Free Zone Business Setup In UAE

UAE-free zones are specialized economic areas that offer foreign businesses attractive incentives and benefits to set up operations. These zones are designed to facilitate international trade and investment by providing advantages such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, full repatriation of profits, simplified company registration processes, modern infrastructure, and business-friendly regulations. With over 40 free zones across the UAE, each catering to specific industries and business needs, they play a crucial role in the country’s economy as hubs for innovation, entrepreneurship, and global connectivity.

Free Zone Business Setup In UAE

Welcome to Brightlink Business Setup, your gateway to company incorporation in over 80 UAE-free zones! With so many options to choose from, we understand the excitement and challenges you might be facing. But fear not! Our expert team is here to guide you through this thrilling journey, ensuring you find the perfect free zone that aligns with your business needs. We’ve got you covered, from location and pricing to flexible desk options and share capital requirements. Let us take the wheel, save you money, and make the whole process a breeze. Say goodbye to stress and hello to success with Brightlink Business Setup!

START YOUR BUSINESS IN FREEZONE TODAY!

Benefits Of Establishing A Business In A Free Zone

  • Full ownership for foreign investors:  no local partner is required 
  • Financial incentives: 0% income tax, no customs duties, 100% profit repatriation 
  • Simplified business license process through a free consultation 
  • The sector-specific focus on access to industry expertise 
Contact Our Team Today

List Of Top Free Zones In UAE

Here is a list of some of the top free zones in the UAE, known for their strategic locations, sector-specific focuses, and attractive incentives:

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)

Dubai Multi Commodity Centre (DMCC)

Fujairah Creative City Free Zone

Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone)

JAFZA

IFZA Dubai

Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)

RAKEZ

Dubai World Trade Centre

Meydan Free Zone

Dubai South 

Dubai Silicon Oasis

UAQ Free Trade Zone

Dubai World Trade Centre

Ajman Free Zone

KIZAD Free Zone

Important Considerations For Setting Up A Freezone Company In The UAE

Consider the following key points to remember when establishing a Freezone Company in the UAE: 

  1. No Need for Physical Presence: In certain free zones, physical presence during company formation is not mandatory; it is only required during the visa processing stage.
  2. Limited Direct Interaction with Government Agencies: Freezone companies may need to have ease of direct dealings with Government agencies.
  3. Exemption from Value-Added Tax (VAT): Businesses operating outside the UAE are exempt from Value Added Tax.
  4. Corporate Tax Exemption: Freezone companies have to file tax even if they are below the threshold.
  5. Versatile Business Types: Freezone companies have the flexibility to engage in B2B activities anywhere in the UAE and B2C operations within the free zone and internationally.

Entity Options For Free Zone Company Formation In The UAE

Establishing a business in the UAE’s free zones is a seamless and straightforward process, thanks to the government’s efforts to attract foreign investors with minimal capital requirements. When setting up a company in the UAE free trade zones, entrepreneurs have the choice of three primary entity types:

Branch of a foreign or local company 

Free Zone Establishment (FZE) with a single shareholder 

Free Zone Company (FZC) with 2 to 5 shareholders 

Required Documents For Setting Up A Business In The UAE

General Documents: 

  1. Passport copies of the partners and business managers
  2. Passport size photograph
  3. Trade names

Documents for Branch of Companies: 

  1. Attested copy of the registration certificate, incorporation certificate, and the Memorandum and Articles of Association (MAA)
  2. Original Board Resolution that guarantees the financial commitment of the branch
  3. passport copy of the shareholder
  4. Passport size photograph

Variety Of Business Licenses Offered In The UAE Free Zones

Obtaining a business license is an essential step in the process of setting up a business in the UAE free zones. Applicants have the option to obtain various types of licenses based on their specific business activities: 

General Trading License

Allows investors to engage in the trading of various products

Service License

Enables operation for law, accounting, and business consultancy firms.

Trading/Commercial License

Grants a time-limited authorisation to conduct industrial, commercial, or consulting activities.

Manufacturing License

Allows applicants to establish and operate manufacturing facilities for the production of goods

Industrial License

Permits the importation of raw materials, manufacturing of goods, and exportation of finished products across international borders

Steps To Set Up A Business In The UAE Free Zones

Learn the steps to establish your business in UAE free zones effortlessly.

Step : 1

Trade License Issuance

Decide on the type of entity you want to establish in the free zone, considering the capital requirement for that particular zone.

Step : 2

Select A Trade Name

Pick your company’s unique and permissible trade name, ensuring it is not already registered.

Step : 3

Apply For A Business License

Submit the required documents and apply for the appropriate business license based on your company’s primary activity.

Step : 4

Secure Office Space

Determine the suitable office space, either through purchasing or leasing, depending on your business’s needs. 

Step : 5

Obtain Approvals And Register

Get initial approval, business approvals, and register your company on the free zone authority’s portal. 

Step : 6

Obtain The License

Once the process is completed, you will receive your business license to start your operations within 2-4 weeks.

Business Setup In UAE Through Brightlink

Discover everything you need to know about setting up a business in the UAE.

Book a Free Consultation

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.

Ready to Setup Your Business in Dubai? Partner with Brightlink Consulting Today!