How to Get a Free Zone License in the UAE
Free zone licenses offer a number of benefits to businesses, including 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of profits, no corporate income tax, and no customs duties on imports and exports. The process for obtaining a free zone license is generally simple and streamlined, and businesses can have their license up and running within a few weeks.
If you are interested in setting up a business in a free zone in the UAE, here is a step-by-step guide:
- Choose a free zone. There are over 40 free zones in the UAE, each with its own unique benefits and industry focus. Do some research to determine which free zone is right for your business.
- Select a business activity. Each free zone has its own list of permitted activities. Check with the free zone authority to make sure that the business activity you want to operate is allowed.
- Register a trade name. Once you have chosen a business activity, you need to register a trade name for your company. This can be done through the free zone authority.
- Apply for a business license. The application process will vary depending on the free zone, but the following documents are typically required:
- Completed application form
- Business plan
- Copy of passport and visa
- Proof of residency (if applicable)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (if applicable)
- Board resolution appointing a manager (if applicable)
- Power of attorney authorizing a manager (if applicable)
- Payment of license fees
- Obtain approvals. Certain types of businesses may require additional approvals from other government authorities. For example, businesses that deal with food or pharmaceuticals will need to obtain approval from the relevant municipality.
- Set up your business. Once you have obtained your business license, you can set up your business in the free zone. This may involve leasing office space, hiring staff, and obtaining the necessary equipment and supplies.
For more information or assistance with obtaining a free zone license in the UAE, please contact us today.
ABU DHABI
- Masdar: Specializes in renewable energy and sustainable technologies.
- Media Zone Authority – TOWFOUR54: Supports the media industry with innovative solutions and services.
- Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone: Provides comprehensive services for businesses related to the aviation industry.
- KIZAD: Offers world-class infrastructure and logistics solutions, focusing on industrial development.
- Abu Dhabi Global Market: A leading financial center catering to various financial and professional services.
DUBAI
Dubai Development Authority:
- Dubai Internet City: Specializes in technology and ICT businesses.
- Dubai Media City: Supports media and advertising industries.
- Dubai Design District: Fosters the growth of the design industry.
- Dubai Knowledge Park: Facilitates education and training sectors.
- Dubai Production City: Encourages the growth of production and manufacturing businesses.
- Dubai Studio City: Supports the film and television production industry.
- Dubai Outsource City: Provides comprehensive outsourcing solutions for businesses.
- Dubai Science Park: Fosters the growth of the science and healthcare industries.
- Dubai Wholesale City: Supports various wholesale and trading businesses.
- Dubai International Academic City: Facilitates the growth of academic and educational institutions.
Dubai International Financial Centre Authority:
- Dubai International Financial Centre: A prominent global financial hub for the region.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority:
- Dubai Silicon Oasis: Focuses on the development of the technology and semiconductor industries.
Dubai Maritime City Authority:
- Dubai Maritime City: Provides specialized services for the maritime industry.
Department of Planning & Developing – Trakhees:
- Trakhees: Overseeing and regulating various development projects in Dubai.
Dubai Healthcare City Authority:
- Dubai Healthcare City: Dedicated to the healthcare and medical education sectors.
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre Authority:
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre: Supports the trade of commodities and valuable goods.
Meydan:
- Meydan: A hub for various business and entertainment activities.
International City for Humanitarian Services Authority:
- International City for Humanitarian Services: Supports humanitarian and charitable organizations.
Dubai South:
- Dubai South: Provides comprehensive services for various industries and businesses.
Dubai World Trade Center Authority:
- Dubai World Trade Center: A prominent hub for global trade and business events.
Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority:
- Dubai Airport Free Zone: Offers extensive logistics services for businesses related to the aviation industry.
- Commerce City: A dynamic business hub fostering trade and commerce.
- Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority: A sprawling business park catering to various industries, including trade, logistics, and manufacturing.
- Dubai Textile City: A specialized zone for textile and garment businesses.
- Dubai Industrial Park: Provides comprehensive industrial infrastructure and business solutions.
- Dubai Gold and Diamond Park: Caters to the gold and diamond industry, providing world-class facilities and services.
- Dubai Auto Zone: Specialized zone for the automotive industry.
SHARJAH
- Sharjah International Airport Free Zone: Provides comprehensive logistics services for businesses.
- Hamriyah Free Zone Authority: Offers cost-effective business solutions for various industries.
- Sharjah Publishing City: Focuses on supporting the publishing and printing industries.
- Sharjah Research Technology & Innovation Park: Fosters innovation and research in various industries.
- Sharjah Media City – Shams: Provides a supportive environment for media and creative industries.
AJMAN
- Ajman Media City: Supports the media and entertainment industries.
- Ajman Free Zone: Offers strategic and cost-effective business solutions for various sectors.
RAS AL KHAIMAH
- RAKEZ: Provides diverse business solutions and comprehensive facilities for various industries.
- Ras Al Khaimah Maritime: Specializes in maritime-related businesses and services.
UMM AL QUWAIN
- Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone: Offers an investor-friendly environment for businesses.
FUJAIRAH
- Fujairah Free Zone: Provides a conducive environment for various businesses and industries.
- Fujairah Creative City: Fosters the growth of the creative and media industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: The benefits of setting up a business in a free zone in the UAE include:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Full repatriation of profits
- No corporate income tax
- No customs duties on imports and exports
- Simple and streamlined business registration process
- Access to a world-class infrastructure and amenities
A: The requirements for obtaining a free zone license in the UAE vary depending on the free zone. However, most free zones require businesses to have a registered office in the free zone and to employ a minimum number of staff.
A: The cost of a free zone license in the UAE varies depending on the free zone and the type of business activity. However, free zone licenses are generally very affordable, especially compared to the cost of setting up a business in mainland UAE.
A: The time it takes to obtain a free zone license in the UAE varies depending on the free zone and the complexity of the application. However, most free zones can issue a license within a few weeks.
A: Each free zone has its own list of permitted activities. However, most free zones allow a wide range of businesses to operate, including trading, manufacturing, services, and e-commerce.
A: No, you do not need a local sponsor to obtain a free zone license in the UAE. Free zone licenses are open to 100% foreign ownership.
A: Yes, many free zones offer freelancer licenses. Freelancer licenses allow individuals to operate their own businesses without the need to set up a company.