UAE Free Zones: Complete Guide to Business Setup
Explore all 56 UAE free zones across Dubai, Abu Dhabi & other emirates. Expert guidance for 100% foreign ownership and tax-free business setup.
What are Free Zones in UAE?
Free zones in UAE are designated economic areas that offer exceptional business advantages including 100 percent ownership for foreign investors, comprehensive tax exemptions, and streamlined regulatory frameworks.
These specialized business environments are designed to attract international companies and entrepreneurs seeking strategic access to Middle Eastern, Asian, and African markets.
Key Advantages
With over 56 free zones across 7 emirates, the UAE offers the most diverse and comprehensive free zone ecosystem in the Middle East, making it the preferred destination for international business expansion.
Benefits of UAE Free Zone Business Setup
Discover why free zone vs mainland UAE comparison consistently favors free zones for international businesses seeking operational excellence and tax efficiency.
100% Foreign Ownership
Complete foreign ownership without the need for a local sponsor or partner, giving you full control of your business.
Tax Exemptions
Comprehensive UAE free zone tax benefits including zero corporate tax, personal income tax, and import/export duties.
Capital & Profit Repatriation
100% repatriation of capital and profits with no restrictions on currency conversion or transfer.
No Currency Restrictions
Freedom to conduct business in any currency with no exchange controls or limitations.
Simplified Setup Process
Streamlined business registration with dedicated support and faster processing compared to mainland setup.
Strategic Locations
Prime locations with world-class infrastructure, connectivity, and access to global markets.
UAE Free Zones by Emirates
Comprehensive overview of all 56 free zones distributed across the seven emirates of the UAE with detailed metadata and business insights.
Dubai
Global business hub with the most diverse free zones
Abu Dhabi
Capital emirate focusing on finance and technology
Sharjah
Cost-effective solutions with strategic location
Ajman
Budget-friendly options for small businesses
Fujairah
Strategic east coast location for trade
Ras Al Khaimah
Northern emirates with flexible business structures
Umm Al Quwain
Emerging business destination with competitive rates
Complete List of UAE Free Zones
Explore all free zones with advanced filtering and detailed comparison
Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone (ADAFZ)
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
Ajman Free Zone
Dubai Auto Zone (DAZ)
Dubai Flower Centre
Dubai Healthcare City
UAE Free Zone Comparison
Compare free zone business setup cost, processing times, and key features to make an informed decision for your UAE business establishment.
|
Free Zone
|
Emirate
|
Industry
|
License Types
|
License Cost
|
Visa Count
|
Processing Time
|
||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai |
Mid-range
|
Up to 15
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Umm Al Quwain |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 12
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Fujairah |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 6
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Fujairah |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 15
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Ras Al Khaimah |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 10
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Ras Al Khaimah |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 15
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Ras Al Khaimah |
Mid-range
|
Up to 15
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Ras Al Khaimah |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 20
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Ajman |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 10
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Ajman |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 15
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Sharjah |
Mid-range
|
Up to 12
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Sharjah |
Mid-range
|
Up to 15
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Sharjah |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 12
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Sharjah |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 10
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Sharjah |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 15
|
1-2 weeks
|
|||||
| Sharjah |
Budget-friendly
|
Min. 1 visas
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Sharjah |
Budget-friendly
|
Min. 2 visas
|
2-4 weeks
|
|||||
| Abu Dhabi |
Budget-friendly
|
Min. 3 visas
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Abu Dhabi |
Budget-friendly
|
Min. 1 visas
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Abu Dhabi |
Mid-range
|
Min. 2 visas
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Abu Dhabi |
Budget-friendly
|
Min. 3 visas
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Abu Dhabi |
|
Budget-friendly
|
Min. 3 visas
|
1-3 days
|
||||
| Abu Dhabi |
Budget-friendly
|
Min. 5 visas
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Abu Dhabi |
Premium
|
Up to 50
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Abu Dhabi |
|
Mid-range
|
Up to 50
|
2-4 weeks
|
||||
| Dubai |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 20
|
1-2 weeks
|
|||||
| Dubai |
Budget-friendly
|
Min. 0 visas
|
1-2 weeks
|
|||||
| Dubai |
Mid-range
|
Up to 50
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Dubai |
Premium
|
Up to 100
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Dubai |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 500
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Dubai |
|
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 50
|
1-3 days
|
||||
| Dubai |
Mid-range
|
Up to 50
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Dubai |
Mid-range
|
Up to 100
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Dubai |
Mid-range
|
Up to 75
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
| Dubai |
Budget-friendly
|
Up to 50
|
1-3 days
|
|||||
* Data provided is for reference purposes. Actual requirements and fees may vary based on specific business activities and regulations at the time of application.
** For a detailed consultation and up-to-date information, please contact our business setup advisors.
Why Choose Inlex Partners for Free Zone Business Setup
As leading free zone consultants UAE, we provide unmatched expertise and personalized free zone business setup services tailored to your success.
Proven Track Record
Successfully assisted 500+ companies in UAE free zone business setup with 98% client satisfaction rate.
Expert Team
Dedicated free zone consultants UAE with deep knowledge of all 56 free zones and their unique requirements.
Fast Processing
Streamlined processes ensure your free zone business setup is completed in record time without compromising quality.
Full Compliance
Ensure 100% regulatory compliance with UAE laws and free zone specific requirements.
End-to-End Support
Comprehensive free zone business setup services from initial consultation to post-incorporation support.
Multi-Language Support
Professional assistance in multiple languages to serve our diverse international client base.
What Our Clients Say
"Inlex Partners made our DMCC setup incredibly smooth. Their expertise saved us months of research and potential mistakes."
"Professional, efficient, and knowledgeable. The team guided us through every step of the JAFZA registration process."
"Excellent service for our Dubai Media City setup. They understood our creative industry needs perfectly."
Free Zone Business Setup Process
Our comprehensive UAE free zone business setup process ensures smooth company registration with expert guidance at every step.
Choose Suitable Free Zone
Select the ideal free zone based on your business activities, budget, and strategic requirements.
Prepare Documents
Gather required documentation including passport copies, business plans, and educational certificates.
Submit Application
File your application with the chosen free zone authority through official channels.
Get Preliminary Approval
Receive initial approval from the free zone after document verification and compliance check.
Pay Fees
Complete payment of license fees, visa fees, and other applicable charges.
Receive License
Obtain your official trade license and begin business operations in the UAE.
Open Bank Account
Establish corporate banking relationships with local or international banks.
Process Visas
Apply for residence visas for employees, partners, and family members.
5-10 Business Days
Our streamlined UAE free zone company registration process ensures efficient setup with minimal delays and maximum compliance.
Start Your Free Zone Business Journey Today
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Free Zone Guide Download
Download our comprehensive guide covering all UAE free zones, comparison charts, and setup requirements.