Learn about the guide to free zones in Dubai because the Dubai Free Zone offers a range of benefits to those wishing to open business companies there, such as granting 100% full ownership and complete tax exemption. It also enables companies to transfer funds without any additional fees. On the other hand, All free zones in Dubai have their own rules, principles and requirements. Despite the advantages that these free zones offer to those wishing to establish a business in Dubai, there are some steps necessary to establish a company as well, including determining the nature of the business and going to the relevant authority, then choosing a trade name and applying for a commercial license, after which one must They must choose offices and work facilities, then register the company and obtain initial approvals. To learn more about this topic, we advise you to review the guide to establishing a business in free zones in Dubai.
Free zones in Dubai
About free zones
Dubai’s free zones are a distinguished destination for companies and investors thanks to the many advantages they offer. These areas are characterized by a flexible business environment that encourages investment and trade, as it provides companies with full ownership by foreigners, making it easier for them to establish and develop their businesses without the need for a local partner. Dubai’s free zones include a wide range of sectors such as technology, media, healthcare, and trade, providing diverse options to suit various business activities. Moreover, companies in these areas benefit from tax exemptions, low customs duties, and facilitation of licensing procedures, which enhances Dubai’s attractiveness as a global business center. These advantages contribute to supporting economic growth, promoting innovation, and attracting international investments to the city.
Guide to free zones in Dubai
Here is a table showing the free zones in Dubai:
| Free zone | Main activities | the site | features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai World Trade Centre | Trade, services, technology | Dubai Centre | Central location, easy access, integrated services |
| Jebel Ali | Industry, logistics, trade | Jebel Ali | Close to Jebel Ali Port, advanced logistics facilities |
| Dubai Silicon Oasis | Technology, digital industries | Silicon area | Technology-supportive environment, advanced infrastructure |
| Industrial city | Manufacturing, services, trade | Industrial city | Designated areas for factories, integrated industrial services |
| Dubai International Airport (DAFZ) | Trade, logistics, warehousing | Close to Dubai International Airport | Easy access to the airport, various logistical services |
| Dubai Healthcare City | Health care, medical research | Dubai Healthcare City | A specialized environment in healthcare and research |
| Dubai Academic City | Education, training, research | Dubai Academic City | Advanced educational environment, support for academic research |
| Dubai Studio City | Media, media production | Dubailand | Specialized media production facilities, integrated technical support services |
| Dubai Media City | Media, advertising, public relations | Dubai Media City | Integrated media environment, support facilities for media work |
The importance of free zones for establishing companies in them
The Dubai Free Zone is considered one of the most important options for establishing companies thanks to the advantages it offers. Here are some reasons why free zones are attractive for business establishment:
- Full Ownership : In free zones, foreign investors can fully own companies without the need for a local partner, providing complete freedom in running the business.
- Tax exemptions : Free zones provide exemptions from taxes on companies and profits, which helps reduce operational costs and increase profitability.
- Reduced customs duties : Free zones exempt companies from customs duties on exports and imports, which enhances competitiveness and reduces costs.
- Fast and simplified registration procedures : Free zones contribute to accelerating establishment and registration procedures, saving time and effort for investors.
- Facilities in infrastructure : Free zones provide ready-made facilities and offices, in addition to advanced infrastructure that supports business operations.
- Easy access to international markets : Thanks to their strategic location, free zones provide easy access to global markets, which enhances opportunities for expansion and growth.
- Benefit from support services : Free zones provide a range of support services such as legal consulting, accounting, and human resources management services, which facilitates daily management operations.
- Flexible commercial environment : Free zones provide a flexible commercial environment that supports innovation and growth, making them attractive to new companies and startups.
These advantages contribute to making free zones an exciting option for investment, and enhance the ability of companies to expand and grow in the dynamic Dubai market.
Establishing a company in the Dubai Free Zone
Establishing a company in the Dubai Free Zone is an exciting strategic option for investors thanks to the many advantages it provides. Free zones provide an ideal business environment for companies thanks to full foreign ownership, giving investors complete freedom to manage their business without the need for a local partner. In addition, companies benefit from tax exemptions, lower customs duties, and simplified registration procedures, which enhances their competitiveness and provides lower operating costs. Free zones also provide advanced infrastructure and ready-made offices, which facilitates the establishment process and promotes rapid growth of companies. Thanks to Dubai’s strategic location, companies in the free zones can easily access global markets, which opens up broad horizons for expansion and growth.
In addition to the above, establishing a company in Dubai’s free zones enhances opportunities for innovation and growth thanks to the flexible and supportive business environment. These areas provide integrated services to investors, including office leasing, bank account opening, and work and residency visa procedures, allowing investors to focus on developing their businesses rather than being preoccupied with administrative procedures. The presence of specialized advisors in these areas who provide strategic support and legal guidance enhances companies’ ability to adapt to changes and market opportunities. Thus, Dubai’s free zones are an ideal destination for startups and investors seeking to benefit from the dynamic economic environment and the great advantages it offers.
Conditions for establishing a company in Dubai
Establishing a company in Dubai requires adherence to a set of conditions and procedures. Here is an overview of the main terms:
1. Choose the type of company
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) : You must have a local partner (UAE citizen) who owns 51% of the shares.
- Sole Proprietorship Limited Liability Company : Foreigners can own the entire company, but registration in free zones is required.
- Branch company of a foreign company : affiliated with a main non-Emirati company, while adhering to local laws.
- Public or private joint stock company : It needs to employ large capital and adhere to specific laws.
2. Choosing the location and location of the company : You can choose to register in free zones or economic zones, or within Dubai. Each option has its own conditions and benefits.
3. Obtaining a business license : You need to obtain a license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) if you are setting up a company in Dubai outside the free zones.
4. Determine the company’s activity : The commercial activity must be specified accurately, as this affects the type of license required.
5. Submitting the necessary documents :
- For limited liability companies : Articles of Association, a certificate from a bank proving the capital deposit, a copy of the passport and visas.
- For a foreign company : proof of registration of the parent company, approval from the relevant authority, distribution agreements, if any.
6. Choosing a company name : The company name must comply with local laws and not conflict with moral values.
7. Renting an Office : An office or commercial space must be rented as part of the licensing requirements.
8. Opening a bank account : Opening a commercial bank account in the name of the company in one of the approved banks.
9. Work and residency visas : Issuing work and residency visas for employees and owners.
10. Tax and insurance registration : Register the company in the local tax and social insurance system if necessary.
The importance of free zones for establishing companies in them
Itqan Company services for establishing companies in free zones
Itqan Company provides a variety of services for establishing companies in free zones in Dubai, making it easier for investors to start their businesses efficiently and quickly. These services include:
- Company Establishment Consultations : Itqan provides specialized consultations to help clients choose the appropriate free zone based on the type of business activity and the company’s requirements.
- Licensing and registration procedures : Itqan manages all procedures related to obtaining the necessary commercial licenses and registering the company in the selected free zone.
- Preparing legal documents : Itqan helps in preparing and submitting all the legal documents required to establish the company, such as the articles of association and articles of association.
- Office Rental : Itqan provides office and commercial space rental services in free zones, providing a ready work environment for new companies.
- Opening bank accounts : Itqan helps open commercial bank accounts in approved banks, which facilitates companies’ financial operations.
- Visas and Residences : Itqan processes work visas and residency for employees and owners, ensuring the company’s compliance with immigration and residency laws.
- Administrative support services : Itqan provides administrative support services such as registering in tax systems, obtaining additional licenses, and providing legal and administrative consultations.
- Integrated services for investors : Itqan provides a comprehensive range of investment services, including assistance in licensing procedures, providing advice on investment opportunities, and guiding investors during the establishment stages.
These services contribute to simplifying the process of establishing companies and saving time and effort for investors, which enhances the chances of success and growth in the market.
Frequently asked questions about the free zones guide in Dubai
Do free zones provide support services to companies?
Yes, free zones provide support services such as legal consulting, accounting, and administrative services, making it easier for companies to manage their business efficiently.
What are the costs associated with establishing a company in free zones?
Costs include licensing fees, office rental, bank account opening, and visa costs. Costs can vary depending on the free zone and type of activity.
How long does it take to establish a company in the free zone?
The company incorporation process usually takes from a few weeks to a month, depending on how quickly documents are submitted and procedures are completed.
What types of licenses can be obtained in free zones?
Licenses vary according to activity, and may include commercial, industrial, professional, or service licenses.
