Establish your business in a Dubai Free Zone to secure 100% foreign ownership, 0% corporate tax, and 100% repatriation of all capital and profits. As the world’s premier commercial hub, Dubai offers a strategic gateway to global markets, with specialized ecosystems tailored to every industry.

As your trusted business setup consultants, we navigate the entire process for you. We can guide you to the perfect ecosystem for your needs, whether it’s the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), a world-leading hub for trade, or a logistics-focused powerhouse like Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) or the Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZA).

Let the experts at Riz & Mona Consultancy manage all the key steps, from selecting the ideal zone to handling all documentation for a seamless and successful setup.

Steps to Establish Business Setup in Dubai Free Zone

Choose Your Business Activity

Start by selecting the specific type of business activity you’ll be conducting, as this determines the type of license required. Free Zones offer tailored licenses for activities such as trading, consulting, and manufacturing.

Select the Right Free Zone

Choose a Free Zone that aligns with your industry and logistical needs. For example, Dubai Media City is ideal for media companies, while Dubai Healthcare City serves health-related businesses. Some Free Zones also offer flexible visa options and specialized facilities.

Determine Your Legal Structure

Decide on the legal entity structure typically a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) for single shareholders or a Free Zone Company (FZC) for multiple shareholders. Branch options are also available for existing businesses.

Register Your Trade Name

Choose a trade name that adheres to UAE naming conventions (e.g., no offensive or religious terms). Submit three name options to the Free Zone Authority for approval.

Submit Required Documents

Commonly required documents include:

- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Completed application form
- Business plan (if required by the Free Zone)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association for certain structures

Choose an Office Space

Options range from flexi-desks (shared workspaces) to dedicated offices or warehouses, depending on your business’s size and visa needs. Some Free Zones, like DMCC, offer flexible packages to fit various business sizes.

Pay Fees and Obtain Licenses

Pay the one-time registration fee and the annual license fee, which may cover office rent and other services. Costs vary by Free Zone, with some zones offering cost-effective packages for startups and small businesses.

Obtain Visas and Open a Bank Account

Apply for visas for yourself and employees through your Free Zone’s portal. Open a corporate bank account to manage business finances; this requires your trade license and other incorporation documents.

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Top Benefits of Starting a Business in a Dubai Free Zone

100% Foreign Ownership

Full Profit Repatriation

No Income Tax

Global Connectivity

Sector-Specific Ecosystems

Customs and Trade Advantages

Types of Licenses Available in Dubai Free Zones

Commercial/Trading License

Best for businesses involved in the sale and trade of goods.

- Covers import, export, and distribution activities, including local and global markets
- Many free zones allow up to 10 product categories on a single license, adding flexibility for diverse trading companies
- Suitable for B2B and B2C trading, supporting extensive supply chain operations

Service/Professional License

Ideal for service-focused businesses that don’t handle physical goods.

- Allows consultancies, IT firms, marketing agencies, and similar professional services
- Includes financial, legal, and advisory services for companies targeting corporate clients
- Certain Free Zones permit multiple service categories under one license, making it ideal for multifaceted service businesses

Industrial License

Required for companies involved in manufacturing or production.

- Covers manufacturing, processing, assembly, and packaging activities
- Requires specific facilities, such as industrial units and warehouses with environmental and safety compliance
- Often mandates additional regulatory approvals, especially for heavy industries or hazardous materials

Freelance Permit

A cost-effective option for individual professionals.

- Available in select Free Zones like Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City, ideal for media, design, and IT professionals
- Allows individuals to operate as sole practitioners without a full business setup
- Simplifies visa processes and eliminates the need for office space, making it budget-friendly for freelancers

E-commerce License

Tailored for businesses focusing on digital and online sales.

- Supports activities such as digital retail, online marketplaces, and e-commerce platforms
- Enables businesses to operate and manage digital storefronts and conduct cross-border sales
- Capitalizes on Dubai’s fast-growing digital economy, with dedicated facilities in Free Zones like Dubai CommerCity

Required Documents to Register Free Zone Business in Dubai

Completed Application Form: Official form provided by the chosen free zone authority, detailing company information and intended business activities.
Business Plan: A comprehensive outline of the company’s objectives, operational strategies, and financial projections.
Passport Copies: Clear copies of the passports of all shareholders and directors, ensuring validity for at least six months.
Proof of Residence: Recent utility bills or tenancy contracts as evidence of the residential addresses of shareholders and directors.
No Objection Certificate (NOC): For UAE residents, a NOC from the current sponsor or employer, permitting the individual to establish a new company.
Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA): Legal documents outlining the company’s structure, purpose, and operational guidelines.
Board Resolution: A formal resolution from the parent company (if applicable) authorizing the establishment of a branch or subsidiary in the free zone.
Bank Reference Letter: A letter from the shareholder’s personal or corporate bank, attesting to their financial standing and relationship duration.
Specimen Signatures: Authorized signatures of the company’s shareholders and directors, often required for official records.
Third-Party Approvals: Additional approvals may be necessary for specific business activities, such as media, IT, or pharmaceutical sectors.

Business Setup Consultants in Dubai Free Zone

How Riz & Mona Consultancy Can Help?

Riz & Mona Consultancy is renowned as one of the top business setup consultants in Dubai, with over 15 years of experience facilitating a wide range of businesses throughout the UAE. Our deep connections with government officials and key authorities, combined with our extensive expertise in consultancy, streamline the process of establishing your business in Dubai. Additionally, we offer comprehensive financial, legal, and corporate services to support our clients throughout their business endeavors.

We are here to provide comprehensive support for your Business Setup in Dubai Free Zone, from preparing your documents to completing the process. Connect with us now to begin your journey with a FREE consultation!

FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the cheapest Free Zone in Dubai for setting up a business?

Meydan Free Zone is among the most affordable options within Dubai. For the entire UAE, UAQ FTZ and RAKEZ Free Zones are known for offering cost-effective packages for businesses with limited visa requirements.

Can Free Zone companies operate in the Dubai mainland?

Free Zone companies cannot directly conduct business in the mainland but may do so through a local distributor or by establishing a mainland branch.

How long does it take to set up a Free Zone company in Dubai?

The company formation process usually takes 1–4 weeks, depending on the Free Zone’s requirements and the completion of necessary documentation.

Are annual audits mandatory for Free Zone companies?

Some Free Zones require annual audits for license renewal, while others, such as IFZA, do not.

Can Free Zone companies hire expatriates?

Yes, Free Zone companies can hire expatriates without restrictions, subject to the visa quota linked to office size and business requirements.

Do I need a trade license to sell online in Dubai?

Yes, all online commercial activities require a trade license to ensure compliance with UAE regulations.

Is physical office space mandatory in all Dubai Free Zones?

No, some Free Zones offer virtual office options or flexi-desk packages, making it possible to operate without renting a dedicated physical space.

What happens if a Free Zone company wants to expand to the mainland?

A Free Zone company can establish a branch on the mainland or partner with a local distributor to expand its presence. Alternatively, it can convert to a mainland company with a new trade license.

Are there any restrictions on business activities in Dubai Free Zones?

Yes, Free Zones may limit the types of activities based on industry focus, such as IT, logistics, media, or manufacturing. It’s essential to verify that the chosen Free Zone allows the intended business activities.