Free Zone Company Setup in the UAE
What Is a Free Zone Company?
A free zone company is a business registered with a specific UAE free zone authority. Each free zone has its own rules, permitted activities, licensing options, facilities and fee structure.
Free zones can be attractive to entrepreneurs, startups, consultants, trading businesses and international companies seeking a UAE presence. The right option depends on the proposed business activity, customer base, office needs and visa requirements.
A free zone licence does not automatically permit every type of business activity throughout the UAE mainland. Certain mainland activities and transactions may require additional permissions or arrangements under the applicable rules.
Types of Freezone License
Service and Consultancy License
For eligible consulting, professional, IT, marketing and other service-based activities.
Commercial or Trading License
For approved trading activities, including buying and selling specified goods, subject to the license scope.
E-commerce License
For eligible online business activities, subject to the relevant authority’s requirements.
Company Ownership
Many UAE free zones allow foreign entrepreneurs to own 100% of their company. The permitted legal structures, shareholder limits and documentation requirements vary by authority.
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Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
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Free Zone Company (FZC or FZ-LLC)
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Branch of an existing UAE or foreign company
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Other structures offered by the relevant authority
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Explore UAE Freezone Options
Meydan Free Zone
Explore company formation options in Dubai, including eligible business activities and licensing packages
Ajman Free Zone
Review available business setup options and permitted activities in Ajman.
SHAMS
Learn about eligible business setup options for media, creative and other permitted activities.
RAKEZ
Explore available options for eligible commercial, service, industrial and other business activities
IFZA
Explore available options for eligible consultancy, professional, commercial, trading and other business activities, subject to IFZA approval
Six Reasons For People Choosing Us
Foreign Ownership
Many free zones allow 100% foreign ownership, subject to the relevant authority’s rules and activity requirements.
Multiple License Options
Explore permitted consultancy, service, trading, e-commerce and other business activities, depending on the free zone.
Flexible Setup Packages
Some free zones offer different packages based on license type, facilities and visa requirements
Office and Facility Choices
Depending on the authority, options may include flexi-desks, shared workspaces, offices or warehouses.
International Business Opportunities
Establish a UAE base for eligible cross-border, online and international business activities
Structured Registration Process
Follow the selected authority’s application, documentation, licensing and post-registration procedures with appropriate guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions ?
Can an Indian citizen open a free zone company in the UAE?Indian citizens can generally apply to establish a company in many UAE free zones, subject to the chosen authority’s eligibility rules, documentation and approval.
Can a free zone company do business in mainland UAE?A free zone company may serve certain customers and conduct permitted transactions, but mainland operations or specific activities may require additional permits, arrangements or licences under applicable rules.
No. Visa eligibility and allocation depend on the authority, package, facility and applicable immigration requirements. Confirm the specific package before applying.
Which free zone is best for my business?The right option depends on your business activity, budget, visa requirements, facility needs and target customers. Compare the relevant authorities before selecting one.
How much does a free zone license cost? Costs vary by free zone, license, activities, facility and visa requirements. Request a tailored estimate based on your needs rather than relying on a single advertised starting price.
Can I open a UAE corporate bank account after company formation? You can apply for a corporate bank account after establishing your company, but approval depends on the bank’s due diligence, business activity, documentation and compliance requirements.