Free Zone Company Setup in UAE
Set up your free zone company in the UAE with 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of profits and 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, subject to conditions. We help you choose the right free zone and handle the licence, visas and bank account support from start to finish.
Set Up Your Free Zone Company with Confidence
A UAE free zone company lets you own 100% of your business, repatriate profits and trade internationally, with licences for trading, services, media, tech and more. Choosing the right free zone depends on your activity, visa needs, office needs and budget.
Exactitude Business Services is a private business consultancy, not a government entity. We compare free zones such as IFZA, Meydan Free Zone, RAKEZ, SHAMS, Ajman Nuventure and Dubai South for you, prepare and submit your application to the free zone, and follow up until your licence is issued. We can then help with visas, corporate banking introductions and accounting.
What Is a Free Zone Company in the UAE?
A free zone company is a business established and licensed under the rules of a specific UAE free zone authority. Each free zone has its own licensing framework, permitted activities, office requirements, and service packages.
Entrepreneurs, professional service providers, trading businesses, technology companies, e-commerce businesses, and international companies use free zones to establish a UAE presence.
Depending on the selected free zone and business structure, you may benefit from:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Flexible business activity options
- Repatriation of capital and profits
- Access to business infrastructure and logistics networks
- Visa options based on the applicable package and office arrangement
- Streamlined company formation procedures
Exact requirements depend on the free zone, business activity, ownership structure, and other applicable regulations.
What's Included in Our Free Zone Setup Service
- Free consultation and side-by-side free zone comparison
- Business activity and legal structure advice (FZE, FZCO or branch)
- Company name check and document checklist
- Application preparation, submission and follow-up with the free zone
- Trade licence and company documents handed over to you
Optional: Visa processing, bank account introductions, accounting and VAT/corporate tax registration support
Exact package inclusions depend on the free zone and are confirmed in your quote.
Our Experience
Benefits of UAE Free Zone Company
100% Foreign Ownership
Unlike mainland companies, Free zone businesses allow full ownership without the need for a local sponsor.
Free Zone Tax Benefits
Qualifying free zone companies can benefit from 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, subject to conditions. There is no personal income tax in the UAE.
Full Repatriation of Profits
Send back 100% of your capital and profits without restrictions.
Easy Business Formation
Free zones provide simplified licensing and registration procedures with minimal documentation.
Strategic Global Location
Dubai offers unmatched connectivity to Asia, Europe, and Africa, ideal for global trade and logistics.
Modern Infrastructure
Access to premium office spaces, warehousing, and logistics hubs.
Who Can Benefit From Free zone Business Setup UAE
A UAE free zone structure may be considered by:
- Consultants and professional service providers
- Technology and software companies
- E-commerce businesses
- Trading and import-export companies
- Marketing and media businesses
- Start-ups and entrepreneurs
- International companies establishing a UAE presence
- Holding and investment-related businesses, where permitted
- Businesses looking for a UAE-based operating structure
The right free zone depends on what you actually plan to do. We assess your activity, customer market, visa requirements, office needs, banking requirements, and budget before recommending suitable options.
How to Choose the Right UAE Free Zone
Choosing the cheapest licence is not always the right approach. A suitable free zone should support your business model today and your plans for future growth.
Business Activity
Your activity determines which free zones and licence categories may be available.
Customer Market
Consider whether your customers are in the UAE, outside the UAE or across multiple international markets.
Visa Requirements
The number of visas you need can affect your package, office requirements and overall setup cost.
Office Requirements
Some businesses may operate with flexible office arrangements, while others may require dedicated premises or specialised facilities.
Corporate Banking
Your activity, shareholders, source of funds, expected transactions and customer geography can influence banking requirements.
Tax & Compliance
Your company structure and activities should be considered when planning Corporate Tax, VAT and accounting obligations.
Budget
Compare not only the initial licence fee but also visas, office requirements, approvals, renewals and other applicable costs.
Future Business Plans
The right free zone should be considered in the context of your expected activities, markets and expansion plans.
Free Zone Business Activities in the UAE
The UAE's free zones support a wide range of economic activities. Depending on the authority, businesses may apply for licences covering areas such as:
Professional Services
- Management consultancy
- Business consultancy
- Marketing services
- Professional advisory services
Technology
- Software development
- IT services
- Technology consultancy
- Digital businesses
Trading
- General trading
- Specialised trading
- Import and export
- Distribution
E-commerce
- Online retail
- E-commerce services
- Digital commerce
Media & Creative
- Digital marketing
- Media production
- Content creation
- Creative services
Logistics
- Warehousing
- Distribution
- Logistics-related activities
Activity availability varies between free zones, so the exact activity should be confirmed with the selected authority before incorporation.
Legal Structures for a Free Zone Company
Depending on the free zone and shareholder structure, businesses may be established using different legal forms.
FZE — Free Zone Establishment
Generally used for a company with a single shareholder where this structure is available.
FZCO / Free Zone Company
Generally used for companies with multiple shareholders where permitted by the relevant authority.
Branch
An existing UAE or foreign company may be able to establish a branch in a free zone, subject to the authority's requirements.
Legal structure names, shareholder requirements, and eligibility vary between free zones.
How Free Zone Company Setup Works
Step 1: Choose the Right Free zone
We compare free zones such as IFZA, Meydan, RAKEZ, SHAMS, Ajman Nuventure and Dubai South against your activity, visa needs and budget.
Step 2: Define Your Business Activity
Each Free zone specializes in specific sectors such as trading, media, technology, or logistics.
Step 3: Select a Legal Structure
Decide whether to establish a Free zone Company (FZCO), Free zone Establishment (FZE), or a branch of an existing business.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
Provide essential documents such as passport copies, business plan, and proof of address.
Step 5: Obtain Trade License
Once approved, receive your Free zone trade license, allowing you to operate in the UAE legally.
Step 6: Open a Corporate Bank Account
We prepare your bank file and introduce you to suitable UAE banks; each bank makes its own decision.
Step 7: Apply for Visas
Apply for investor and employee visas if your package includes a visa allocation. Visa numbers depend on the free zone, package and office.
Free Zone Business Setup Cost in UAE
The cost of setting up a free zone business varies by authority and business requirements. There is no single UAE-wide setup price.
Your total cost may depend on:
- Selected free zone
- Business activity
- Licence type
- Number of shareholders
- Visa requirements
- Office or flexi-desk arrangement
- Establishment and immigration requirements
- Additional activity approvals
- Corporate documents and attestations where required
- Renewal and ongoing compliance costs
A low initial licence price may not represent the final cost if you also need visas, office space, additional approvals, or other services.
Popular Free Zones in the UAE
Dubai free zones
- IFZA (International Free Zone Authority), Dubai
- Dubai South
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
- Dubai Airport Free zone (DAFZA)
Other UAE free zones
- Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)
- Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
- Ajman Free Zone
- Ajman Nuventure
- Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
- Fujairah Creative City
Each free zone has different activities, visa allocations and costs. We compare them for your business and recommend the best fit; the free zone authority issues your licence.
Free Zone vs Mainland vs Offshore Company in the UAE
The right UAE company structure depends on your business activity, target market, ownership requirements, office and visa needs, banking plans, and how you intend to operate.
| Factor | Free Zone | Mainland | Offshore |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ownership | 100% foreign ownership is available, subject to the selected free zone and applicable rules. | 100% foreign ownership is available for many activities, subject to applicable rules. | 100% foreign ownership is generally available, subject to the relevant jurisdiction and regulations. |
| Licensing Authority | Relevant free zone authority. | Relevant emirate licensing authority. | Relevant offshore/registered agent or jurisdiction authority. |
| Business Activities | Activities depend on the selected free zone and licence type. | Activities depend on the mainland licensing authority and approved activity. | Generally suited to holding, asset ownership and international business purposes, depending on the jurisdiction. |
| UAE Market Access | Depends on the activity, structure and applicable rules. | Generally designed for direct mainland operations. | Not generally intended for operating a local UAE business. |
| Office Requirements | Vary by free zone and licence package. | Depend on the activity and licensing requirements. | Usually different from operating-company office requirements and depend on the jurisdiction. |
| Visa Eligibility | Depends on the licence, package and office arrangement. | Depends on the licence, office and applicable requirements. | Generally not designed for UAE residence visas. |
| Corporate Banking | Bank approval required. | Bank approval required. | Bank approval required and depends on the business profile, jurisdiction and banking requirements. |
| Tax & Compliance | Subject to UAE Corporate Tax and applicable free zone conditions. | Subject to UAE Corporate Tax and applicable mainland rules. | Tax and compliance treatment depends on the jurisdiction, structure and UAE tax rules where applicable. |
| Best Suited For | Startups, consultants, service businesses, trading, e-commerce and businesses seeking a UAE free zone setup. | Businesses that need direct UAE mainland operations and broader local market access. | Holding structures, international business arrangements and specific asset or investment purposes. |
Which UAE Company Structure Is Right for You?
A Free Zone May Suit You
A free zone may suit you if you want a UAE business with flexible licensing options, 100% foreign ownership, and a structure built around a specific free zone.
Mainland May Be More Suitable
Mainland may be more suitable if your business needs to operate directly in the UAE mainland market, depending on your activity and licensing requirements.
Offshore May Suit Specific Purposes
Offshore may suit specific international, holding, or asset-related purposes where local UAE operations or residence visas are not the primary objective.
The right choice depends on your business activity, target customers, UAE market access, visa requirements, office needs, banking plans, and long-term goals. We compare the available structures and help you choose the most suitable option before you incorporate.
Corporate Banking for Your Free Zone Company
Setting up a company and opening a corporate bank account are two separate processes. Banks independently assess each application based on their KYC, AML and internal risk requirements.
Banks typically review:
- Business activity
- Source of funds
- Business model
- Financial information
- Shareholder and UBO profile
- Expected transaction volume
- Contracts and invoices
- Supporting corporate documents
- UAE residency status
- Customer and supplier locations
- Company website and business presence
Each bank makes its own decision. We help you prepare a complete bank file and introduce you to banks that suit your business profile.
Documents Required for Free Zone Business Setup
Individual Shareholders
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photograph where required
- Proof of address where required
- UAE entry or visa documents where applicable
- Business activity information
- Shareholder information
Corporate Shareholders
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Certificate of Good Standing where applicable
- Board or shareholder resolution
- UBO and shareholder information
- Other corporate documents requested by the authority
Some documents may require attestation, notarisation or additional verification depending on the jurisdiction and free zone.
Visa and Office Requirements
Visa eligibility and office requirements vary between free zones and packages.
Visa Options
Depending on the selected structure and package, businesses may apply for:
- Investor or partner visas
- Employee visas
- Other applicable UAE residence options
The number of available visas may depend on factors such as the free zone package, office arrangement and applicable authority requirements.
Office Options
Depending on the free zone, businesses may have options such as:
- Flexi-desk
- Shared office
- Dedicated office
- Private office
- Warehouse or specialised premises
Not every free zone offers the same options, so office requirements should be checked before selecting your licence package.
Corporate Tax and VAT for UAE Free Zone Businesses
Under the UAE Corporate Tax framework, a Qualifying Free Zone Person may benefit from a 0% Corporate Tax rate on qualifying income, subject to the applicable conditions and requirements. Income that does not qualify may be subject to the applicable Corporate Tax rules and rates.
Businesses should therefore consider:
- Whether they qualify as a Qualifying Free Zone Person
- The nature of their income
- Qualifying and non-qualifying activities
- Accounting records
- Corporate Tax registration and filing obligations
- Applicable VAT registration requirements
- Ongoing compliance
Exactitude can assist with accounting & bookkeeping and tax-related compliance support based on your business requirements.
Forgetting Renewal and Compliance
Licence renewal, accounting, tax filings, visa renewals and other obligations should be included in your long-term business plan.
Choosing a Free Zone Only Because It Is Cheap
A low licence fee may not reflect your complete setup and renewal costs.
Choosing the Wrong Business Activity
Your licence activity should accurately reflect the business you intend to operate.
Ignoring Visa Requirements
If you need employee or investor visas, check the visa allocation and office requirements before selecting your package.
Not Planning for Corporate Banking
Company formation does not automatically result in bank account approval. Prepare your business and banking profile in advance.
Ignoring Office Requirements
Some activities or visa requirements may involve specific office arrangements.
Assuming a Free Zone Company Pays No Corporate Tax
Corporate Tax treatment depends on the applicable UAE tax rules and whether the company meets the conditions for qualifying treatment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Up a Free Zone Business
Free zone business setup is only the beginning. After incorporation, your company may have ongoing responsibilities such as:
- Trade licence renewal
- Office or lease renewal where applicable
- Visa renewal
- Accounting and bookkeeping
- VAT compliance where applicable
- Corporate Tax compliance
- Financial statements or audit requirements where applicable
- Updating corporate information when required
- Maintaining proper business records
Exactitude can continue supporting your business after formation through accounting, bookkeeping, banking and compliance-related services.
Renewal and Ongoing Compliance
Why Choose Exactitude Business Services
- Expert Free Zone Consultation We assess your business requirements and compare suitable free zone options.
- Transparent Process Your scope, services and applicable fees are explained before the work begins.
- End-to-End Formation Support From activity selection and application preparation to licence issuance and post-formation support.
- Corporate Banking Expertise We do more than company formation. We can help you prepare your banking file and connect you with suitable UAE banking options.
- Accounting & Compliance Support Our support can continue after incorporation through accounting, bookkeeping and tax-related compliance services.
Google Reviews
Afonso Pinto
CEO and Founder of ENRG Group
I find this company online and couldn’t be happier that I did. Every work they do is very professional and all cost is justified and clear. Thank you for doing all possible and impossible to keep our companies in regulations with the federal law of UAE and make our life so much easier.
Mohammad Mohsen
I dont have words to say. All I can say is Hashim Is man of his words. He and his team delivers what they say. He is truly genuine and professional company. Someone you can trust and assure that if they have taken your job, they will definitely fullfil it and deliver it. Amazing experience working with this company and with Mr. Hashim
Amrita Sethi
Founder of amrita sethi arts
I cannot recommend Exactitude Business Services highly enough. From company setup and tax advice to corporate bank account opening, the entire process was handled with exceptional professionalism, speed, and efficiency. What impressed me most was their ability to think outside the box and find practical solutions where others only saw obstacles.
Free Zones We Work With
We help clients set up companies in UAE free zones, including IFZA, DMCC, DIFC, Meydan Free Zone, Dubai South, RAKEZ, SHAMS, DTEC, Ajman Free Zone and Ajman Nuventure.
Tell us your business activity, target market, visa requirements and budget. We can help you compare suitable options and plan your company formation, corporate banking and ongoing compliance requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Is Exactitude a free zone authority or government office?
No. Exactitude Business Services is a private business consultancy. We assist clients with free zone selection, company formation, banking introductions, accounting, and related business services. The selected free zone authority issues the company licence.
Which free zone is best for my business?
It depends on your activity, visa needs and budget. We compare options such as IFZA, Meydan Free Zone, RAKEZ, SHAMS, Ajman Nuventure and Dubai South and recommend the best fit in your free consultation.
How long does it take to set up a Free zone company in Dubai?
The timeline varies by free zone, business activity, document readiness, and any required approvals. Some straightforward applications can be completed within a few working days, while activities requiring additional approvals may take longer.
Can I open a bank account for my Free zone company?
Yes, a free zone company can apply for a corporate bank account. However, bank approval is a separate process and each bank independently assesses the company, shareholders, business model and supporting documents.
What is the cost of a Free zone business setup?
Costs depend on the free zone, licence type, activity, number of visas and office arrangement. We give you an itemised quote for your chosen free zone after a free consultation.
Do I need to be in the UAE to start a Free zone company?
Company registration can usually be completed remotely with our support. If you apply for a UAE residence visa, you will need to be in the UAE for the medical test and Emirates ID biometrics.
Can a free zone company do business in the UAE mainland?
This depends on the business activity, structure and applicable regulations. Mainland operations and local market access should be reviewed before choosing a free zone structure.
How many visas can I get with a free zone company?
Visa eligibility depends on the selected free zone, licence package, office arrangement and applicable authority requirements. It is important to confirm the available allocation before purchasing a package.
Does a free zone company pay Corporate Tax?
A qualifying Free Zone Person may benefit from a 0% Corporate Tax rate on qualifying income, subject to the applicable UAE Corporate Tax conditions. Free zone status does not automatically make all company income subject to a 0% rate.
Can Exactitude help after company formation?
Yes. In addition to formation support, Exactitude can assist with corporate banking introductions, accounting, bookkeeping and tax-related compliance support based on your business requirements.