Free ZoneOverview
Free Zone Company Formation
A free zone company is licensed by the authority that runs a specific economic zone. Each zone has its own rules, fees, office options and target industries, so the right zone depends on your activity, your visa needs and where your customers are.
Free zone companies can trade internationally and with other businesses in the zone. Trading directly with UAE mainland customers usually needs a distributor or an additional mainland permit, which we can arrange.
- Ownership
- 100% foreign for most activities
- Trade inside UAE
- Within the zone, or via distributor
- Residence visas
- Yes, based on office space
- Office
- Flexi-desk to private office
Key benefits
- 100% foreign ownership
- Full repatriation of capital and profits
- Exemption from customs duties within the zone
- Possible 0% corporate tax on qualifying income
- Flexi-desk packages with no physical office
- Fast incorporation, often completed remotely
Dubai free zones
Abu Dhabi free zones
Sharjah free zones
Ajman free zones
Fujairah free zones
How setup works
- Compare suitable zones and choose a package
- Submit the application with shareholder KYC
- Trade name and initial approval
- Sign the lease for a flexi-desk or office
- Licence and certificate of incorporation issued
- Establishment card, visas and corporate bank account
Documents you will need
- Passport copies of all shareholders and the manager
- Passport-size photographs
- UAE visa page or entry stamp, or Emirates ID for residents
- Proof of residential address
- Brief business plan (required by some zones)
- For corporate shareholders: attested certificate of incorporation, MOA and board resolution
Use the cost calculator for an indicative figure, then ask us for a confirmed, itemised quote.
Frequently asked questions
Which free zone is best?
There is no single best zone. The right one depends on your activity, how many visas you need, whether you want a physical office and your budget. We compare suitable zones side by side for you.
Can a free zone company sell in the UAE?
It can trade freely inside its zone and internationally. Selling to the UAE mainland usually goes through a local distributor, a mainland branch or a permit, depending on the zone.
Can I set up remotely?
Many free zones allow incorporation without visiting the UAE. You will need to come in person later for visa medicals and biometrics.