Free zone
Free zone company setup in the UAE
Free zones offer full foreign ownership, streamlined registration and specialised business communities. We help you choose the right zone and complete your setup.
What is a free zone company?
A free zone is a designated economic area with its own authority, regulations and licensing. Companies registered there can be 100% foreign-owned and benefit from simplified procedures and business-ready infrastructure.
The UAE has dozens of free zones across the seven emirates, many focused on particular sectors such as trading, logistics, technology, media or financial services. Choosing a zone that matches your activity is the most important decision.
Benefits of a free zone setup
100% foreign ownership
No local partner or sponsor is required.
Tax advantages
Qualifying free zone companies may benefit from 0% Corporate Tax on qualifying income, subject to conditions; customs benefits apply within the zone.
Capital and profit repatriation
Repatriate capital and profits without currency restrictions.
Flexible office options
From flexi-desks to dedicated offices and warehouses, depending on your needs.
Faster registration
Streamlined, largely digital procedures managed by a single authority.
Strategic location
Access markets in Europe, Asia and Africa from the UAE.
The free zone setup process
Select the free zone
Match the zone to your activity, budget, location and visa needs.
Choose a structure
A single-shareholder or multi-shareholder company, or a branch of an existing company.
Reserve the name
Choose a distinctive name that complies with the zone’s naming rules.
Choose the licence
Trading, service, industrial or other licence types depending on your activity.
Register the company
Submit shareholder documents and the company’s constitutional documents, and pay the fees.
Office solution
Confirm your flexi-desk, office or warehouse package.
Bank account
Open a corporate bank account with the licence and company documents.
Visas
Apply for investor and employee visas within your package allocation.
Frequently asked questions
Can a free zone company trade with the UAE mainland?
Free zone companies mainly operate within their zone and internationally. Trading directly in the mainland usually requires a mainland distributor, an additional permit or a mainland branch, depending on the zone and activity.
Are free zone companies tax-free?
Not automatically. Free zone companies are within the scope of UAE Corporate Tax. Those that meet the conditions of a Qualifying Free Zone Person may apply 0% to qualifying income, while other income is taxed at the standard rate.
How many visas can I get?
It depends on the free zone and the office package you choose. We compare packages for you based on the number of visas you need.
Related services
Talk to a business setup advisor
Tell us about your plans and we will recommend the right structure, licence and next steps for your business.
