – without mandatory reinvestment requirements. This flexibility is one of the greatest advantages of operating in a Free Zone.

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