Business Setup in Dubai

Top Free Zones in the UAE for Business Setup in 2025

7 minutes

January 23, 2025

Top Free Zones in the UAE for Business Setup in 2025
Top Free Zones in the UAE for Business Setup in 2025

Key Takeaways

  • Popular Free Zones in the UAE
  • How to choose the best free zone for your business
  • Role of G12 for VIP business setup

Dubai, recognised as the world’s start-up capital, offers premium opportunities for entrepreneurs to make their mark on the global stage. Dubai’s free zones contribute approximately 30% to the emirate’s GDP, underscoring their significance in fostering economic growth and innovation. Be in the hotspot for entrepreneurship and next-level ideas, where the quality of life is second to none.  

Launch your company in one of the UAE’s premier Free Zones and enjoy all the perks this dynamic business pool offers. From world-class infrastructure to a tax-friendly environment, it’s time to elevate your business to the global stage. Business setup in Dubai offer unique opportunities for entrepreneurs, so let’s explore the best ones in 2025.

1. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)

When it comes to the best of the best, DMCC stands tall. This free zone, located in the heart of Dubai, has earned its reputation as one of the world’s leading commodities trading hubs. Known for its world-class infrastructure and strategic location, DMCC is the go-to for businesses in sectors such as gold, diamonds, energy, and other commodities. With over 18,000 businesses already set up here, DMCC offers a vibrant environment that is perfect for both established companies and start-ups.

Why DMCC?

  • Globally recognised for its business-friendly environment
  • Offers 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and complete repatriation of profits
  • Modern office spaces and excellent connectivity

2. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

If your business revolves around finance, banking, or fintech, DIFC is the one-stop-shop for you. As the UAE’s leading financial hub, DIFC is home to some of the world’s most influential financial institutions. What sets DIFC apart is its robust regulatory framework, a wide range of financial services, and its status as a global centre for finance and innovation.

Why DIFC?

  • Internationally recognized legal and regulatory framework
  • Excellent networking opportunities with leading financial professionals
  • Access to top-tier legal, auditing, and consultancy services

3. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)

As one of the UAE’s largest and most prominent free zones, JAFZA with more than 8,700 companies stands as a vital logistics and industrial hub. Located near the Jebel Ali Port, this zone offers excellent access to major international shipping routes, making it an ideal choice for importers, exporters, and manufacturers. In 2025, JAFZA continues to offer world-class facilities and vast infrastructure for businesses looking to tap into the regional and global market.

Why JAFZA?

  • Proximity to Jebel Ali Port and Dubai International Airport
  • Ideal for large-scale manufacturing, logistics, and trading
  • Fully integrated transport and logistics infrastructure

4. Sharjah Publishing City (SPC)

For entrepreneurs in the publishing, media, and education sectors, Sharjah Publishing City is a standout choice. This unique free zone offers a one-stop shop for businesses in printing, publishing, media production, and educational services. It is strategically located near Sharjah’s international airport and seaport, offering seamless connectivity for trade and logistics.

Why SPC?

  • Specialized in publishing, printing, media, and education
  • Cost-effective set-up with no hidden charges
  • Opportunities for educational institutions and media houses

5. Fujairah Creative City Free Zone

Fujairah Creative City is the ideal zone for creative professionals. Whether you’re in media, entertainment, design, or arts, this free zone offers an excellent platform for starting your creative business. With easy access to the East Coast ports, businesses here can tap into both the local and international markets.

Why Fujairah Creative City?

  • Perfect for media, entertainment, design, and IT businesses
  • Low-cost set-up with flexible licensing options
  • Networking opportunities within the creative industry

6. Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone (RAK Free Zone)

RAK Free Zone accommodates over 15,000 companies, making it a popular choice for SMEs. RAK Free Zone continues to grow as a strong contender for businesses looking for a more affordable alternative to Dubai-based free zones. Offering highly competitive rates, low start-up costs, and a wide range of services, it’s a perfect choice for small and medium-sized businesses.

Why RAK Free Zone?

  • Cost-effective business set-up options
  • Flexible office space, from virtual offices to warehouses
  • Strategic location for regional trade

7. IFZA (International Free Zone Authority)

IFZA has rapidly gained popularity in recent years, offering some of the most competitive and flexible business solutions. Located in Fujairah, it offers a straightforward process for setting up a business with options for 100% ownership, tax exemptions, and easy access to global markets. IFZA is particularly popular for start-ups, digital entrepreneurs, and small businesses.

Why IFZA?

  • Highly competitive set-up costs and flexible solutions
  • 100% ownership and tax-free advantages
  • Ideal for SMEs, start-ups, and entrepreneurs in the digital space

8. Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP)

Sharjah is not only a cultural capital, but with SRTIP, it has now become a centre for cutting-edge research, technology, and innovation. The park provides businesses in tech, R&D, and industrial sectors with state-of-the-art facilities, funding options, and access to a growing network of experts.

Why SRTIP?

  • Focus on tech, research, and innovation
  • Great incentives for start-ups in tech and R&D fields
  • Access to funding and venture capital

9. Sharjah Media City (Shams)

For businesses in the media and entertainment industry, Sharjah Media City (Shams) offers an exciting opportunity to set up in a growing creative hub. The free zone offers services for media production companies, designers, marketers, and digital media specialists. With its strong emphasis on creative industries, Shams provides an environment designed to foster innovation.

Why Shams?

  • Perfect for media, content creation, and entertainment businesses
  • Fully equipped studios, production facilities, and creative spaces
  • Access to regional and international media markets

10. RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)

RAKEZ is one of the most popular free zones in Ras Al Khaimah, offering an affordable platform for a wide range of industries. It caters to a broad spectrum of businesses, from small startups to large-scale enterprises, with its flexible solutions and strategic location offering easy access to major markets in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.

Why RAKEZ?

  • Competitive pricing and cost-effective solutions
  • Broad industry coverage with a focus on manufacturing and trading
  • Proximity to key global markets

How to Choose the Best Free Zone for Your Business Setup in the UAE?

Selecting the ideal free zone for business setup in the UAE is a key decision for your business’s success, and it requires evaluating several important factors. Here’s how to choose the best one for your needs:

Understand Your Business Type

  • What industry will you be operating in? (e.g., tech, trading, manufacturing, media)
  • Are there any specific licences or regulatory requirements for your business type?

Evaluate Your Operational Needs

  • Will you need office space, a warehouse, or a combination of both?
  • How many visas for employees will you require, and what are the space requirements?
  • Is your business dependent on proximity to ports or airports for logistics and distribution?

Assess the Financial Implications

  • Consider the costs related to licensing, office space, and visa processing.
  • Be sure to compare the total costs and benefits of each free zone.

Seek Expert Advice  

Consult with business setup consultants in UAE to help you navigate the process and find the most suitable free zone for your unique needs. With professional guidance, you can ensure a smooth and efficient setup.

Refer to our detailed blog for more insights, A Beginner’s Guide to Business Setup in Dubai for 2025

Let G12 Handle Your Business Setup

Starting a business in the UAE has never been easier, especially with the abundance of dynamic Free Zones that cater to a wide range of industries. The free zones in Dubai employ over 200,000 people, reflecting their importance as job creators and their impact on the labour market.

Whether you’re in finance, technology, media, or trade, there is a Free Zone that meets your business needs. Let G12 take care of everything for you. We offer VIP business setup services in the UAE, handling all aspects of the setup process, from obtaining licences to securing visas, ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience for you. 

Trust G12 to be your go-to business setup firm in the UAE, so you can put your best foot forward in your endeavours.

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Sonia Shareef
Sonia Shareef

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