Dubai's Free Zones are among the most business-friendly jurisdictions in the world, offering entrepreneurs 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and streamlined company registration processes. This guide walks you through the step-by-step process of establishing your business in a Dubai Free Zone.
Why Choose a Dubai Free Zone?
Free Zones in Dubai provide unmatched advantages for international investors:
- 100% Foreign Ownership: No need for a local sponsor or partner
- Tax Benefits: Zero corporate and personal income tax
- Full Repatriation of Profits: No restrictions on transferring earnings abroad
- World-Class Infrastructure: State-of-the-art facilities and business centers
- Strategic Location: Gateway to MENA, Asia, and European markets
Step-by-Step Business Setup Process
1. Choose Your Free Zone
Dubai has over 30 specialized Free Zones. The most popular include:
- DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre): Ideal for trading, commodities, and startups
- DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre): For financial services and fintech
- Dubai Internet City: Technology and digital businesses
- JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone): Manufacturing, logistics, and industrial
- Dubai Media City: Media, marketing, and creative industries
2. Select Your Business Activity
Each Free Zone has a list of approved activities. Ensure your business type is permitted in your chosen Free Zone.
3. Reserve Your Trade Name
Submit 2-3 name options to the Free Zone authority for approval. Names must comply with UAE naming conventions.
4. Apply for Your License
Depending on your business, you'll need one of these licenses:
- Commercial License: For trading businesses
- Professional License: For service providers
- Industrial License: For manufacturing
5. Submit Required Documents
Typical documents include:
- Passport copies of shareholders
- Proof of address
- Business plan (for some Free Zones)
- Completed application forms
6. Lease Office Space
Most Free Zones require physical office space. Options include:
- Private offices
- Flexi-desks
- Warehouses (for industrial businesses)
7. Receive Your License and Start Operations
Processing typically takes 3-7 working days after approval. You'll receive:
- Free Zone business license
- Establishment card
- Access to apply for visas
Cost Breakdown
Typical costs for Free Zone setup:
| Item | Cost Range (AED) |
|---|---|
| License Fees | 10,000 - 50,000 |
| Office Space (Annual) | 15,000 - 100,000 |
| Visa Costs (Per Person) | 3,000 - 7,000 |
| Additional Approvals | 2,000 - 10,000 |
Need Help With Your Free Zone Setup?
Our experts handle everything from licensing to visas
Get Free ConsultationHow Finsure Simplifies the Process
With 10+ years of experience, Finsure Corporate Services provides:
- Free Zone Selection: We match your business with the ideal Free Zone
- Document Preparation: We handle all paperwork and submissions
- License Processing: Faster approval through our direct Free Zone relationships
- Visa Assistance: From application to medical and Emirates ID
- Bank Account Opening: Guidance on choosing the right bank
"Setting up in a Dubai Free Zone through Finsure was seamless. They handled everything from licensing to visas in under 2 weeks." - Sarah Johnson, Tech Startup Founder
