Free-zone company formation

A free zone is a special economic zone within a country that offers a variety of benefits to businesses, such as 0% corporate tax, 100% foreign ownership, and no import or export duties.
A free zone company is a company that is registered in a free zone and it can benefit from the free zone's tax breaks and other incentives.

• 0% corporate tax: Free zone companies in the UAE are not subject to corporate tax. This can save businesses a significant amount of money.
• 100% foreign ownership: Free zone companies can be 100% owned by foreigners. This makes them an attractive option for foreign investors.
• No import or export duties: Free zone companies do not pay import or export duties on goods and services. This can save money on their supply chain costs.
• Simple registration process: Registering a free zone company is simple and straightforward. It can save businesses time and money.
• Flexible regulations: Free zones have more flexible regulations than the mainland of the UAE. This gives more freedom to operate.
• Access to a skilled workforce: The UAE has a highly skilled workforce with many English speakers. This makes it easy to find and hire the talent you need to grow your business.
• Proximity to major markets: The UAE is located in a strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. This gives businesses access to a large and growing market.

• Free Zone Establishment (FZE): An FZE is a company registered in a free zone and owned by one or more shareholders. FZEs are the most common type of free zone company in the UAE.
• Free Zone Company (FZCO): An FZCO is a company registered in a free zone and owned by two or more shareholders. FZCOs have more flexibility than FZEs but also require a higher capital investment.
• Free Zone Branch: A free zone branch is a company branch incorporated in another country. Free zone branches are not subject to corporate tax in the UAE, but they are subject to other taxes, such as import and export duties.
• Free Zone Representative Office: A free zone representative office is an office set up by a company incorporated in another country. Free zone representative offices are prohibited from conducting commercial activities in the UAE.

1. Choose a free zone: The first step is to choose a free zone in Dubai. Dubai has many free zones, each with its own set of benefits and requirements. You must select a free zone that is right for your business.
2. Obtain a sponsor: If you are not a UAE national, you must obtain a sponsor. A UAE national sponsor will be responsible for your company in the UAE. You can find a sponsor through the free zone authority or through a business advisor.
3. Reserve a name: Once you have chosen a free zone and obtained a sponsor, you must reserve a name for your company. You can reserve a name through the free zone authority.
4. Submit an application: You must submit an application to the free zone authority to set up your company. The application process will vary depending on the free zone.
5. Pay the fees: You must pay the fees associated with setting up your company. The fees will vary depending on the free zone.
6. Obtain your licence: Once your application has been approved, you will be issued a licence to operate your company in the free zone.
7. Open a bank account: You must open a bank account in the UAE for your company. You can open a bank account through a local or international bank with a presence in the UAE.
8. Obtain a visa: If you are not a UAE national, you must obtain a visa to work in the UAE. You can get a visa through your sponsor or through a business advisor.
9. Move to Dubai: Once you have obtained your visa, you can move to Dubai and start operating your company.

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC): The DIFC is a financial-free zone in Dubai. It is one of the most popular free zones in the UAE for businesses in the financial services sector.

Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA): JAFZA is the largest free zone in the UAE. It is famous for various business sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, and trade.

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA): DAFZA is a free zone close to Dubai International Airport. It is a popular choice for businesses in the aviation and logistics sectors.

Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone): SAIF Zone is a free zone in Sharjah. It is a popular choice for businesses in the manufacturing and logistics sectors.