UAE Free Zones are special economic zones offering 100% foreign ownership, 0% personal income tax (subject to qualifying activities), 100% repatriation of profits, and a streamlined setup process.
With over 40 free zones across the UAE, choosing the right one is the biggest decision โ IFZA for cost-effective digital businesses, DMCC for trading and crypto, RAKEZ for industrial, Shams for media, and Meydan for prestige. We help you pick based on activity, budget, and visa requirements.
Key benefits
- 100% foreign ownership. No local sponsor or partner required at any percentage.
- 0% corporate tax. On qualifying free-zone income (subject to UAE corporate tax rules from June 2023).
- Full profit repatriation. Take all profits and capital out of the UAE without restriction.
- Streamlined setup. Free zones run faster, paperwork-lighter setup processes than DED mainland.
- Visa eligibility. 1โ6 visas depending on package; ideal for relocation.
- Industry-specific clusters. DMCC for commodities, DAFZA for aviation, Shams for media โ strategic ecosystems.
Documents required
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- Photo of authorised signatory
- CV / professional history
- Address proof (utility bill < 3 months)
- Business plan summary
- Bank reference letter (some free zones)
How the process works
- Free zone selection. Match activity, budget and visa needs to the right free zone.
- Application & approval. Submit application to free zone authority. Approval typically in 3โ5 days.
- Initial fee payment & licence issuance. Free zone licence is issued.
- Bank account & visa. Open business bank account; apply for residence visas (4โ6 weeks).
Who is this for?
- Founders building international / regional businesses
- Service & consulting firms
- E-commerce and trading (subject to free-zone activity)
- Media, education, healthcare specialists