Omar H.
Startup Founder
“From licence selection to banking support, Takween gave us a clear path and helped us avoid delays we would have hit on our own.”
Free Zone Company Setup in Dubai - From AED 4,888 | 100% Foreign Ownership
Set up your free zone company in Dubai with 100% foreign ownership, 0% corporate and personal income tax on qualifying income, full profit repatriation, no local sponsor, and fast licensing. Whether you're registering an FZE, FZC, or foreign branch, free zone company setup in Dubai is the fastest way to UAE business.
Takween Advisory handles everything from selecting your free zone and activity to getting your trade license, UAE residence visa, and corporate bank account with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.
500+ Businesses Advised
10+ Years of UAE Market Experience
Free Zone Setup Across Key UAE Jurisdictions
Compliance-Focused Advisory
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Which free zone are you leaning toward?
Dubai has many free zones, each tuned to certain activities. Pick one or let us match you.
Why Choose Dubai for Free Zone Company Formation?
Dubai is consistently ranked as the Middle East's top destination for free zone company formation - driven by its world-class infrastructure, zero-tax environment, and a government that actively supports entrepreneurship. Strategically located between Europe, Asia, and Africa, Dubai gives founders, SMEs, and international investors access to over 2 billion consumers within a 4-hour flight radius - with a stable currency pegged to the US dollar, a multicultural workforce of over 200 nationalities, and a legal framework built for international commerce.
- 100% foreign ownership - no local sponsor required
- 0% personal income tax and 0% corporate tax on qualifying free zone income
- Full profit repatriation with no currency restrictions
- Import and export duty exemptions
- Strong intellectual property protection laws
- UAE residence visa for owners, directors, and employees processed alongside registration
How to Set Up a Free Zone Company in Dubai
Setting up a free zone company in Dubai can be completed in as little as 3-5 working days. Takween Advisory manages the entire process - from selecting the right free zone authority to receiving your trade license and UAE residence visa.
- Choose Your Business Activity – Select your sector from 2,000+ licensed activities including trading, consulting, technology, media, logistics, and e-commerce.
- Select Your Free Zone – With 40+ active free zones in Dubai, we help you choose the right jurisdiction based on your activity, visa requirements, and budget.
- Choose Your Legal Entity and License Type – Register as a Free Zone Establishment (FZE), Free Zone Company (FZC), or branch of a foreign company, with a trading, service, or industrial license.
- Submit Your Documents – Provide passport copies, business plan, and any additional documents required by your chosen free zone authority.
- Register and Secure Your Workspace – Choose from a flexi-desk, shared office, virtual office, or dedicated physical space based on your visa requirements.
- Receive Your Trade License and Apply for Visas – Once approved, your trade license is issued and you can apply for UAE residence visas and open your corporate bank account.
Setup Packages
Free Zone Company Setup Package Options in Dubai
Fixed-Price Packages. No Hidden Fees. Clear Scope Before You Commit.
Free Zone Company Setup
From
4,888AED
A practical entry package for founders who want to launch quickly in a UAE free zone.
Free Zone company license
Multiple business activities permitted
Multiple shareholders supported
Full legal documentation
Guided, expedited process
Setup + One Visa
Limited-Time Pricing
10,800AED
For founders who need company setup with one visa included from day one.
Unlimited shareholders
Multiple business activities permitted
Streamlined setup process
Ideal for startups, founders, and growing businesses
One visa included
Setup + Two Visas
Designated Zone
Fixed Package
17,181AED
A complete bundle covering company registration in a designated zone with two visas processed end-to-end.
Multiple business activities permitted
Up to 10 shareholders supported
All legal company documentation
Business license, lease agreement, and supporting paperwork
End-to-end visa processing, including change of status
TESTIMONIALS
What Clients Say About Takween Advisory
Google
Reviews5.0 rating based on Google reviews
Mariam A.
SME Owner
“Their team made the compliance side simple. We always knew what was next, what was required, and how to stay on schedule.”
James T.
Consultancy Director
“Takween handled our setup with speed and precision. The communication was consistent, and every step felt organized and well managed.”
Leila R.
International Investor
“What stood out was the practical guidance. They did not just explain options, they recommended the structure that actually fit our goals.”
Ana Maria C.
Business Owner
“Takween made the setup process feel structured from day one. Every document, approval, and next step was handled with clarity.”
Luka P.
Founder
“What I valued most was how fast the team moved. They helped us avoid delays and kept the launch timeline under control.”
Mark D.
Managing Partner
“Their advice was practical, not generic. We got a setup route that fit our goals and the execution was smooth throughout.”
Mila S.
Operations Lead
“The communication was consistent and precise. We always knew what was pending, what was approved, and what came next.”
Peter N.
International Consultant
“Takween handled the process with confidence and speed. It saved us time internally and gave us much more certainty.”
Sofia A.
Investor
“They explained the tradeoffs clearly and helped us choose the right structure without wasting time on the wrong options.”
Nadia R.
E-commerce Founder
“The process felt organized from start to finish. Takween helped us launch quickly while keeping the compliance side under control.”
Karim S.
SME Director
“We came in with a lot of uncertainty and left with a clear plan. The team was responsive, practical, and easy to work with.”
WHAT IS INCLUDED
What your free-zone formation covers
Zone-to-activity matching
We pair your activity with the authority that licenses it best, because a tech build belongs in a different zone than commodities trading, and the wrong zone caps both activities and visas.
Entity-type selection
We settle whether you incorporate as a single-shareholder FZE or a multi-shareholder FZ-LLC, a choice that fixes how shares can later be transferred or new partners admitted.
Registration with the authority
Your application is filed directly with the free-zone authority that governs the company, a registrar separate from the federal Commercial Companies Law that binds mainland firms.
Trade licence and establishment card
The licence and establishment card are issued together so the company can both contract and begin its immigration file from day one.
Flexi-desk and quota setting
A flexi-desk or dedicated unit is arranged to match the number of visas you need, since the workspace tier is what releases your visa allocation.
Investor visa and banking start
Entry permit, medical, Emirates ID, and stamping are run for the shareholder, and a corporate banking introduction is opened on the fresh licence.
HOW IT WORKS
From zone shortlist to an issued licence
Free-zone incorporation is fast because one authority owns the whole process, so the work is choosing that authority well and feeding it a clean file rather than chasing several departments.
01
Activity and free-zone shortlist
We narrow the candidate zones to those whose licence list, visa terms, and fee floor actually fit your model and budget.
02
Name and structure lodgement
A compliant name is reserved with the authority and the FZE or FZ-LLC form is registered against your shareholder count.
03
Submission to the authority
Incorporation forms and shareholder evidence are submitted in the authority's template so the file passes review without rework.
04
Trade licence release
The trade licence and establishment card are released, usually within three to five working days of a complete submission.
05
Residency processing
The investor's entry permit, medical fitness, Emirates ID, and visa stamping are handled in sequence.
06
Banking handover
We introduce you to a UAE bank and prepare the account file so trading can begin on a funded account.
DOCUMENTATION
What the authority needs from you
Six-month-valid passports
A passport valid for at least six months is required for every shareholder and director the company will register.
Residence proof
A utility bill or bank statement dated within three months confirms each applicant's home address for the authority's records.
Photograph and existing UAE status
A white-background photograph, plus any current UAE residence visa or Emirates ID, completes the personal file where applicable.
Reference or profile
Certain zones ask for a bank or professional reference letter, or a short CV, before they approve the application.
Corporate shareholder pack
Where a company holds the shares, its incorporation certificate, constitution, board resolution, good-standing certificate, and UBO declaration are gathered and attested.
Activity-specific business plan
Regulated or specialised activities trigger a business-plan requirement, which we prepare to the authority's expectations.
TIMELINES AND COST DRIVERS
Timing, the entry price, and the running cost
How quickly a licence issues
Most free-zone licences are issued within three to five working days once the file is complete, with regulated activities the main reason a particular zone runs longer.
- Name and structure approval
- Document review
- Licence and establishment card
What the AED 4,888 starting figure buys
Packages open from AED 4,888 for a licence only, and the figure climbs as you add a workspace tier and visas — a flexi-desk typically carrying one to three, while some IFZA packages reach six.
- Licence-only entry from AED 4,888
- Workspace tier you select
- Visa count tied to that tier
What the yearly renewal involves
The licence renews annually from around AED 4,500, and missing the date risks penalties and visa status, which is why we flag the renewal sixty days ahead.
- Licence renewal from AED 4,500
- Workspace package renewal
- Sixty-day renewal reminder
WHAT WE COVER
Where our free-zone support extends
Mainland-sales bridging
Because a free-zone company cannot sell into the mainland directly, we set up the approved distributor or a mainland branch when your customers sit outside the zone.
Visa-quota forecasting
We size the workspace tier against your hiring plan so the visa quota grows with the team instead of forcing an early upgrade.
Qualifying-income alignment
We help you keep activities inside the qualifying free-zone-person rules so the company's corporate-tax position stays favourable.
Remote-completion options
We arrange document signing abroad and flag only the residency steps — medical and Emirates ID — that genuinely require you in the UAE.
Top Free Zones in Dubai - Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing the right free zone is one of the most important decisions in your freezone company setup journey. Each free zone in Dubai is governed by its own Free Zone Authority (FZA), operates under a distinct regulatory framework, and is designed to serve specific industries and business activities. The wrong choice can restrict your permitted business activities, limit your visa allocation, or result in significantly higher long-term operating costs.
At Takween Advisory, we assess your business model, target market, visa requirements, and budget - then recommend the most suitable free zone for your specific goals. Whether you are looking to complete a freezone business setup in Dubai, register a UAE free zone company, or set up a free zone company in UAE for international operations, Dubai currently offers more than 30 active free zones - each with its own licensing structure, office solutions, and fee schedule.
Here are the most widely used free zones in Dubai and the business types they best serve:
| Free Zone | Starting Cost | Best For | Setup Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) | From AED 4,888 | SMEs, consulting, trading, e-commerce, technology | 3-5 working days |
| Meydan Free Zone (MFZ) | From AED 5,500 | Professional services, e-commerce, media, consulting | 3-5 working days |
| Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO / DSOA) | From AED 5,750 | Technology, IT, software, electronics, engineering | 5-8 working days |
| DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) | From AED 14,000 | Commodities trading, crypto, precious metals, financial services | 7-10 working days |
| DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) | From AED 12,000 | Banking, financial services, legal, asset management | 10-15 working days |
| DAFZA (Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority) | On request | Aviation, aerospace, logistics, trading | 5-7 working days |
| Dubai South (DWC / Dubai World Central) | On request | Logistics, supply chain, aviation, light manufacturing | 5-8 working days |
| Dubai Internet City (DIC) | On request | ICT, telecommunications, technology companies | 5-7 working days |
The figures above are indicative starting costs for freezone company setup in Dubai and may vary based on your business activity, legal structure, visa requirements, and applicable Free Zone Authority fees. The cost of free zone company formation in Dubai depends on your chosen zone, number of activities, and visa requirements - Takween Advisory will provide a complete, transparent breakdown during your free consultation with no hidden charges.
Not sure which free zone is right for your business? Our consultants compare the top recommended options for your Dubai freezone setup and present you with a clear side-by-side recommendation before you commit. We cover all free zone company requirements in Dubai - from free zone license type and office solution to visa allocation and government fees.
Free Zone Company Legal Structures in Dubai
When completing a freezone company registration in Dubai, you must select a legal entity type that matches your ownership structure and operational requirements. Free zone entities in UAE are governed by their respective Free Zone Authority rather than the UAE Commercial Companies Law - giving them a distinct regulatory framework with greater flexibility and faster processing timelines compared to mainland structures.
There are four main legal structures available for setting up free zone companies in Dubai:
Free Zone Establishment (FZE) - A limited liability entity with a single shareholder. This is the most common structure for solo founders, individual investors, and independent consultants who want full ownership and control. An FZE is recognised as an independent legal entity separate from its owner.
Free Zone Company (FZ-LLC / FZC) - A limited liability entity with two or more shareholders. Shareholders can be individual persons or corporate entities. This structure is best suited for business partnerships, joint ventures, and companies with multiple founding members or co-investors.
Branch of a Foreign Company - An extension of an existing overseas parent company established within a Dubai free zone. The branch operates under the parent company's name and business activities, without forming a separate legal entity. The parent company retains full liability for the branch's operations.
Branch of a UAE Company - An existing UAE-registered mainland or free zone company can open a branch office within a free zone to expand its operational footprint, while retaining its original company registration and structure.
Both FZE and FZC structures offer identical benefits of a UAE free zone company - 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax on qualifying income, and full profit repatriation. The choice between them depends entirely on your ownership structure. A manager must be appointed for both entity types and must be a UAE resident or intend to take up UAE residency. Understanding these structures is a key part of any freezone incorporation in Dubai.
Free Zone vs Mainland - Which Structure Is Right for Your Business?
The most common question we receive from new investors is whether to choose a freezone business setup in Dubai or a mainland company. Both structures now permit 100% foreign ownership for most business activities. The right choice depends on your customers, your target market, your operational requirements, and your long-term growth plans in the UAE.
A Dubai free zone company is governed by the Free Zone Authority and operates as an independent legal entity within its designated zone. A mainland company is registered with the Department of Economic Development (DED) and can operate freely throughout the UAE without any territorial restrictions.
| Comparison Factor | Free Zone Company | Mainland Company (LLC) |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Ownership | 100% permitted | 100% permitted for most activities |
| UAE Mainland Trading | Via approved distributor or separate mainland branch only | Direct access - no restrictions |
| Government Contracts & Tenders | Not eligible | Fully eligible |
| Office Requirement | Flexi-desk or virtual office accepted | Physical Ejari-registered office required |
| Starting Cost | From AED 4,888 | From AED 12,900 |
| Setup Timeline | 3-5 working days | 7-15 working days |
| Regulatory Authority | Free Zone Authority (FZA) | Department of Economic Development (DED) |
| Import and Export Duties | Exempt within the free zone | Standard UAE customs duties apply |
| Best For | International trade, consulting, services, startups, remote businesses | Local retail, UAE B2B and B2C market, government contract work |
Free zone companies that sell products or services to UAE mainland customers must do so through a registered UAE mainland distributor or agent, or through a separately licensed mainland branch. They cannot directly open retail outlets or offices on the mainland without additional mainland licensing.
Unsure which structure is right for your business? Our consultants will assess your business activity, target market, and operational needs and recommend the most cost-effective structure - whether that is a freezone setup in Dubai or a mainland company. We provide this guidance at no charge during your free consultation.
Free Zone Company Setup Packages and Pricing (2026)
Takween Advisory offers transparent, all-inclusive free zone company setup packages in Dubai. All government fees, Free Zone Authority charges, and professional service fees are included in your quoted price. There are no hidden costs - what we quote is what you pay.
Each package includes a dedicated case manager, government liaison support, and post-setup assistance throughout the process.
| Package | Price | Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starter | From AED 4,888 | Trade license, establishment card, share certificate, 0 visas | Solo founders who only need a company license |
| Business | From AED 7,500 | Trade license, flexi-desk, 1 investor visa, Emirates ID, medical fitness | Founders who want UAE residency with their business |
| Growth | From AED 11,900 | Trade license, flexi-desk, 2 investor visas, Emirates ID, bank account support | Partners, co-founders, and small founding teams |
The prices above are starting figures and may vary based on your chosen free zone authority, business activity, legal structure, number of visas required, and applicable government fees. Takween Advisory will provide a full, itemised cost breakdown during your free consultation before you commit to anything.
Need a custom package - more visas, additional activities, office space, or VAT registration? Our team will build a tailored solution for your specific requirements.
What Is Included in Our Free Zone Company Setup Service
Takween Advisory manages the entire free zone company formation process on your behalf - from your initial consultation through to trade license delivery, UAE residence visa processing, and corporate bank account opening. Here is exactly what is covered:
Free initial consultation - Free zone selection, business activity guidance, legal structure recommendation, and transparent cost breakdown.
Trade name reservation - Name availability check and formal reservation with the chosen Free Zone Authority.
Document preparation and submission - Preparation of your Memorandum of Association (MOA), application forms, and all supporting incorporation documents.
Trade license issuance - Full application submission, authority liaison, and delivery of your trade license and establishment card.
Share certificate and establishment card - All official company incorporation documents issued and delivered.
Flexi-desk or virtual office arrangement - Office solution arranged with the free zone authority, if required by your package.
UAE investor residence visa processing - Entry permit application, medical fitness test, Emirates ID registration, and visa stamping for all shareholders.
Corporate bank account introduction and documentation support - Introduction to UAE banking partners, document preparation, and support through the account opening process.
PRO services and government liaison - All government communications, authority follow-ups, and official submissions handled on your behalf.
Annual renewal reminders and management - 60-day advance reminder and complete renewal coordination every year.
Dedicated case manager - One point of contact from consultation through to license delivery and beyond.
Documents Required for Free Zone Company Setup in Dubai
The documentation required for freezone company registration in Dubai depends on whether your shareholders are individuals or corporate entities. All documents must be valid and current at the time of submission. Some free zones and regulated activities may require additional approvals from sector-specific authorities such as the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) or the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). Below are the standard free zone company requirements in Dubai for both individual and corporate shareholders.
For individual shareholders and directors, you will need:
Certified passport copy - valid for a minimum of 6 months (all shareholders and directors). UAE residence visa copy and Emirates ID copy, if you are currently residing in the UAE. Passport-size photograph with a plain white background. Proof of residential address - a utility bill or bank statement dated within the last 3 months. A bank reference letter or professional reference letter, required by certain free zone authorities as part of their due diligence process. A brief CV or professional profile summarising your business background. A business plan - required for certain regulated, specialised, or financial activities.
For corporate shareholders, additional documentation is required:
Certificate of Incorporation of the parent company. Memorandum and Articles of Association. Board Resolution authorising the UAE company formation and naming the authorised signatory. Certificate of Good Standing issued by the relevant authority in the parent company's country of incorporation. Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) declaration. All corporate documents must be notarised and, in most cases, attested by the UAE Embassy in the country of origin and legalised by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Takween Advisory will confirm the exact document requirements for your chosen free zone and business activity during your free consultation - and guide you through the attestation process if required.
How to Set Up a Free Zone Company in Dubai - Step by Step
Takween Advisory has refined the freezone company setup process across hundreds of successful formations in Dubai and the UAE. Whether you are registering a new UAE free zone company or setting up free zone companies in Dubai for the first time, here is exactly what happens when you work with us - from first consultation through to your UAE corporate bank account:
Step 1 - Free Consultation and Activity Selection
We assess your business activity, target market, visa requirements, and budget. We present a clear comparison of the most suitable free zones for your Dubai freezone setup and recommend the right legal structure - FZE, FZC, or branch. We confirm the complete free zone company setup cost in Dubai and the full timeline before you proceed.
Step 2 - Trade Name Reservation
We check name availability against the Free Zone Authority's registered name database and UAE naming regulations, then submit your formal trade name reservation.
Step 3 - Document Preparation
We prepare your Memorandum of Association (MOA), application forms, and all supporting documents. All paperwork is reviewed for accuracy and completeness before submission to avoid processing delays.
Step 4 - License Submission and Issuance
We submit your complete application to the free zone authority via their official online portal or in-person submission desk. We monitor the approval status and liaise with the authority on your behalf. For standard applications, your trade license and establishment card are delivered within 3-5 working days. Activities requiring additional regulatory approvals may take 2-4 weeks.
Step 5 - UAE Residence Visa Processing
Once your company is registered, we manage the full UAE investor visa process - entry permit application, medical fitness test, Emirates ID registration, and visa stamping. This stage typically takes 10-15 working days. Your visa quota is determined by your package and office type.
Step 6 - Corporate Bank Account Opening
With your trade license and company documents in hand, we introduce you to our UAE banking partners - including Emirates NBD, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Mashreq Bank, and RAK Bank - and support you through the corporate account opening process, including document preparation and relationship manager introductions.
Annual Renewal for Free Zone Companies in Dubai
Every UAE free zone trade license whether issued under a freezone company setup in Dubai or a UAE free zone company registered elsewhere in the country - must be renewed annually before its expiry date. Failure to renew on time attracts financial penalties imposed by the Free Zone Authority and can affect your UAE residence visa status, your corporate bank account standing, and your ability to conduct business legally.
Free zone company renewal in Dubai starts from AED 4,500 per year for the trade license, depending on the free zone authority and your package. Flexi-desk and virtual office arrangements are renewed separately, with fees varying by zone. Establishment card renewal is included in most standard renewal packages.
Takween Advisory provides complete freezone license renewal management for all clients. We send you a reminder 60 days before your license expiry date and handle the entire renewal process - including document updates, authority submissions, and fee payments - on your behalf. You will never miss a renewal deadline.
Why Choose Takween Advisory for Free Zone Company Setup in Dubai?
Takween Advisory is a specialist business setup consultancy in Dubai with a track record of supporting founders, SMEs, and international investors across 30 nationalities and 12 industries. We are not a general services firm - freezone company formation in Dubai, freezone business setup UAE, mainland setup, and residency visa processing are our core expertise. From your first consultation through to free zone company registration and beyond, we manage everything.
Dedicated case manager - One point of contact from your initial consultation through to license delivery. No call centres, no handoffs.
Transparent pricing - no hidden fees - We provide a complete, itemised cost breakdown before you commit. What we quote is what you pay. All government fees and Free Zone Authority charges are included.
Fast turnaround - Most free zone licenses are issued within 3-5 working days. We monitor your application status daily and keep you informed at every stage.
End-to-end support - Trade license, UAE investor visa, corporate bank account, PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual license renewal - all managed under one roof.
Multilingual team - Our consultants work in Arabic, English, and French to serve our international client base effectively.
Post-setup support - We do not disappear after your license is issued. Accounting, bookkeeping, VAT registration, corporate tax compliance, and annual renewals are all available as ongoing services.
30+ nationalities served - We have guided founders and investors from over 30 countries through the UAE company formation process, including clients from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the GCC.
Ready to Start Your Freezone Company Setup in Dubai?
Speak with a Takween Advisory consultant today. Whether you need a Dubai free zone company setup, a freezone business setup in UAE, or guidance on setting up free zone companies in Dubai for the first time - we identify the right free zone for your business, provide a complete transparent cost breakdown, and manage the entire freezone company registration process from start to finish.
Dubai free zone company setup from AED 4,888. Free zone trade license issued in as little as 3 working days. No hidden fees.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A free zone company is a legal entity established within one of Dubai's designated free economic zones, governed by its own Free Zone Authority. It allows 100% foreign ownership and is typically used by international investors, consultants, startups, and trading businesses.
Free zone company setup in Dubai starts from AED 4,888. Costs vary based on the free zone chosen, business activity, number of visas, and office package. Contact Takween Advisory for a full, transparent cost breakdown tailored to your requirements.
Most free zone company registrations are completed within 3–5 working days. Some free zones with additional regulatory requirements may take slightly longer.
Yes. All free zone companies in Dubai allow 100% foreign ownership. No UAE national partner, local sponsor, or Local Service Agent is required.
No. Free zone companies cannot sell directly to UAE mainland customers without an approved local distributor or a separate mainland branch. For unrestricted local market access, a DED mainland license is required.
A Free Zone Establishment (FZE) has one shareholder. A Free Zone Company (FZ-LLC) has two or more shareholders. Both are limited liability structures governed by their respective free zone authority.
Most free zones accept a flexi-desk or virtual office as the registered business address. A dedicated physical office is only required for activities that mandate specific premises or larger visa quotas.
Visa allocation depends on the free zone and office package. A flexi-desk typically allows 1–3 visas. A dedicated office allows more. Some free zones such as IFZA offer packages with up to 6 visas.
Yes. Many free zone setups can be completed remotely. Document signing can be arranged outside the UAE. Visa-related steps such as medical fitness and Emirates ID require physical presence in the UAE.
IFZA and Meydan Free Zone are among the most cost-effective options, with packages starting from AED 4,888 and AED 5,500 respectively. The best free zone for your business depends on your specific activity, visa requirements, and long-term plans.
Free zone license renewals start from AED 4,500 per year. Takween Advisory offers full renewal management — we remind you 60 days before expiry and handle the entire process on your behalf.
Yes. Once your free zone license is issued, you can apply for a corporate bank account with UAE banks including Emirates NBD, RAK Bank, Mashreq, ADCB, and FAB. Takween Advisory assists with bank introductions and documentation preparation.
Free zone companies can benefit from 0% corporate tax on qualifying income if they meet UAE corporate tax conditions. Non-qualifying income, such as mainland business, is taxed at 9%. All companies must register and file annual corporate tax returns with the FTA.
Free zones allow activities like trading, import/export, consultancy, IT services, media, logistics, healthcare, education, and industrial work. Each free zone has its own approved list. Regulated sectors such as finance, healthcare, and education may require additional approvals from external authorities.
A free zone company is registered in a free economic zone, offers 100% foreign ownership and tax benefits, but cannot directly trade in the UAE mainland. A mainland company is registered with DED and can trade across the UAE without restrictions. Your choice depends on your target market.
A free zone company has a UAE trade license, office address, and can sponsor residence visas. An offshore company has no physical presence in the UAE, cannot sponsor visas, and is used mainly for asset holding or international structures. Choose free zone if you need UAE residency.
Yes, a free zone company can open a mainland branch by obtaining a separate DED license. This allows direct trading with UAE customers, opening offices across the emirates, and bidding for government contracts. Takween Advisory can manage the full branch setup process.
Yes, free zone companies can only trade internationally or within their free zone. Direct mainland trading requires a mainland distributor, agent, or branch. Some activities like finance, healthcare, education, and legal services also need prior approval from sector regulators.
Yes, Dubai free zone companies can apply for a UAE Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) from the Ministry of Finance. To qualify, the company must show genuine economic substance and activity in the UAE. Takween Advisory can assist with the TRC application process.
A free zone visa is issued by the free zone authority, grants UAE residency and Emirates ID, and is tied to your free zone company. A mainland visa is linked to a mainland employer. Free zone visa holders cannot work for mainland companies without a separate work permit.
You must choose a legal structure (FZE or FZC), appoint a UAE-resident manager, lease office space (virtual, flexi desk, or physical), submit documents, pay fees, and obtain a trade license for your activity. Takween Advisory prepares and submits all requirements on your behalf.
Yes, once your free zone company is registered and your investor visa is processed, you can sponsor employees under your visa quota. The number of visas depends on your office package. Takween Advisory manages employee visa processing as part of our end-to-end service.
Yes, free zone companies must register for UAE corporate tax and file annual returns, even if they qualify for a 0% rate on qualifying income.
Qualifying income generally includes income earned from approved activities and eligible transactions under UAE corporate tax rules. Income from non-qualifying sources may be taxed at 9%.
Yes, a free zone company can trade internationally, import, export, and re-export goods and services outside the UAE without mainland trading restrictions.
Goods imported into a free zone for storage or re-export usually do not attract customs duty. Customs duty generally applies when goods move into the UAE mainland market.
No, Dubai free zone companies allow 100% foreign ownership, so a UAE local sponsor is not required in most cases.
Most free zones ask for passport copies, application forms, business activity details, and shareholder or manager documents. Some cases may also require a business plan or additional approvals.
Yes, a free zone company can usually sponsor investor and employee residence visas, subject to the visa quota linked to your license and office package.
Yes, many free zone companies can be incorporated by non-residents. However, some banks, visa processes, or compliance steps may still require your presence in the UAE.
Depending on the free zone, you can usually choose from structures such as FZE, FZC, or FZ-LLC. The available legal forms vary by authority and business activity.
Your company name must follow the naming rules of the relevant free zone authority. Certain words, restricted terms, and duplicate names may not be approved.
No, not all activities need extra approvals. However, regulated sectors such as finance, healthcare, education, and some professional services may require approval from external authorities.
Yes, many Dubai free zones offer flexi desk or shared desk options for small businesses and startups. Visa eligibility usually depends on the office package you choose.
Yes, most free zones allow you to add, remove, or amend business activities after setup, subject to authority approval and amendment fees.
Yes, VAT may apply to a free zone company if it meets the UAE VAT registration threshold or carries out taxable supplies. VAT treatment can vary depending on the type of free zone transaction.
Pick the right zone, not just the cheapest one
Tell Takween Advisory your activity, your customers, and how many visas you need, and we will recommend the free zone that fits, register the company with its authority, and deliver the licence with residency and banking in train.