List of Free Zones in the United Arab Emirates

Are you looking to start a business in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and curious about the various options available in terms of free zones? In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of free zones in UAE to help you make an informed decision for your business ventures. Let’s dive right in!

What are Free Zones?

Before we delve into the list of free zones in UAE, let’s first understand what free zones are and why they are so popular among business owners. Free zones are designated areas within a country that offer various incentives and benefits to foreign investors and companies looking to establish their presence in the region. These benefits often include 100% foreign ownership, 100% repatriation of capital and profits, tax exemptions, and streamlined processes for company setup.

List of Free Zones in the UAE

1. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC): Located in Dubai, DMCC is the largest and fastest-growing free zone in the UAE, with over 17,000 companies operating within its premises. It is known for its state-of-the-art infrastructure and extensive range of business activities.
2. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA): Situated in Dubai, JAFZA is one of the oldest and most well-established free zones in UAE. It offers a strategic location near Jebel Ali Port, making it an ideal hub for businesses involved in trade and logistics.
3. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM): Located in the heart of the capital city Abu Dhabi, ADGM is a leading international financial center that provides a wide range of financial services and business opportunities for companies looking to operate in the region.
4. Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone): As the first free zone in Sharjah, SAIF Zone has become a popular choice for companies engaged in manufacturing, trading, and logistics activities. Its proximity to Sharjah Airport makes it a convenient location for businesses.
5. Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ): Situated in the northern emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, RAKEZ offers a cost-effective business setup solution with competitive pricing and a wide range of facilities and services for companies across different sectors.

List of Free Zones in Dubai

1. Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA): Located next to Dubai International Airport, DAFZA is one of the oldest and most well-established free zones in Dubai. It is home to a wide range of industries, including aviation, logistics, technology, and more.
2. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA): Considered the largest free zone in Dubai, JAFZA is a key player in the UAE’s economy. It offers state-of-the-art infrastructure and a strategic location near Jebel Ali Port, one of the largest container ports in the world.
3. Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO): As the region’s premier technology park, DSO attracts companies operating in the IT, telecommunications, and semiconductor sectors. It provides a supportive ecosystem for innovation and growth.
4. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC): The DMCC is one of the largest and most popular free zones in Dubai, specializing in commodities trading. It offers a range of benefits to businesses, including modern infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strategic location close to the Dubai International Airport.
5. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC): The DIFC is a financial free zone located in the heart of Dubai’s financial district. It is home to a wide range of financial institutions, law firms, and businesses, and offers a range of benefits, including a common law framework, a tax-friendly environment, and access to a pool of skilled professionals.

List of Free Zones in Abu Dhabi

1. Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone (ADAFZ): Situated near Abu Dhabi International Airport, ADAFZ offers world-class facilities and services to businesses in aviation, logistics, and other industries. Its strategic location makes it a prime choice for companies seeking global connectivity.
2. Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD): Spanning over 410 square kilometers, KIZAD is one of the largest industrial zones in the region. It provides businesses with access to key markets and a range of investment opportunities.
3. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) – Situated in the capital city of Abu Dhabi, ADGM is a rapidly growing international financial center that attracts companies in the finance, tech, and professional services industries.

List of Free Zones in Sharjah

1. Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA): HFZA is a leading free zone in Sharjah, offering investors a cost-effective and business-friendly environment. It is home to over 6,500 companies from diverse industries.
2. Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone): Located adjacent to Sharjah International Airport, SAIF Zone is a thriving business hub for companies in sectors such as aviation, logistics, and manufacturing. It offers streamlined procedures and a range of value-added services.

List of Free Zones in Ras Al Khaimah

1. RAK Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ): RAK FTZ is known for its competitive pricing and flexible options for businesses of all sizes. It caters to a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, trading, and consultancy services.
2. RAK Investment Authority (RAKIA): RAKIA is a key driver of economic growth in Ras Al Khaimah, attracting both local and international investors. It offers a range of incentives, including 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions.

Why Choose a Free Zone in the UAE?

• 100% foreign ownership
• Tax exemptions
• 100% repatriation of capital and profits
• Easy company setup process
• State-of-the-art infrastructure
• Strategic location for global trade

Top 5 Cheapest Free Zones in the UAE

If you’re looking to set up your business in UAE on a budget, here are the top 5 cheapest free zones to consider:

1. Ajman Free Zone: Known for its low set-up costs and competitive pricing, Ajman Free Zone is a popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses. With affordable office spaces and warehouse facilities, Ajman Free Zone offers entrepreneurs a cost-effective way to establish their businesses in the UAE.
2. RAK Free Trade Zone: Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone is another cost-effective option for businesses looking to set up in UAE. With its competitive pricing and a range of business facilities, RAK Free Trade Zone provides entrepreneurs with a budget-friendly solution for their business needs.
3. Fujairah Creative City: Fujairah Creative City is a specialized free zone that caters to creative and media businesses. With its affordable licensing options and flexible payment plans, Fujairah Creative City offers entrepreneurs a cost-effective way to establish their presence in the UAE’s media industry.
4. Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone: Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone is a cost-effective free zone that offers a range of business facilities and services at competitive prices. With its strategic location and affordable set-up costs, Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone is an attractive option for businesses looking to establish themselves in the UAE.
5. Ajman Media City Free Zone: Ajman Media City Free Zone is a budget-friendly option for businesses in the media and entertainment industry. With its affordable licensing options and state-of-the-art facilities, Ajman Media City Free Zone provides entrepreneurs with a cost-effective solution for setting up their businesses in the UAE.

How to Register a New Free Zone in the UAE with Us

Now that you understand the benefits of setting up in a free zone in the UAE, let’s walk you through the registration process with us. Registering a new free zone in UAE can seem like a daunting task, but with our expert guidance, we can make the process smooth and hassle-free for you. Here are the steps involved in registering a new free zone in UAE with us:

1. Choose the Right Free Zone: The first step is to choose the right free zone for your business. With over 45 free zones in the UAE, each offering specific advantages for different industries, it’s essential to select the one that best suits your business needs.
2. Prepare the Required Documents: Once you have chosen the free zone, you will need to gather the necessary documents for registration. These typically include a completed application form, passport copies of shareholders, and a business plan.
3. Submit Your Application: After preparing the required documents, you can submit your application for registration to the relevant authorities in the chosen free zone. Our team will guide you through this process and ensure that all necessary documents are in order.
4. Obtain a Business License: Once your application is approved, you will receive a business license allowing you to operate in the free zone. This license grants you all the benefits and privileges of setting up a business in a free zone in UAE.

Why Choose Us?

When it comes to registering a new free zone in UAE, our team stands out for several reasons:

• Experience: With years of experience in the industry, we have helped countless clients establish successful businesses in the UAE’s free zones.
• Expertise: Our team of experts is well-versed in the intricacies of UAE business law and regulations, ensuring that your company is set up for success.
• Authority: We have established strong relationships with key government agencies and free zone authorities, allowing us to expedite the registration process for our clients.
• Trust: Our commitment to transparency, integrity, and exceptional service has earned us the trust of our clients, who continue to rely on us for their business needs.

In conclusion, the UAE offers a diverse range of free zones catering to various business needs and preferences. Whether you are looking to establish a trading company, set up a manufacturing facility, or operate in the financial services sector, there is a free zone in the UAE that will suit your requirements. Take advantage of the incentives and benefits offered by these free zones to grow and expand your business in this dynamic and thriving region.

Connect with Neeja Corporate Services

Are you looking to start your company in Setup in Dubai but feeling overcome by the registration process? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Setting up a business in a foreign country can be challenging, but with the right guidance and support, it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Neeja’s business setup services offer complete support and serve as a one-stop shop for company setup in Dubai Free zone. We provide a wide range of value-added services, such as company setup in UAE Free Zones and VAT registration. Over the years, we have successfully advised many new entrepreneurs to make their business in UAE dreams a reality.

To book a free consultation, call on +971 43243031. You can also send a WhatsApp message at +971 50 465 2843. To connect over email, send us your query at [email protected].

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