Company Formation
Why Choose UAE Free Zone?
Free zones are purpose-built business ecosystems offering unmatched benefits. Unlike mainland setups, free zones give you instant 100% ownership, streamlined processes, and industry-specific infrastructure - all designed to get you operational fast.
Business Entity Types
Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
Single shareholder company. Perfect for solo entrepreneurs and single-owner businesses looking for full control.
Shareholders: 1
Liability: Limited
Popular with: Freelancers, consultants, solo ventures
Free Zone Company (FZC)
Multi-shareholder setup. Ideal for partnerships and businesses with multiple investors or founders.
Shareholders: 2-5
Liability: Limited
Popular with: Partnerships, investor groups, joint ventures
Branch of Foreign Company
Extend your international business. Register your existing company's branch without creating a separate entity.
Parent Control: 100%
Activities: Limited to parent company scope
Popular with: International corporations, global expansions
DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre)
World's #1 free zone for commodities. Premium infrastructure in JLT. Home to 21,000+ businesses in trading, fintech, crypto, and professional services.
Popular with: Commodities traders, fintech, crypto, professional services
Unique Feature: Dual licensing for mainland access
JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone)
Logistics powerhouse. Adjacent to Middle East's largest port. Ideal for manufacturing, trading, and logistics with unmatched global connectivity.
Popular with: Manufacturing, logistics, import/export, heavy industry
Unique Feature: Direct port access, massive warehousing
DAFZA (Dubai Airport Free Zone)
Next to Dubai International Airport. Perfect for aviation, tech, pharma, and e-commerce needing rapid global shipments.
Popular with: Aviation, electronics, pharmaceuticals, cargo
Unique Feature: Airport proximity, customs integration
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
Innovation & tech hub. Live-work ecosystem for tech companies. R&D labs, startups, and manufacturing in one integrated community.
Popular with: Tech startups, IT, AI, software, hardware manufacturing
Unique Feature: Residential integration, tech-focused infrastructure
IFZA (International Free Zone Authority)
Most cost-effective Dubai setup. Modern facilities at budget-friendly rates. Virtual office options available.
Popular with: Startups, SMEs, cost-conscious businesses
Unique Feature: Lowest setup costs in Dubai, flexible packages
SHAMS (Sharjah Media City)
Media & creative hub. Premium facilities for content creators, media companies, and digital businesses at competitive rates.
Popular with: Media, advertising, digital content, creative agencies
Unique Feature: 6 activities per license, affordable packages
SAIF Zone (Sharjah Airport International)
Cost-effective with airport access. 8,000+ companies. ISO-certified. Perfect balance of affordability and connectivity.
Popular with: Trading, logistics, manufacturing, SMEs
Unique Feature: Extremely competitive pricing, airport proximity
RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)
Budget-friendly, northern location. 14,000+ companies. Both free zone and non-free zone options available.
Popular with: Manufacturing, trading, services, startups
Unique Feature: Most affordable, flexible business structures
ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market)
International financial center. Common law jurisdiction. Highest regulatory standards for finance and professional services.
Popular with: Banks, financial institutions, fintech, wealth management
Unique Feature: Common law framework, premium financial hub
Masdar City Free Zone
Clean tech & sustainability hub. Focus on renewable energy, greentech, and sustainable innovation.
Popular with: Clean energy, sustainable tech, environmental solutions
Unique Feature: Dedicated to sustainable businesses
Setup Process
Choose Your Free Zone
Pick based on your industry, budget, location needs, and infrastructure requirements.
Select Entity Type
FZE (single shareholder) or FZC (2-5 shareholders). We'll help you decide.
Pick Your License
Trading, service, industrial, manufacturing, or e-commerce - choose activities that cover your business.
Name Approval
Submit company name for approval. Fast-track approval in most zones.
Submit Documents
Provide required paperwork. Most zones accept digital submissions.
Get Your Space
Choose from flexi-desk, office, or warehouse based on your needs. Virtual offices available in some zones.
Pay Fees & Approvals
Complete payment and receive approvals from free zone authority.
Receive License
Get your trade license and Emirates ID. Start operating immediately.
What You'll Need
Company Formation
Passport copies (shareholders & managers)
Passport-sized photos
Business plan (for some zones)
Proposed company name
Proof of address
For Branch of Foreign Company
Certificate of incorporation (attested)
Memorandum & Articles of Association (attested)
Board resolution for UAE branch
Parent company documents
Visa Processing
Valid passport (6+ months)
Photos & medical fitness
Emirates ID application
Health insurance
Capital Requirements:
Most free zones require minimal to no capital deposit. Some specialised activities may require specific share capital.
