Business Setup in Dubai Free zone: Everything You Need to Know

Key Takeaways

• How much does it cost to business setup in Dubai Free zone?
• How to start a business in a Dubai Free Zone?
• Can a foreigner business setup in Dubai?
• Which Free zone areas in the UAE are best for company formation?

Business Setup in Dubai Free zone

Starting a business setup in Dubai Free zone is more lucrative than anywhere else in the world. It’s like having all the benefits in one place. From tax relaxations and full foreign ownership to a prime location that connects you to global markets, Dubai is an entrepreneur’s dream.

But let’s cut to the chase:

• How much does it cost to set up a company in Dubai Free Zone?
• How to start a business in a Dubai Free Zone?
• Can a foreigner business setup in Dubai?
• Which Free Zone areas in the UAE are best for company formation?

If you’re asking these questions, you’re in the right place. We’re going to walk you through everything you need to know, so let’s get started!

How much does it cost to business setup in Dubai Free zone?

The cost of business setup in Dubai Free zone depends on various factors, such as the type of business, license requirements, and the free zone you choose. Here’s a breakdown of estimated costs in some popular free zones in Dubai:

• International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) – AED 10,000
• Meydan Free Zone – AED 13,000
• Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) – AED 20,000
• Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) – AED 5,000 (for a basic setup)

Now, let’s talk about what influences the overall cost.

Factors That Influence the Cost of Business Setup in Dubai

Business License Cost Setup in Dubai

Trading, professional, or industrial licenses all come at different price points. A simple consultancy license will cost much less than a manufacturing license that requires warehouse space.

Business Setup Space Requirements

Some free zones require you to rent a physical office for your business setup in Dubai, while others allow virtual office setups, cutting costs significantly.

Number of Visas in Dubai

Planning to bring employees or partners? Each visa has associated fees, medical tests, and deposits in Dubai.

Government and Registration Fees

These are mandatory charges that vary by free zone in Dubai. Some free zones have attractive offers like discounted license fees for the first year.

Additional Services

Need a corporate bank account? A PRO service for smooth paperwork? These add-ons can push your total cost up in Dubai.

How to Start a Business in a Dubai Free zone?

Now that we’ve got costs covered, let’s walk through how to get your business setup in Dubai Free Zone without breaking a sweat.

Choose Your Free Zone

Each free zone is tailored to specific industries. If you’re in tech, go for Dubai Internet City. If it’s trade, JAFZA might be your best bet.

Select a Business Setup Activity in Dubai

The activity you choose determines your licensing requirements. For example, media businesses need a specific Dubai Media City

Get Your Trade Name Approved

Dubai is strict about business names; avoid offensive terms, famous brands, or anything political.

Apply for a Business License

Depending on the free zone, this can take a few days to a few weeks. Some zones offer express approvals.

Secure Office Space (If Required)

Decide between a flexi-desk, shared spaces, or a full-fledged office.

Get Your Visas and Open a Bank Account in Dubai

The final step before you call it a day! With your trade license, you can apply for investor visas, hire employees, and open a business bank account.

Can a Foreigner Business Setup in Dubai?

Short answer? Absolutely!

One of the biggest perks of business setup in Dubai Free Zone is that foreign investors can own 100% of their company, with no need for a local Emirati sponsor. Plus, you get benefits like:

• 0% corporate and income tax
• Full repatriation of profits
• Easy business registration process
• World-class infrastructure and connectivity

More than 80% of Dubai’s business owners are expats, proving that the city is built for international entrepreneurs.

Which Free Zone Areas for Company Formation in UAE?

Dubai is not the only free zone in the UAE’s business game. Here are a few other top-rated free zones across the country:

1. International Free zone Authority Free zone (IFZA): Located in Dubai, IFZA offers a dynamic business environment with world-class infrastructure and flexible office solutions.
2. Sharjah Publishing City Free zone (SPC Free Zone): Situated in Sharjah, SPC Free zone provides cost-effective setups and a strategic location, making it ideal for various industries.
3. Jebel Ali Free zone (JAFZA): As one of the oldest and largest free zones, JAFZA provides access to a vast network of businesses and a strategic location near Jebel Ali Port.
4. Sharjah Media City Free zone (Shams): Tailored for media and creative startups, Shams offers a vigorous community and a range of business activities.
5. RAK Economic Free zone (RAKEZ): Known for being one of the most cost-effective free zones, RAKEZ supports small businesses and freelancers with flexible packages.

Choosing the right free zone depends on your business activity, budget, and growth plans. Each free zone offers unique benefits tailored to specific industries, so it’s essential to assess your business setup needs carefully.

Your Business Setup in Dubai Free zone with G12

Starting a business setup in Dubai Free zone might seem like moving mountains, but with the right guidance, it’s actually pretty straightforward. At G12, we help entrepreneurs like you breeze through the process with no stress and no hidden fees, just expert business setup solutions that get you up and running fast.

Why choose G12.ae? Because actions speak louder than words. We’ve helped hundreds of businesses find their perfect launchpad in Dubai’s market. Whatever you need, assistance with license registration, visa processing, or corporate banking, we’ve got you covered.

Visit G12 today, and let’s get started!