Dubai & UAE Freezone Company Setup | Low-Cost & No Hidden Fees

Q: Can a free zone company trade with clients on the UAE mainland?

Yes, free zone companies can trade with UAE mainland clients, though certain restrictions may apply depending on the specific free zone and business activities.

Your Freezone Journey Starts Here

A free zone is a designated economic area inside the UAE that offers its own commercial rules, licensing categories and immigration services under the federal framework. Companies registered in a free zone can usually enjoy 100% foreign ownership, simplified incorporation, customs advantages for re‑exports, and the ability to obtain residence visas for owners and staff, subject to the package chosen.

Kickstart your new freezone company

From the very first discussion, you get clear guidance on the right Free Zone, the lowest setup cost, visa options, and real timelines—so you register your company without the usual confusion, upsells, or hidden steps most founders get stuck with.

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Built for Real Businesses—No shortcuts, no confusing terms.

Free Zone setup shouldn’t feel like guesswork. We help you choose a zone that fits your business—not just the cheapest option. Every package includes the essentials you actually need: a real office solution, multi-activity licensing, compliance guidance, and bank account support.

Setup Your Freezone Company in Dubai, Ajman, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah with Full Guidance

The economic landscape of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has undergone a radical transformation over the last decade, shifting from a hydrocarbon-dependent economy to a diversified global hub for trade, tourism, and technology. Central to this strategy is the concept of the Free Trade Zone (Freezone)—a designated geographic area within the UAE that operates with distinct regulatory, tax, and customs privileges designed to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

For the entrepreneur, the multinational corporation, or the freelance creative, the Dubai and other Freezone ecosystem represents not just a licensing option, but a strategic operational gateway to the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region. However, the decision to establish a Freezone entity is multifaceted. It involves navigating a complex matrix of over 45 distinct jurisdictions, each with its own legal framework, cost structure, and reputational standing.

The government actively promotes high-growth “promising” sectors such as advanced technology (AI, data centers), digital economy, renewable energy (solar, green hydrogen) and R&D. At the same time, traditional industries like tourism, hospitality, logistics and healthcare remain strong FDI magnets (with booming events and resorts driving tourism). Overall, investors choose the UAE for its 100% foreign ownership (in most industries), streamlined licensing, no personal income or property taxes, and world-class infrastructure (healthcare, transport, urban amenities). The UAE’s competitive tax regime (0% personal tax, 0% capital gains on property, and a 9% corporate tax on profits above AED 375k) and open economy further strengthen its appeal.

Starting a company in a UAE Free Zone offers 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax (subject to conditions), and full capital repatriation. Major Free Zones like DMCC, DAFZA, IFZA, Dubai South (Dubai), SHAMS, Sharjah Publishing City (Sharjah), RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah) and Ajman Free Zone each cater to different industries with streamlined licensing. Free Zone companies typically must rent an office or desk, but enjoy special perks (no customs duties within the zone, easy setup, dedicated infrastructure). For example, SPC Free Zone boasts instant licensing from AED 5,750 with 100% ownership, virtual office space and unlimited visa upgrades.

Business Setup

January 12, 2026

How to Register a Business in UAE from the United Kingdom (UK) remotely (2026 Guide)

Freezone UAE company benefits that matters most. Built for global growth and UAE Full Access

100% Foreign Ownership: Hold full control of your company without a local partner, with clear shareholding documented by the free zone authority.

Global Trading Focus: Serve international clients and markets from a UAE base, with simplified procedures for cross‑border services and re‑exports.

Flexible Office Options: Start with flexi‑desk or shared offices and upgrade to private offices or warehouses only when your team and operations grow.

Visa & Residency Access: Obtain investor and employee residence visas linked to your licence and office package, and later sponsor eligible family members.

Banking & Payments Ready: Benefit from recognised UAE free zone documentation that banks and payment providers are familiar for new bank account opening.

Tax‑Efficient Framework: Access 0% personal income tax and, where conditions are met, 0% corporate tax on qualifying free zone income under the UAE’s current tax regime.

Multi-Activity Licensing: Operate multiple business activities under one license—ideal for modern, hybrid business models.

No Paid-Up Capital Requirement: Most Free Zones allow zero or nominal share capital, reducing upfront costs for founders.

Repatriation and Currency Freedom: Move profits and capital freely, with no currency controls or transfer restrictions.

Streamlined Setup & Remote Incorporation: Use digital portals, e‑signatures and remote verification in many zones to set up your company from abroad before relocating.

Multiple Shareholder & Ownership Options: Set up structures with individual and corporate shareholders from different countries, making it easier to onboard partners or investors later.

Predictable Renewal & Operating Costs: Work with published authority fee structures and multi‑year packages that make it easier to budget for renewals, visas and office upgrades.

Register your freezone company in uae dubai

Hello 👋 I’m Aysh, your Freezone business consultant in UAE.

Let me know if you have any questions and doubts for your business setup.

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Freezones available to register in UAE

Types of Freezones available in different part of UAE

Most UAE Free Zones allow you to combine multiple related activities under a single license like Ajman freezone, making it easier for startups, service businesses, and hybrid digital companies to operate flexibly.

Dubai Free Zones: DMCC, DAFZA, Dubai South, JAFZA, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Silicon Oasis (IFZA), Dubai Design District, and Meydan Free Zone. These zones are ideal for tech, media, trading, logistics, and global headquarters setups.
Sharjah Free Zones: SHAMS, SPC Free Zone, SAIF Zone, Hamriyah Free Zone, and SRTIP. These zones known for competitive pricing, quicker formation, and flexible packages for startups and service businesses.
Ajman Free Zones: Ajman Free Zone (AFZ), Ajman Media City, and Ajman Digital Free Zone. Best for founders looking for straightforward, low-cost licensing and easy visa options.
Ras Al Khaimah Free Zones: RAKEZ, RAK Maritime City, and RAK Digital Assets Oasis. Popular for online store, trading, consultancy, manufacturing, and digital businesses seeking affordable multi-year setup plans.

We're here to help you choosing the right freezone type and business acitivities for maxium benefits.

The Difference

Freezone vs Mainland Companies in UAE

Here’s a simple breakdown showing the difference between Freezone and Mainland companies side by side. This section highlights why many founders, digital businesses, and global entrepreneurs prefer Freezones - faster setup, lower costs, and full ownership - while still understanding the limitations compared to Mainland.

Freezone

What it does

Freezone companies operate with full foreign ownership and are built for international markets, online businesses, and remote-friendly teams. They offer faster setup, lower office requirements, and fewer day-to-day obligations.

Licence

You get your licence from the Freezone Authority you choose. Each zone offers its own set of activities — consulting, digital services, media, trading, e-commerce, IT, and more.

Banking

Freezone companies can open UAE bank accounts easily although it take some time.

Office

Flexi-desk or shared office options are usually enough to register the company, keeping office costs low and setup simple.

Taxes & compliance

0% corporate tax for qualifying Freezone income. VAT applies only to relevant activities. Compliance remains straightforward.

Best for

Best suited for digital businesses, global founders, freelancers, trading companies, and startups looking for easy setup, predictable costs, and full ownership — without needing a big office or local trading.

Cost (First year)

12,800 AED

Renewal Cost

9,920 AED/year
*80% of the first year cost.

Visa

1 Visa included in this package.
For additional visa it will cost 4000-5000 AED for each visa.

Mainland

What it does

Mainland companies are built for full access to the UAE onshore market. They can trade directly with consumers and companies across the Emirates, bid for certain government contracts and run customer‑facing locations like shops.

Licence

Issued by the local economic department (like Dubai DED). Covers retail, services, contracting, and other onshore activities. Activity lists are broad and suited to on‑ground operations

Banking

Bank account approval is generally faster, with many banks prioritizing mainland companies.

Office

A physical office is mandatory. In Dubai, that usually means a minimum of around 200 sq ft per licence.

Taxes & compliance

VAT applies (5% on taxable supplies) as usual. Corporate Tax of 9% applies on profits above AED 375k (As of now 2026)

Best for

Best for businesses that depend on direct onshore sales and walk‑in customers, such as retail, healthcare, F&B, maintenance services or companies bidding for local tenders and large UAE‑based contracts.

(First year) Cost

18,200 AED

Renewal Cost

15,000 AED/year
*80% of the first year cost.

Visa

No visa included in this Package. With 1-Visa Dubai mailand standard business cost AED 26,355. Other State mainland will cost less.

Still unsure? Schedule a call with us

Get in touch

Here’s how Freezone Business Setup process work

How it works

Getting started is quick and simple. Three steps and you’ve got a clean UAE Freezone company without the paperwork headache.

Step 1

We help you choose the right Freezone and activity

We begin with a short call to understand your business. Based on that, we suggest the right Freezone, confirm your activities, and secure your company name. You’ll receive a simple checklist so you know exactly what comes next.

Selecting the right business activity

For your business

Step 2

We prepare the documents and handle the approvals

Our team organizes the legal forms, gathers the required KYC/UBO details, and coordinates the approvals directly with the Freezone. Everything is reviewed online, keeping the process smooth and easy. You just sign when needed.

We'll prepare everything for you

You just need to e-sign

Step 3

You receive your licence, company docs, and bank file

Once approved, you get your licence, MOA, and company setup documents — along with a bank-ready file and visa guidance. We also walk you through the first renewal steps so your business stays compliant from day one.

We get you incorporated

With bank account in uae

Freezone Business Setup Cost in 3 Popular UAE Zones

Here’s a clear look at how IFZA, Ajman Free Zone, and SHAMS compare on cost, value, flexibility, and what you actually get. Everything upfront and easy to understand — so you can pick a Freezone that fits your budget and business needs.

Transparent Registration Cost + Visa Fees

Shams, Sharjah

15,200 AED

SHAMS is built for media, creative, and service businesses that want low setup fees with a Sharjah address. The zone offers flexible activity combinations, quick licence issuance, and remote-friendly office options — all at a very competitive rate. Popular choice for entrepreneurs.

Get in touch

What’s included?

SHAMS licence (1-visa package)
Activity approval (media + service focused categories)
Sharjah Shams Freezone Office e-address
Digital incorporation documents
Co-working space/ Virtual Office space included
Bank support & compliance guidance
Upto 5 Business Activities (only relevant activities)
Lifetime Visa – Your visa renews automatically each year with your licence at no extra cost.
Renewal cost @10,000 AED (Activity depended)

Registration time: 4-7 days if documents get cleared.

Please note: This package includes visa. For only business license, it will cost 6,500 AED.

Ajman (AFZ)

12,800 AED

Ajman Free Zone is one of the most affordable Freezone options in the UAE. Ideal for small businesses, freelancers, and cost-conscious founders who want a clean setup without heavy office or compliance expenses. Fast licensing and simple process for company setup.

Get in touch

What’s included?

AFZ licence (1-visa starter package)
Ajman Freezone e-office address
Bank assistance with KYC file
Activity approval and incorporation docs
Co-working space/ Virtual Office space included
Upto 10 Business Activities (Different activities allowed)
Lifetime Visa – Your visa renews automatically each year with your licence at no extra cost.
Renewal Cost @9,900 AED/year (Activity depended)

Registration time: 3-5 Days if documents get cleared.

Please note: This package includes visa. For only business license, it will cost 6,100 AED.

IFZA, Dubai.

20,100 AED

IFZA is great for founders who want a smooth setup with strong banking acceptance. With simple activity selection, fast approvals, and clean documentation, it’s a go-to choice for consultants, online businesses, and foreign investors wanting a Dubai address without premium office expenses.

Get in touch

What’s included?

IFZA business licence (1-visa package)
Dubai Silicon Oasis address
Bank-ready file + support
Optional visa add-ons available any time
Co-working space/ Virtual Office space included
Upto 5 Business Activities (only relevant activities)
Bank Ready
Lifetime Visa – Your visa renews automatically each year with your licence at no extra cost.
Renewal cost @18,000 AED/year (Activity depended)

Registration time: 7-12 Days if documents get cleared.

Please note: This package includes visa. For only business license, it will cost 14,200 AED.

Downloadable “bank-ready” KYC guide—real docs, instructions, and what banks look at (no more guessing).

Guide

Check what documents required for Freezone business registration/Setup in UAE.

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freezone business setup consultants in dubai

See Freezone Company Checklist.

Helping you run, grow, and stay compliant

Your partners in business, not just incorporation

We don’t just help you start your business - we stick with you as it grows. From renewals and compliance to strategy and everyday challenges, you’ll always have someone to call who actually understands how things work.

Schedule a free meeting

Setup

Fast, clean incorporation

We set up your Feezone company, get the documents in order, and handle filings while you focus on your company and vision.

Post Setup

Post-setup support

Got a question about your first payment, a bank issue, or a confusing email from some government department? You can reach us on WhatsApp, by phone, or through email - whatever works best for you. We’ll guide you through renewals, help with UBO or ESR reporting, and make sure you’re in the loop about rule changes—before they turn into problems.

Research

Market research + practical growth

Ready to get your business moving? We’ll help you understand your market, share useful insights, review your contracts, and point out any risks you should know about.

Growth

Advanced advisory

If you’re growing, we’ll help with share transfers, board updates, or moving your setup to a free zone or onshore, all with a clear plan that makes sense. Need accountants, tax help, legal support, or a notary? You’ll deal with real people who actually listen and understand your query, not a call centre.

Beyond

Beyond: Ongoing partnership

You’ll get reminders before anything expires, small updates to keep you penalty-free, and a yearly check-in to make sure everything’s running smoothly. And if you ever feel stuck or have a new idea you want to talk through, we’re always around for a straight, honest chat—sometimes that’s all you need.

Learn more

The Other Business Setup Options

The Right Setup for your Business in Dubai, UAE.

Explore Mainland, offshore, and Holding Company routes built for Dubai and the UAE, with clear steps and a steady hand from start to license.

Schedule a free meeting

Mainland Business Setup. Trade across the UAE with a license that builds local credibility and access. Get Dubai business address.

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Offshore Business Setup. Operate globally with a tax-efficient structure that boosts privacy and protects assets with full ownership.

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Holding Company Setup. Own assets, shares, and IP under one roof with a clean, investor‑friendly structure

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Frequently asked questions

Can a free zone company trade with clients on the UAE mainland?

Yes, but with structure. A free zone company can provide services to mainland clients or sell goods through approved channels, but direct retail trading and some regulated activities generally require either:

• appointing a mainland distributor / commercial agent, or

• opening a mainland branch or LLC that holds the onshore contracts.
We explain options based on your exact model so you stay compliant.

Do I get a UAE residence visa with a free zone company?

Most free zone licences allow visas for shareholders and employees, subject to package and office type. The number of visas linked to your company depends on the zone and the size of your leased space. We recommend packages that match your current and near‑term hiring plan.

How long does it take to get a free zone licence?

If your documents are in order and the activity is straightforward, initial approval can be issued within a few days and your licence within 4-7 days. Visas and bank accounts add more time (almost 10 days). Complex regulated activities naturally take longer.

What documents do I need to start a Freezone company?

Usually your passport copy, a photo, business activity list, and bank statement or any utility bill for country residence proof.

Do I need to visit the UAE to open a Freezone company?

Most Freezones allow full remote setup. You only need to visit later if you're applying for a UAE residency visa. You've to plan for at-least 10 day trip.

Do I need an office to start a Freezone company?

A physical office is not needed. A flexi-desk or coworking space from the Freezone is enough for licensing and visa eligibility.

Can Freezone companies open UAE bank accounts?

Yes. All Freezone companies can open accounts, as long as KYC requirements are met. We'll help you to open your corporate bank account and even your personal bank account.

Is it harder for Freezone companies to open a bank account?

Not harder, but banks may take more time to review compared to mainland. Good documentation helps.

Can I have multiple business activities under one free zone company?

Yes, most authorities allow you to combine several related activities under one licence, subject to their list and category rules. Where combinations are not allowed, we help you structure the activities across separate licences or clarify what is realistically possible.

What if I am currently employed in the UAE? Can I still open a free zone company?

Yes, but you may need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your existing employer depending on your visa status and the authority’s rules. We review your current employment contract, visa and sponsor details to structure this correctly.

How much does a Freezone visa cost?

Usually around AED 3,800 to AED 5,000 depending on the Freezone and medical/Emirates ID charges.

Can I sponsor my family with a Freezone visa?

Yes. Once your residence visa is issued, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and parents (under certain rules). Although, security deposit is required around 2000 AED for each family members. When you leave UAE with your family then you'll get the refund.

What is the cheapest Freezone in the UAE?

Ajman Free Zone, SPC and SHAMS Sharjah are often among the lowest-cost options for startup licences.

Can I upgrade from a free zone to a mainland structure later?

Yes. Many businesses start in a free zone to test the market, then open a mainland branch or new mainland company once onshore demand grows. We plan this path with you so contracts, branding and banking continue smoothly.

Are free zone companies suitable for holding intellectual property or shares in other entities?

Several authorities offer holding / SPV structures for IP or equity holdings. The right choice depends on where your operating companies sit, your investors’ preferences and tax considerations in other countries. We can coordinate with your advisors to set this up correctly.

What documents do I need as an individual shareholder for Freezone Business Setup?

These are the documents required for an individual share holder.

1. Passport Copies.
2. Digital Shareholder photo in plain background.
3. Bank Statement or any utility bill for country residence proof.

That's it

Check more Faqs

You’ll find clear answers on our dedicated Freezone business setup page, or you can connect directly with our team by clicking the button below. All guidance on this website is based on hands-on experience from 500+ UAE company registrations and verified against official UAE government sources. We focus on sharing accurate, real-world insights backed by actual case studies.

Freezone Business Setup in Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, UAE.

Your Freezone Journey Starts Here

From the very first discussion, you get clear guidance on the right Free Zone, the lowest setup cost, visa options, and real timelines—so you register your company without the usual confusion, upsells, or hidden steps most founders get stuck with.

Setup Your Freezone Company in Dubai, Ajman, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah with Full Guidance

Freezone UAE company benefits that matters most. Built for global growth and UAE Full Access

Types of Freezones available in different part of UAE

Your trusted Freezone Setup partner in the UAE

Freezone companies formed across Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Abu Dhabhi, and Ras Al Khaima.

A dedicated relationship manager guides every step, we prepare a bank‑ready dossier, and we keep fees transparent.

Freezone vs Mainland Companies in UAE

Freezone

Mainland

How it works

Freezone Business Setup Cost in 3 Popular UAE Zones

Shams, Sharjah

Ajman (AFZ)

IFZA, Dubai.

Downloadable “bank-ready” KYC guide—real docs, instructions, and what banks look at (no more guessing).

Check what documents required for Freezone business registration/Setup in UAE.

Your partners in business, not just incorporation

The Right Setup for your Business in Dubai, UAE.

Frequently asked questions