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Company Formation
Dubai Free Zone

Explore boundless opportunities with A&A Associate LLC’s Dubai Freezone company formation

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Empowering
Businesses Since

2010

Start your own businessin a Dubai Free Zone

Looking for overall business setup in Dubai, UAE ? See our Business Setup in Dubai
page.

advantages of UAE freezone company formation

Dubai Freezone
Company Formation

Build your business with full control and zero taxes in Dubai

Dubai free zones are designated economic areas where foreign investors can establish companies with 100% ownership, tax advantages, and streamlined regulatory processes. In 2026–2027, these zones remain one of the most attractive entry points for businesses targeting the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. There are no foreign ownership restrictions in Dubai free zones, allowing international investors to fully own their businesses. It is important to note that a free zone company is different from an offshore company; offshore companies are separate legal entities with distinct regulatory frameworks and requirements in the UAE.

There are over 20 UAE free zones in Dubai alone and more than 45 across the UAE, each governed by its own independent free zone authority with distinct rules, pricing, and sector focus. Each Free Zone Authority is responsible for issuing operating licences and regulating business activities within its jurisdiction. Whether you’re a solo consultant, e-commerce trader, or industrial manufacturer, there’s a zone designed for your business needs.

Ready to get started? Request a free consultation or cost estimate for your Dubai free zone company formation today.

Why Choose a Dubai Free Zone for Company Formation?

At a high level, Dubai offers three main jurisdictions for company setup: free zone, mainland, and offshore. Free zones provide 100% foreign ownership without a local partner, corporate tax advantages, and independent regulation. Mainland companies can trade freely across the UAE but historically required local sponsorship (though recent reforms have relaxed this for many sectors). Offshore structures, while similar in some respects to free zone companies, are distinct entities governed by different regulations and legal frameworks. Offshore companies are primarily used for holding assets or international business and cannot conduct business within the UAE, unlike free zone companies which can operate within their designated zones.

From a strategic location perspective, Dubai free zones offer unmatched infrastructure. Jebel Ali Port handles over 15 million containers annually. Al Maktoum International Airport is expanding as a global cargo hub. World class infrastructure extends to digital systems, with many zones now supporting fully remote incorporation and digital license issuance.

Free zones support businesses of all sizes. Start-ups can begin with a flexi-desk and one visa, scaling to dedicated office space as they grow. Multinationals can secure warehouse space, industrial facilities, and large visa quotas to support regional operations.

Benefits of Dubai freezone company setup

Starting a business in UAE? We can help you set up in a Freezone.

100% control of
your business

Get access to a global market

Company setup can take as
little as 3 days

Complete confidentiality
& privacy assured

Physical presence is not required to
set up your company

Business-friendly Tax Regimes

Working with a business setup advisor who knows the system inside-out can save you weeks of back-and-forth with relevant authorities. Here’s what A&A Associate LLC brings to your free zone company formation.

Value-add services we provide:

  • Free initial consultation to understand your business goals and recommend suitable zones

  • Multilingual advisors who can communicate in English, Arabic, and other major languages

  • Feasibility checks on business activities before you commit to a zone

  • Side-by-side comparison of 5–7 major Dubai free zones (DMCCJAFZAMeydan Free ZoneIFZA, DAFZA, DIC, DMC) based on your sector and budget

We maintain close coordination with each free zone authority and UAE government agencies to fast-track approvals, company name reservation, and immigration processes. When issues arise name rejections, activity mismatches, document deficiencies we resolve them before they become delays.

Post-setup support:

Your company setup is just the beginning. We also handle:

Types of Licenses for Dubai Free Zone

Choosing the right trade license is the most important step for your free zone company.

Many free zones allow multiple activities under a single license up to three activity groups in some cases which minimizes costs for diversified operations. However, unrelated activities (e.g., trading and media production) may require separate licenses depending on the zone.

It is essential to obtain all necessary licenses to ensure legal compliance and operational readiness within the chosen free zone.

A&A Associate LLC reviews your intended activities against each free zone’s official activity list before submission. This prevents future amendment costs and ensures your license covers everything you plan to do.

To summarize, forming a company in a Dubai Free Zone involves selecting a business activity, choosing a Free Zone, selecting a legal structure, registering a trade name, obtaining initial approval, leasing office space, and paying fees to receive the license.

How to start a business in Dubai Free Zone

Most straightforward free zone setups can be completed in 5–10 working days, depending on approvals and visa requirements. Industrial or regulated activities may take longer.

Your first decision is selecting a free zone aligned with your business model. This choice affects your costs, visa quota, credibility with banks, and access to sector-specific infrastructure.

We can help you pick between a Free Zone Establishment (FZE), Free Zone Company (FZCO), a Free Zone LLC (FZ LLC), or a Free Zone branch company for your business.

Applying for a trade license in a Dubai free zone can be streamlined by working with our expert consultants. We will help you get initial approval, and prepare all the documents you need for your application.

After you get your license, your visa will be processed by the authorities. We can even help you get visas for employees and/or any dependents you might have.

After license issuance, your new company can apply for a UAE corporate bank account with local or international banks operating in Dubai.

A&A Associate LLC adds value at every stage: activity guidance, documentation review, government liaison, and problem-solving when names or activities are rejected. Our support team has handled thousands of setups and knows how to navigate exceptions.

Costs of Company Formation in Dubai Free Zones

Exact costs vary by free zone, activity, visa requirement, and office type. However, here are realistic 2026 price ranges to help you budget.

Package pricing examples:

  • Basic service/consultancy packages (no visa): AED 12,000 – 18,000 per year

  • Packages with 1–3 visas: AED 20,000 – 35,000+ per year

  • Industrial/warehouse setups: AED 50,000+ depending on space requirements

A&A Associate LLC provides a transparent, itemized cost breakdown before engagement. We can often secure promotional packages or discounts active in 2026–2027, potentially reducing your total setup cost by 15–20%.

Corporate Tax, VAT, and Compliance for Dubai Free Zone Companies

UAE Corporate Tax took effect for financial years starting on or after 1 June 2023. Understanding how this affects your free zone business is essential for planning.

Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) status:

Free zone companies can qualify for 0% corporate tax on qualifying income if they meet specific conditions:

  • Maintain adequate substance in the UAE (office space, employees, expenditure)

  • Derive qualifying income (from free zone activities, international transactions, or transactions with other free zone entities)

  • Not elect to be subject to regular corporate tax

  • Meet de minimis thresholds for non-qualifying revenue

Non-qualifying income may be taxed at 9%. A&A Associate LLC provides tax advisory to help structure operations for optimal compliance and tax efficiency.

VAT rules:

  • Standard VAT rate: 5%

  • Mandatory registration threshold: AED 375,000 in taxable supplies

  • Free zone to free zone transfers of goods may qualify for 0% VAT

  • Exports outside GCC are typically zero-rated

Free zone companies must maintain proper invoicing and accounting records regardless of whether they’re VAT-registered.

A&A Associate LLC handles ongoing compliance so you can focus on running your free zone business.

Freezone Locations

Starting a business in Dubai. We can help you set up in a Free Zone, on Mainland or Offshore.

Your Gateway to Success: A&A Associate LLC

Discovery the potential of Dubai’s Free Zones, Mainland, and Offshore regions with our expert guidance in starting and expanding your Dubai free zone company setup.

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We work closely
with all Government Agencies

Starting a business in Dubai Free Zone ? We can help you to set up your Business.

Have a question?
Get in touch today

Our experts are always available to answer your queries.
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Freezone license FAQ

A Freezone license in Dubai allows companies to operate within a designated economic zone, offering benefits like 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified import/export procedures.

Business setup in uae free zone depends on your needs for your business. You could set up your company as a Sole Establishment (this is the same as a Sole Proprietorship), as a Limited Liability Partnership, a Limited Liability Company, a Private Limited Company, or a Professional Services Company.

You also have the option of setting up your company on the mainland, in a free zone (only limited liability company structures are permitted here), or offshore.

Enterprises operating in the UAE Freezones that trade in tangible items are only permitted to do so worldwide and with other Freezone businesses, or they must partner with a third-party distributor (local service agent) to conduct business with the mainland.

Enterprises operating in the UAE Freezones that trade in tangible items are only permitted to do so worldwide and with other Freezone businesses, or they must partner with a third-party distributor (local service agent) to conduct business with the mainland.

A&A Associate LLC offers comprehensive services, guiding you through the entire process of obtaining a Freezone license in Dubai, from initial consultation to paperwork submission and license issuance.

Freezone licenses offer advantages like full foreign ownership, no personal or corporate taxes, 100% repatriation of capital and profits, and streamlined administrative processes.

Most Freezones require a physical office space. A&A Associate LLC can help you find suitable office options that meet the Freezone’s requirements.

The timeframe varies depending on the chosen free zone and the type of license. However, the process can usually be completed within a few weeks to a couple of months.

Yes, A&A Associate LLC can facilitate the visa application process for you and your employees, helping you navigate the requirements set by the relevant authorities.

Freezone license is suitable for a wide range of industries, including trading, manufacturing, technology, finance, consulting, and more.

To get started, simply reach out to A&A Associate LLC via our website or contact information. We will guide you through the initial steps, provide necessary information, and customize our services to your business setup in Dubai free zone needs.

There are around 30 free zones in Dubai. The costs of setting up a company vary by free zone. This has to do with the fact there can be up to 50 shareholders in a company, and they would all be eligible for a visa. The visa application fees have to be paid separately for each individual, including employees for whom work visas are applied. And then there are the office rental costs – the rental charges are not uniform across free zones. You also have the option to choose anything from single desk in a co-working space to a large enclosed office, so charges apply accordingly.

There are over 46 free zones in the UAE, specializing in sectors like technology, manufacturing, media, and finance. Working with an expert in business setup in Dubai free zone can help you choose the best free zone for you.

There is no real “best free zone” in the UAE but popular options include DMCC, JAFZA, DIFC, and Meydan Free Zone. A freezone business setup Dubai company will be able to guide your decision.

The free zone visa offers complete business ownership, complete repatriation of profits, unrestricted trade access to international markets and no custom duties. Anyone considering business setup in Dubai free zone should consult with a professional to make the process easier.

Businesses can only trade within the free zone and internationally, the free zone authority handles the licensing and regulatory requirements, and Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZP) don’t have to pay corporate tax.

Free zone authorities issue work permits to employees. These permits are not under MOHRE jurisdiction. You can always consult with an expert in company formation in Dubai free zone, like the ones at A&A Associate.

Free zone company formation in Dubai begins by picking a free zone, deciding on a business activity and name, applying for a license, and renting an office. You should also open a business bank account and apply for a visa after your license is approved.

A Dubai free zone license costs range between AED 4,000 to AED 50,000 depending on the location of the free zone and type of license.

Free zone companies can only have a registered address outside their designated free zone if they have a special permit from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

If your free zone business participates in a qualifying activity, they will be exempt from corporate tax as a Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP).

Setting up a company in a Dubai free zone can take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks. A&A Associate offers expert services in business setup in Dubai free zone.

You will need to open a separate corporate bank account for your free zone business. You can only do this after you get your trade license.

Businesses set up in free zones can own property in Dubai but they are subject to certain limitations. Asking a local business consultant can help you understand the legal requirements.

Dubai free zone business setup have certain ongoing obligations, including:
  • Annual Renewal: Renew your business license annually with the Freezone authority.
  • Financial Reporting: Submit audited financial statements to the Freezone authority.
  • Visa Processing: If required, process employee visas and maintain appropriate visa quotas.
  • Compliance: Adhere to the rules and regulations of the Freezone, including any changes in laws that may impact your business activity.
  • Lease Renewal: Ensure the renewal of your office space lease agreement.
  • Customs Regulations: Follow customs and import/export regulations if engaged in international trade.