UAE Free Zone
Retain Ownership
Companies in the Dubai free zone area have been permitted to have 100% foreign ownership, which is really ideal for business owners who want to continue to maintain the majority of decision-making authority when it comes to effectively operating functions. A local shareholder and perhaps even a partner are not required.
Business License
The UAE Free Zone License is the principal legislation required for conducting business inside any Free Zone. Free zone licenses contractually obligate businesses of all sizes, from startup companies and micro-enterprises to huge corporations, to benefit from variety of advantages when operating in the UAE.
Financial Incentives
Economic zones in which goods and services can indeed be purchased and sold are known as “free zones.” These areas are also recognized as free trade zones, and perhaps even free zone authorities, and they allow you to trade goods and commodities without paying any taxes.
Sector-Specific
UAE free zones offer industry-specific business licenses and provide unique opportunities to defer, reduce, or eliminate import taxes on products. This can lead to significant cost savings. Additionally, businesses benefit from streamlined customs procedures .
Tax Benefits
Dubai offers no personal income, capital gains, or inheritance tax. Free zones provide 0% corporate tax, 100% foreign ownership, and duty exemptions. A 9% corporate tax applies only to large companies outside free zones. With a low 5% VAT and double taxation agreements, Dubai is a tax-friendly hub for businesses and expatriates.
Steps to Set Up a Company in a UAE Free Zones
UAE freezone
RAKEZ –
Ras Al Khaimah
Economic Zone
Established in 2005 to promote economic growth and diversification in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone) is one of the fastest-growing free zones in the UAE. It offers a strategic location near major ports and airports, making it an ideal hub for various business activities.
RAKEZ provides cost-effective business solutions and a streamlined process for company formation. It features flexible office and warehouse spaces with modern infrastructure, catering to the diverse needs of businesses.
Risepoint can assist startup businesses in setting up their ventures in RAKEZ. We offer guidance on company registration, visa processing, licensing, and other legal requirements, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup process for your business.
Key Features
Established
2000
Licenses
Trading, Consultancy, Industrial
Facilities
Flexi-desks, Offices, Warehouses
Visas
Flexi desk: 1-4 visas; office: multiple visas.
Time
Pre-approval: 1 week; formation: 3 days.
Provides a business-friendly environment with 100% foreign ownership, no corporate tax, no personal tax, and no currency restrictions. It also offers a wide range of business activities, including trading, manufacturing, services, and e-commerce.
Support Given
Clients Rating
Money Saved
Awards won
Key Features
Established
2017
Licenses
Trading, Consultancy, Industrial
Facilities
Flexi-desks, Offices, Warehouses
Visas
1-2 visas with flexi desk, 5 visas with office
Time
Registration in 3 to 4 days
PROS
SHAMS is located in the Emirate of Sharjah, which is strategically positioned between Dubai and other Northern Emirates. This allows for easy access to key business and trade hubs in the UAE and the wider region
UAE freezone
Established in 2017 with the aim of providing a platform for media and creative businesses to operate in the emirate of Sharjah.
SHAMS is the first free zone in the UAE and a part of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), located in the heart of Sharjah.
It offers a unique set of business activities, including film, broadcasting, music, and publishing.
StartBiz Global can help with business planning, market research, and financial analysis to ensure that the startup is well-positioned for success in SHAMS.
UAE freezone
SHAMS –
Sharjah Media City Free Zone
Established in 2017 with the aim of providing a platform for media and creative businesses to operate in the emirate of Sharjah.
SHAMS is the first free zone in the UAE and a part of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), located in the heart of Sharjah.
It offers a unique set of business activities, including film, broadcasting, music, and publishing.
Risepoint Global can help with business planning, market research, and financial analysis to ensure that the startup is well-positioned for success in SHAMS.
Key Features
Established
2017
Licenses types
Trading, Consultancy, Industrial
Facilities
Flexi-desks, Offices, Warehouses
Visas
1-2 visas with flexi desk, 5 visas with office
Time-frame
Registration in 3 to 4 days
PROS
SHAMS is located in the Emirate of Sharjah, which is strategically positioned between Dubai and other Northern Emirates. This allows for easy access to key business and trade hubs in the UAE and the wider region
UAE freezone
SRTIP-
Sharjah Research
Technology &
Innovation Park
Established in 2018, it is a joint venture between the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) with the University of Sharjah.
SRTIP is the park is designed to foster collaboration between industry, academia, and government to create a vibrant ecosystem for research, technology, and innovation.
The park is a key component of the UAE’s strategy to become a global leader in research and innovation.
StartBiz Global can provide ongoing support to help startups navigate the complexities of doing business in the SRTIP region of UAE while growing their business over time
Key Features
Established
2018
Licenses
Trading, Energy, Manufacturing.
Facilities
Offices, SME Offices, Laboratories
Visas
1-2 visas with flexi desk, 8 visas with office
Time
Registration in 3 to 4 days
PROS
SRTIP is focused on research, technology, and innovation, providing a range of licenses for companies in industries such as biotechnology, clean energy, and advanced materials. It offers incentives to attract and retain businesses, including tax exemptions, access to world-class research and development facilities, and supportive business environment.
Key Features
Established
1996
Licenses
Trading, Consultancy, Industrial
Facilities
Flexi-desks, Offices, Warehouses
Visas
1-2 visas with desk, multiple office visas .
Time
Registration in 1 day
PROS
More than 8,000 companies from around 165 countries have established their presence in the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone. By utilizing the modern infrastructure and customer-focused services provided by SAIF Zone, businesses can confidently expand and conduct operations in this dynamic commercial hub.
UAE freezone
SAIF Zone provides a variety of benefits that meet the needs of modern businesses, including a prime location, reliable services, efficient operations, diverse industry options, licensing options, and a strong company structure.
The zone is conveniently situated next to the Sharjah International Airport.
Close proximity to the airports and seaports of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, offering unparalleled connectivity to global trade.
With its strategic location, StartBiz Global enable businesses to have an easy access to major countries around the world, making Sharjah an ideal choice for seeking a competitive edge.
UAE freezone
SAIF-
Sharjah Airport
International
Free Zone
SAIF Zone provides a variety of benefits that meet the needs of modern businesses, including a prime location, reliable services, efficient operations, diverse industry options, licensing options, and a strong company structure.
The zone is conveniently situated next to the Sharjah International Airport.
Close proximity to the airports and seaports of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, offering unparalleled connectivity to global trade.
With its strategic location, StartBiz Global enable businesses to have an easy access to major countries around the world, making Sharjah an ideal choice for seeking a competitive edge.
Key Features
Established
1996
Licenses types
Trading, Consultancy, Industrial
Facilities
Flexi-desks, Offices, Warehouses
Visas
1-2 visas with flexi desk, multiple visas with office
Time-frame
Registration in 1 day
PROS
More than 8,000 companies from around 165 countries have established their presence in the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone. By utilizing the modern infrastructure and customer-focused services provided by SAIF Zone, businesses can confidently expand and conduct operations in this dynamic commercial hub.
UAE freezone
Ajman NuVentures Centre Free Zone (ANCFZ) is a newly established free zone in Ajman, UAE, offering swift business setup and a range of services to support entrepreneurs and companies. Businesses can obtain licenses within two hours and process visas within 24 hours, ensuring efficiency. ANCFZ caters to diverse industries, including technology, artificial intelligence, trade, media, and professional services.
With a strategic location connecting key markets in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, it provides excellent opportunities for trade and expansion. The free zone offers flexible licensing options, over 3,500 business activities, and comprehensive support services such as registration, visa facilitation, and legal assistance. This makes ANCFZ an attractive destination for businesses seeking growth in a dynamic and business-friendly environment.
Key Features
Established
2024
Licenses
Commercial, service, freelancer, Trading, E-commerce, Industrial, Trading.
Facilities
Flexi-desks, Offices, Warehouses, Support for SMEs and Startups
Visas
1-2 visas with desk, multiple visas office
Time
Registration 1 day
PROS
Ajman NuVentures Centre Free Zone (ANCFZ) offers a fast setup with licenses in 2 hours and visa processing in 24-48 hours. It provides flexible licensing options, modern facilities, and easy access to key markets. ANCFZ supports small businesses, startups, and freelancers with affordable packages, 100% foreign ownership, and tax advantages, making it a great choice for entrepreneurs and growing businesses.
HAMRIYAH Free Zone
Founded in 1995, Hamriyah Free Zone hosts over 6,000 companies and offers strategic access to Sharjah International Airport and Hamriyah Port. Risepoint Global supports businesses with affordable office spaces and warehouses for successful establishment in this thriving hub.
Established
1995
Licenses Types
Trading, Consultancy, Industrial
Facilities
Flexi-desks, Offices, Warehouses
Visas
Flexi desk or office visas.
Time-frame
Registration 1 day
Ajman Free Zone
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) offers a range of benefits, making it a highly attractive location for businesses. It provides affordable licensing and office space options, making it ideal for startups and small businesses. With flexible licensing choices across commercial, industrial, and service sectors, businesses can find the right fit. AFZ allows 100% foreign ownership, giving international investors full control over their operations. Its strategic location near Ajman Port and key highways ensures easy access to regional markets
Established
1988.
Licenses Types
Trading, Consultancy, Industrial, Freelancer, service, E-commerce
Facilities
Flexi-desks, Offices, Warehouses , Digital Infrastructure, Showrooms
Visas
Employee, Investor, Freelancer and office visas.
Time-frame
2-3 days
SPC- Sharjah Pacific City
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) is the ideal destination for entrepreneurs and investors looking to set up their business in the UAE. With an emphasis on efficiency and flexibility, we provide a simplified and fast company formation process, making us the top choice for those seeking a smooth and hassle-free setup in the UAE.
Established
2017
Licenses Types
Trading, E-commerce , Industrial, Printing , Media Production
Facilities
Flexi-desks, Offices, Warehouses, Bussiness Support
Visas
Multiple visas
Time-frame
3-5 days
UAQ FTZ - Umm Al Quwain Free Zone
Just 30 minutes from Dubai, UAQ attracts global businesses with SME-friendly policies, low costs, and access to affluent markets. Operated by Umm Al Quwain, it offers over 1,500 business options, ensuring stability and strategic positioning in the MENA region.
Established
2014
Licenses Types
Trading, Consultancy, Industrial
Facilities
Flexi-desks, Offices, Warehouses
Visas
Flexi desk or office visas.
Time-frame
Registration 1 day