Free Zone
UAE’s free zones are a dream come true for niche businesses operating in niche industries and roles. At present, 45+ free zones are operating in the UAE, across Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates.
Freezone Company Formation
Every free zone is designed to support specific industries, such as technology, media, finance, healthcare, and more. These free zones operate under a unique legal and economic framework that encourages foreign investments and gives you the benefits of special tax incentives and ease of doing business.
An independent Free Zone Authority (FZA) governs the operations of the free zones. It is responsible for issuing the license to operate here. You can either register a new company in the form of Free Zone Establishment (FZE) or set up a branch or representative office of an existing company in the UAE or abroad.
So what changes? Companies established in the Free Zones are regulated per the rules of the said free zones. Consequently, you can rest assured that the rules and regulations enforced aim to optimize operational excellence, reduce setup-related complexities, and give you access to tailored support.
Benefits of Freezone UAE
- 100% foreign ownership
- 100% Repatriation
- 100% Import -Export Tax Redemption
- Access of Facilities and Workshops
- Simple Company Formations
- World- Class Infrastructure
Major Free Zones
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
Location: Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai
Suitable for: Precious commodities, energy, steel and metals, agricultural commodities
Advantages: Largest free-trade zones in the UAE, which support commodity trading through notable organizations such as Dubai Diamond Exchange (DDE), the Dubai Pearl Exchanges (DPE), DMCC Tradeflow, the Dubai Good Delivery Standard (DGD), and the like.
Highlights: Prime Dubai location, 100% digital company setup process, multi-year licensing options, and priority access to networking events.
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
Location: Nadd Hessa community, Dubai
Suitable for: Innovation, technology, research and development, AI, and robotics.
Advantages: State-of-the-art infrastructure for tech-focused businesses with a network of leading innovative startups, SMEs, and multinational companies.
Highlights: Co-working spaces, dedicated offices, boutique buildings, and shovel-ready land supported with comfortable and sustainable living for families, IT support, access to accelerator and incubator programs, and tailored business development programs.
International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)
Location: Dubai South
Suitable for: Trading, Consulting, Media, and Tech SMEs
Advantages: Thoughtfully designed ecosystem allows you to commercially import, export, or distribute goods and services and provide professional services.
Highlights: Multi-year licenses with discounts, simple setup process, open branch setup for foreign companies, and no minimum capital requirement.
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
Location: Ras Al Khaimah
Suitable for: Manufacturing, industrial projects, and education
Advantages: 6 dedicated zones catering to all business requirements, a multinational community thriving in 50+ industries, advanced facilities for offices, warehouses, and on-site accommodation.
Highlights: 9 types of licenses to choose from, 100% foreign ownership, connectivity to major logistic hubs, and easy access to markets across MENA, Europe, and Asia.
Sharjah Media City (Shams)
Location: Sharjah
Suitable for: Media, freelancers, and creative startups
Advantages: Engaging work spaces, podcast rooms, lifestyle spaces, media services (finding talent, location sourcing, influencer marketing, and the like), concierge support, and media training and workshops
Highlights: Tailored licence options with easy upgrades to meet your business’s evolving needs, no prerequisite for physical office space, 120+ business activities, and flexible visa options.
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
Location: Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island
Suitable for: Finance, fintech, legal, and asset management
Advantages: Hosts the largest financial event in Abu Dhabi called Abu Dhabi Finance Week, future-focused infrastructure, Falcon economy, ADGM Academy, and is the only jurisdiction with an English common law system.
Highlights: Permits a wide range of business structures, requires physical presence in offices (exception for Special Purpose Vehicles), and supports the Online Registry Solution.
Contact
+971 43931364
info@groundwork.ae
613 The Metropolis Tower
Business Bay, Dubai, UAE
Business Setup
Business Support
© groundwork 2025