Dubai has become one of the world’s most attractive business hubs, and one of the biggest reasons is its Free Zones. Offering 100% foreign ownership, 0% corporate tax, full profit repatriation, and customs duty exemptions, Free Zones provide entrepreneurs with a simplified way to launch and grow their businesses.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Dubai Free Zone company setup in 2025 — from costs and licenses to registration steps and the best Free Zones for your industry.

What is a Dubai Free Zone?

A Free Zone (also called a Free Trade Zone) is a designated business area in Dubai that offers special tax, customs, and ownership benefits to foreign investors. Currently, there are more than 40 Free Zones in Dubai, each catering to specific industries such as trading, logistics, finance, media, technology, and e-commerce.

Benefits of Setting Up a Business in a Dubai Free Zone

100% Foreign Ownership & Profit Repatriation

Investors can enjoy full ownership of their business without needing a local sponsor and can repatriate 100% of profits and capital abroad.

0% Corporate & Income Tax

Most Free Zones provide 0% corporate and income tax, making them ideal for startups, SMEs, and international businesses.

Customs Duty Exemption & Trading Advantages

Goods imported, manufactured, or re-exported within Free Zones are exempt from customs duties.

Easy Visa & Immigration Process

Free Zone companies can sponsor residence visas for investors, employees, and dependents, making relocation smooth.

Cost-Effective Offices & Flexi-Desk Options

Startups can choose flexi-desk packages or virtual offices, while larger firms can lease warehouses, retail spaces, or build headquarters.

Types of Companies in Dubai Free Zones

Free Zone Establishment (FZE)

Single shareholder company with limited liability.

Free Zone Company (FZCO/FZC)

Multi-shareholder structure (2–5 partners).

Branch Office of a Foreign or Local Company

Allows an existing company to expand operations into Dubai.

Types of Licenses Available in Dubai Free Zones

General Trading License – Multiple product trading.
Commercial/Trading License – Import/export of specific goods.
Service/Consultancy License – Professional services (law, accounting, consulting).
Industrial/Manufacturing License – Manufacturing & exporting.
E-Commerce License – Online businesses & digital platforms.
Freelance Permit – For individuals in IT, media, and consulting.
Warehousing License – For logistics, storage, and distribution.

Step-by-Step Free Zone Company Registration Process

Step 1: Choose Legal Entity

Decide whether to form an FZE, FZCO, or branch office.

Step 2: Select Trade Name

Reserve your business name through the Free Zone authority.

Step 3: Apply for Business License

Select the right license based on your activity.

Step 4: Choose Office Space or Flexi-Desk

Select from virtual office packages, flexi-desks, or warehouses.

Step 5: Submit Documents & Get Approvals

Provide passport copies, MOA, business plan, and relevant documents.

Step 6: Business Registration & License Issuance

Once approved, you’ll receive your Free Zone business license within 2–4 weeks.

Documents Required for Free Zone Company Setup

Application form & business plan
Passport copies of shareholders & managers
Trade name reservation certificate
MOA & AOA (attested)
Board resolution (for branches)
Bank reference letter & recent bank statements
Educational/professional certificate (for consultancy license)

Free Zone Company Setup Costs in Dubai 2025

Cheapest Free Zones in Dubai

IFZA – Popular for cost-effective setup.
Meydan Free Zone – Fast digital setup for SMEs.
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone – Affordable packages for startups.

Free Zone License Cost Breakdown

Business license: AED 12,000 – AED 50,000 (depending on activity).
Flexi-desk office: AED 10,000 – AED 15,000.
Warehouse lease (JAFZA/DAFZA): From AED 25,000 annually.

Additional Costs

Investor visa: AED 3,500 – AED 5,000.
Corporate bank account opening fees.
MOA notarization & legal translations.

Popular Dubai Free Zones for Company Setup

DMCC – Best for trading, gold, and commodities.
IFZA – Low-cost setup for SMEs & startups.
JAFZA – Ideal for logistics & shipping.
DIFC – For finance, banking & fintech.
Meydan Free Zone – Digital, fast setup for entrepreneurs.
DAFZA – Best for aviation & logistics.
Dubai Internet City & Media City – IT, media & tech companies.
Dubai South (DWC) – Logistics, aviation & e-commerce hub.

Free Zone vs Mainland Company Setup in Dubai

Free Zone: 100% foreign ownership, tax-free, but limited to operating within Free Zones and outside UAE mainland.
Mainland: Can trade anywhere in UAE, requires local sponsor (except for certain activities under new laws).

Investor Visa & Residence Benefits in Dubai Free Zones

Free Zone companies can issue residence visas to investors and employees. Investors may also qualify for Golden Visa eligibility depending on investment scale.

Banking & Financial Setup in Free Zones

Once registered, companies can open corporate bank accounts in UAE with international banks, easing global trade and finance.

Compliance & Legal Requirements for Free Zone Companies

Some Free Zones require annual audits, MOA signing, and renewal of trade licenses. Ensuring compliance avoids penalties.

Risks of Choosing the Wrong Free Zone

Higher setup costs if you pick a Free Zone not aligned with your activity.
Restrictions on trading outside your Free Zone.
Visa quotas vary between Free Zones.

Why Choose Our Professional Services for Free Zone Setup?

Setting up a company in Dubai Free Zone can be complex if you are unfamiliar with regulations. By applying through Dubai E Visa Online, you benefit from: