Business Setup in Dubai Free Zones

Dubai offers over 30 Free Zones, each catering to specific industries such as technology, media, healthcare, logistics, and finance. Setting up a company in a Free Zone is one of the most popular options for foreign investors due to streamlined procedures, tax advantages, and full ownership rights.

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Business Setup In Dubai Free Zones

Brightlink Business Setup specializes in delivering tailored business formation solutions across the UAE, serving both individual entrepreneurs and corporate clients. With a team of experienced and dedicated professionals, we provide end-to-end support for setting up new companies, branches, or subsidiaries throughout the Emirates.
Whether you’re establishing a Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore entity, our experts guide you through each step—ensuring a seamless, compliant, and efficient business setup experience.

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Launch Smarter: Set Up Your Business in a Dubai Free Zone

Dubai’s Free Zones are more than just business hubs — they’re launchpads for ambitious entrepreneurs and global brands alike. With full foreign ownership, no personal or corporate tax, and industry-specific support, Free Zones offer a streamlined, low-risk path to entering the UAE market.

From startups and solo entrepreneurs to global enterprises, Dubai Free Zones provide a cost-effective gateway to local and international markets. With support for e-commerce, tech, media, finance, and more, your business is set to grow in an environment that prioritizes innovation, speed, and sustainability.

With Brightlink, launching your Free Zone business is fast, affordable, and stress-free.
Let us handle the details — so you can focus on your success.

Benefits of Establishing Your Company in Dubai Free Zones:

100% foreign ownership
Zero import and export tax
Repatriation of profits
Simplified visa and work permit process
Affordable cost for high quality labor
Favorable business environment
World-class infrastructure

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Types of Legal Entities for Free Zone Companies

Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)

Most popular entity type in free zones.
Suitable for small to medium-sized businesses.
Liability limited to the shareholder’s capital contribution.
Requires minimum one shareholder and one director.

Branch of a Foreign/UAE Company

An extension of an existing company registered outside the free zone or UAE mainland.
Can conduct the same business activities as the parent company.
Not a separate legal entity but linked to the parent company.

Freelance License / Individual Establishment

Ideal for freelancers, consultants, and sole proprietors.
Allows one individual to operate legally in their professional field.
Typically does not require office space.

Free Zone Establishment (FZE)

Single shareholder company.
Limited liability similar to LLC but owned by one individual or corporate entity.
Suitable for individual entrepreneurs or single-owner businesses.

Free Zone Company (FZCO)

Multiple shareholders (usually 2-5).
Liability limited to shares in the company.
Ideal for joint ventures or partnerships within the free zone.

Civil Company (Professional License)

For professional service providers such as consultants, doctors, engineers.
Usually requires a local service agent but allows 100% ownership in some free zones.
Limited to professional and consultancy activities.

Advantages of Each Free Zone in Dubai

Key benefits of Dubai’s Free Zones, organized by their unique strengths, to help you identify which zone best aligns with your specific business objectives.

DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre)

World’s #1 free zone for several years running.
Ideal for commodities, trading, crypto, and general business.
Located in JLT with high-end office facilities.
Excellent reputation and global credibility.

DAFZA (Dubai Airport Free Zone)

Strategic location near Dubai International Airport.
Excellent for logistics, aviation, and export businesses.
High-end infrastructure with premium services.

Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)

Best for tech startups and IT-related businesses.
Offers residential and commercial space together.
Government-owned with innovation-friendly policies.

DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre)

Premier hub for financial institutions and fintech.
Independent legal and regulatory system (common law).
Ideal for private equity, banking, wealth management.

Dubai Internet City (DIC)

Specialized in IT, internet, and software businesses.
Hosts major global tech firms (Google, Facebook).
Excellent for networking in the tech ecosystem.

Dubai Media City

Perfect for media, publishing, PR, and content creation.
Houses regional HQs of global media companies.
Strong ecosystem for creative industries.

Dubai Design District (D3)

Tailored for design, fashion, and luxury brands.
Hosts fashion events and exhibitions.
High-visibility location with modern offices.

Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC)

Best for healthcare, wellness, and medical services.
Home to hospitals, clinics, and medical universities.
Regulated by a dedicated healthcare authority.

Dubai Knowledge Park

Focused on education, e-learning, and HR businesses.
Ideal for training institutes and academic services.
Simple registration process for educational firms.

Dubai South (DWC)

Near Al Maktoum Airport and Expo 2020 site.
Good for logistics, aviation, and trade businesses.
Offers warehouse, industrial, and office space.

IFZA (International Free Zone Authority)

One of the most affordable free zones in Dubai.
Wide range of licenses including commercial and consultancy.
Easy setup, remote registration possible.

Meydan Free Zone

Virtual office-friendly; allows remote operations.
Quick setup for entrepreneurs and consultants.
Located near Downtown Dubai and Business Bay.

Dubai Outsource City

Focused on BPO, call centers, IT support firms.
Great infrastructure for outsourcing companies.
Strong links to local and global markets.

Dubai Studio City

Tailored for film, TV, and broadcasting companies.
Sound stages, production suites, and media facilities.
Hub for production houses and creatives.

Dubai Production City

Targeted at printing, publishing, and packaging firms.
Integrated logistics and production support.
Affordable commercial space for media firms.

Dubai Maritime City

Focused on marine industries and services.
Suitable for shipbuilding, repairs, marine equipment.
Located near Port Rashid and dry docks.

JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone)

One of the oldest and largest UAE free zones.
Ideal for large industrial and trading businesses.
Direct access to Jebel Ali Port — key for exports/imports.

Gold and Diamond Park

Specialized zone for jewelry, precious metals, and gems.
Secure, regulated environment for trade and retail.
Close to Sheikh Zayed Road.

DWTC Free Zone

High-profile, flexible space for exhibitions and events.
Convenient location in central Dubai.
Ideal for international firms seeking short-term licenses.

Services Offered by Brightlink Management Consultancy

We align our solutions with your business vision — whether you’re entering the market for the first time or expanding your footprint — ensuring a seamless experience from setup to scale.

Business Setup & Company Formation
PRO & Government Services
Assistance with Opening UAE Corporate Bank Accounts
Website Development & Digital Marketing

Virtual Office & Flexi-Desk Solutions
Accounting & Bookkeeping Services
Legal Translation & Notarization Services
Compliance & Regulatory Advisory

Business License Options in UAE Free Zones

Commercial License

For companies involved in trading activities, including import/export, general trading, and buying/selling goods.

Service License

Issued to businesses offering professional services such as consulting, marketing, IT services, education, and maintenance.

E-commerce License

For businesses operating online stores or digital services, including online trading, marketing, and consultancy.

Freelance License

Designed for individual entrepreneurs and freelancers providing professional services, such as writers, designers, consultants, and IT professionals.

Media License

Tailored for media, advertising, and creative industry businesses involved in film, TV, radio, publishing, and digital content creation.

Industrial License

For companies involved in manufacturing, processing, assembling, or packaging of goods within the free zone.

Educational License

For institutes and organizations providing educational and training services.

Why Choose Brightlink?

All-in-One Business Setup

Local Expertise, Global Standards

Transparent & Affordable Packages

Fast & Hassle-Free Processing

Tailored Business Solutions

Reliable Ongoing Support

How To Set Up A Business in Dubai Free Zone

Starting your business in a Dubai Free Zone opens the door to vast opportunities — and Brightlink is here to ensure your journey is effortless and efficient.

+971 566 556645 Book Consultation

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Set Up a Business in a Dubai Free Zone

Setting up a company in a Dubai Free Zone is a popular choice for foreign investors and entrepreneurs due to benefits like 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax, and simplified business procedures. Here’s a detailed roadmap to guide you through the process:

1. Identify the Suitable Free Zone

Research Free Zones based on your business activity, industry, and location preferences.
Dubai has over 30 Free Zones, each catering to specific sectors (e.g., DMCC for commodities, Dubai Internet City for tech, Dubai Media City for media-related businesses).
Consider facilities offered, office space options, visa quotas, and licensing fees.

2. Determine Your Business Activity

Select the precise business activity you intend to conduct (e.g., trading, consultancy, manufacturing, IT services).
Ensure the Free Zone you choose permits your business activity, as some zones are specialized and restrict certain activities.
This will affect the type of license you apply for (commercial, service, industrial, or freelance).

3. Choose the Legal Structure

Common Free Zone company types include:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): Single shareholder
- Free Zone Company (FZCO): Multiple shareholders (up to 50)
- Branch of a Foreign Company: If you want to open a branch of your existing company
Decide based on ownership preferences, capital requirements, and liability considerations.

4. Reserve a Trade Name

Pick a unique trade name that complies with UAE’s naming regulations (no offensive or religious words, must reflect business activity).
Submit the name for approval through the Free Zone authority’s portal.
Once approved, the name is reserved for a specific period (usually 3 months).

5. Prepare and Submit the Documentation

Standard documents include:
- Passport copies of shareholders, directors, and managers
- Passport-sized photographs
- Proof of residence (utility bill or tenancy contract)
- Completed application form provided by the Free Zone authority
- Business plan (required for certain Free Zones or activities)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)
Documents must be attested and sometimes notarized, depending on the Free Zone.

6. Select and Lease Office Space

Free Zones offer various office options:
- Flexi Desk: Shared workspace, cost-effective for startups and freelancers
- Serviced Office: Fully furnished private office with support services
- Warehouse/Industrial Unit: For manufacturing or storage needs
You must have a physical address in the Free Zone to get your license.
Sign a lease agreement and obtain Ejari (tenancy contract registration) where applicable.

7. Submit the Company Registration Application and Pay Fees

Submit the finalized application form along with all documents and lease agreement to the Free Zone authority.
Pay the applicable registration, license, and office rental fees.
Fees vary depending on the Free Zone, office type, and business activity but typically start from AED 10,000 and up.

8. Receive the Business License

Upon approval, the Free Zone authority issues your business license (usually within 1-3 weeks).
The license legally permits you to operate your business within the Free Zone jurisdiction.
Licenses are renewable annually and must be kept valid to avoid penalties.

9. Open a Corporate Bank Account

Choose a bank in the UAE (local or international) to open your company’s corporate account.
Banks require your trade license, company documents, shareholder passports, and board resolutions (for branches or multiple shareholders).
Some banks may request a minimum balance or business plan.
Brightlink can assist you with bank introductions and document preparation.

10. Apply for Visas and Immigration Procedures

Based on your company size and office space, apply for investor and employee visas.
Free Zones allocate a certain number of visas per office size (e.g., flexi desk vs. full office).
Visa process includes medical fitness tests, Emirates ID registration, and residency permits.
Brightlink manages the entire PRO (Public Relations Officer) services to make this hassle-free.

11. Ongoing Compliance & Renewals

Keep track of license renewal deadlines (usually annually).
Submit financial statements and audit reports if required (some Free Zones mandate annual auditing).
Comply with VAT registration and filing if your turnover exceeds the mandatory threshold.
Stay updated with any regulatory changes in the Free Zone or UAE laws.

Why Choose Brightlink Management Consultancy?

Navigating Free Zone setup can be complex, but with Brightlink Management Consultancy by your side, the process becomes straightforward and transparent. We offer:

Personalized consultation to select the best Free Zone for your goals
Handling all documentation and approvals quickly and accurately
Assistance with office leasing and local sponsorship (if needed)
PRO services including visa and immigration processing
Banking support and compliance advisory

Start your Dubai Free Zone business setup with Brightlink Management Consultancy — the trusted partner for seamless, efficient company formation.

Start Your Business in Free Zone with Brightlink

Connect with Brightlink Management Consultancy today for expert, end-to-end support. Let’s turn your business vision into a reality — smoothly, efficiently, and successfully.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A free zone in the UAE is a designated area where foreign companies can set up businesses with 100% ownership and enjoy tax benefits and other incentives.

Free zones offer advantages such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, repatriation of profits, and simplified business setup procedures, making them attractive for international businesses.

UAE free zones accommodate various sectors including trading, manufacturing, services, technology, media, healthcare, education, logistics, and more.

The typical steps involve choosing a free zone, selecting a business activity, applying for a license, leasing office space (if required), obtaining necessary approvals, and completing registration with relevant authorities.

No, free zones allow 100% foreign ownership, eliminating the need for a local sponsor or partner.

Each free zone has its own regulations and requirements, so it’s essential to research and understand the rules related to your chosen free zone and business activity.

Costs vary depending on the chosen free zone, business activity, office space requirements, and other factors. Common expenses include license fees, visa costs, and office rent.

Generally, businesses registered in a free zone are restricted to operating within that specific free zone or interacting with entities outside the UAE through local distributors or agents.

The timeframe can vary depending on the chosen free zone and the completeness of your documentation. On average, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to complete the setup process.

Free zones often provide support services such as business centers, networking opportunities, legal and administrative assistance, banking facilities, and access to skilled professionals.