Nextier Business Solutions

Freezone Business Setup in UAE

Explore boundless opportunities with NEXTIER Business Solutions's Freezone company formation in Dubai, UAE !

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Free Zone
Business set up in Dubai

Unique advantages of UAE free zone company formation

When individuals and institutions weigh the options for UAE free zone company formation, one aspect firmly tilts the balance in favor – free zones.

Freezone areas are those designated business zones where corporate and personal income taxes are scaled down to 0%. Choosing a free zone can depend on many factors: the nature and type of business, the size, flexibility and availability of office space, location, and pricing.

Obtaining a business license for Dubai freezone company setup is easier and faster than offshore and mainland, given you have the right set of guidance from experts. The decision to set up business in the UAE free zone totally depends on the type of business you’re looking to form.

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The UAE was the first country in the Middle East to establish the concept of the free zone in 1985, with the launch of Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA). Although it was a small operation catering only to a handful of companies, it became the first free zone in the world to be awarded ISO certification within 10 years.

The JAFZA success story became the foundation for several free zones across the country, each offering strategic benefits and business advantages. These free zones are collectively home to many thousands of individuals and institutions who have been successful at new business set up in UAE.

Today, there are roughly 50 free zones in the country catering to specialised sectors including but not limited to: trade, industry, energy and renewable energy, exports and re-exports, media and media communications, metals and commodities, finance, healthcare, and Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

Incorporating the principles and international best practices of free trade, free zones help stimulate trade and investment, and facilitate the transfer of skills, knowledge and technology. A unique offering is the easy access to more than 2 billion consumers in multiple markets located within a 4 hour flight.

The staggering number of international firms located at the UAE’s free zones are proof of this.

Those who are interested in Business setup services in Dubai UAE Free Zone stand to benefit in many ways, anywhere in the country.

For instance, when Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF) saw that the prospect of lengthy, bureaucratic procedures was daunting to potential investors, the authorities launched a 24-hour licensing service which enables new entrants to set up a business in the UAE almost instantly. Also in Sharjah, the Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) offers huge industrial and commercial plots running into several thousand square feet, and infrastructure specifically designed to facilitate import and re-export.

In the capital, Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD), a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Ports, recently announced a UAE free zone business set-up cost to support entrepreneurs, costing an extremely affordable USD 2,500.

Low Cost Business set up in Dubai’s free zones is simple, easy and quick.

The basic premise of a free zone is that it makes it much easier for businesses to conduct business. Setting up new business in UAE or getting a trade license can sound like a long and complicated process, but it is not. Paperwork is simplified, efforts are minimised, and everything is designed to attract international investors and help them build up their business.

The wide and varied choice of free zones comes with 100% foreign ownership, with no requirements for local sponsors or service agents. Business owners can also enjoy 100% repatriation of revenues and profits, and 100% transfer of funds.

More importantly, there is a time-bound waiver of all corporate taxes as well as import and export taxes, and an exemption from all personal taxes.

Many of the larger free zones have their own laws and courts based on both English and common law, sitting alongside the country’s mainland business environment which has also modernised in recent years.

For foreigners and resident expatriates with an interest in setting up a business in the UAE (either a small office or full-scale operations), a free zone is the surest route to success.

UAE free zone business setup is easier, simpler, and faster. Documentation is simplified, and recruitment and workforce processes are faster and cheaper than onshore options. Most free zone authorities also extend support for ancillary services such as legal, medical, labour, and immigration processes.

Options in space, style, tenure, and budget are almost unlimited – from individual freelance permits to international branch office licences, and from shared desk space on a 1-year contract to industrial warehouse leasing for up to 25 years.

With many years of experience and many hundreds of satisfied clients on our roster, our teams continue to offer personalised and professional service.

We cater to both, residents and international investors who are interested in UAE free zone company formation.

We can help you identify the right specialty and choose the best free zone location. We help you create compelling value propositions. We process all the documentation and paperwork while complying with regulations. We will even fulfil unusual requests.

If you are looking for UAE Free Zone company set up, we are happy to serve you – and deliver high levels of satisfaction.

Business Setup in Dubai Free Zone- Insights

Discover the opportunity to start your Dubai free zone company setup with our expert assistance. Whether you prefer the flexibility of a Free Zone, the advantages of Mainland, or the privacy of an Offshore setup, we have the knowledge and resources to support you every step of the way.

  • 01

    PROFESSIONAL LICENSE

    Obtain the authorization needed to provide professional services within the Freezone. Benefit from a streamlined process and expand your expertise.

  • 02

    COMMERCIAL LICENSE

    Secure the privilege to trade and conduct commercial activities within the Freezone. Experience ease of operations and tap into new markets.

  • 03

    INDUSTRIAL LICENSE

    Attain the permit to establish industrial operations within the Freezone. Explore growth opportunities and optimize production processes.


Your Gateway to Success: NEXTIER Business Solutions

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

Sheikh Zayed Road

Prime business location with high visibility and connectivity for your company's growth and success.

Commercial License

Establish your business operations smoothly in Dubai's thriving commercial sector with our comprehensive support and expertise.

Professional License

Step into the professional services industry in Dubai with ease and efficiency, guided by our knowledgeable team.

Industrial License

Explore immense opportunities in Dubai's industrial sector with our assistance in obtaining the necessary licenses for your manufacturing or production business.

How To Start a Business in Dubai Freezone?

A Dubai Freezone is a designated geographic area within the city where foreign investors can set up and operate their businesses with various incentives such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified regulations. It provides an attractive environment for international companies to establish their presence in Dubai and access the regional markets.

  • Choose a Freezone: Research and select the appropriate Freezone based on your business activity and preferences.
  • Business Type: Decide on the type of business activity you want to engage in and ensure it’s allowed in the chosen Freezone.
  • Legal Structure: Choose a legal structure for your business, such as a Freezone Company, Freezone Establishment, or Branch.
  • Name and License: Reserve a business name and apply for the relevant business license from the Freezone authority.
  • Office Space: Rent a physical office space within the Freezone, as most Freezones require a physical presence.
  • Documents Submission: Prepare and submit the required documents, including application forms, business plan, and passport copies.
  • Approvals: Await approvals from the Freezone authority and other relevant government departments.
  • Collect License: Once approved, collect your business license, which permits you to operate in the Freezone.

In most Dubai Freezones, foreign investors can enjoy 100% ownership of their businesses, without the need for a local partner or sponsor. This liberal ownership structure is a key advantage that attracts international entrepreneurs to establish their businesses in these zones.

While businesses in Dubai Freezones are primarily set up to cater to international markets, they can engage in limited trading within the UAE market through distributors, wholesalers, or local agents. However, direct selling to the local market may require additional approvals and compliance with local regulations.

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.

Please note that specifics may vary depending on the chosen Freezone and the nature of your Dubai free zone company setup. It’s advisable to consult with experts like NEXTIER Business Solutions for accurate and up-to-date information tailored to your situation.

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with all Government Agencies

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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.

  • 100% Foreign Ownership
  • No Trade Barriers
  • Higher
  • Confidentiality
  • Exemptions From Corporate Taxes and Import Charges

This depends on your needs, as well as the needs of 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 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.

NEXTIER Business Solutions 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. NEXTIER Business Solutions 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.

Our Other Services

Accounting service

Our world-class accounting solutions are more affordable and easier than you think.

Auditing service

We are approved auditors that can be counted on for all your audit requirements.

Legal service

We help set up your company the right way so it can be scaled up or down with ease.