Business Setup In Dubai Free Zones

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Business Setup In Dubai Free Zones

Dubai is considered one of the most attractive business destinations in the world, and free zones offer businesses an even more favorable environment for setup. These free zones are created to encourage foreign investment, promote economic growth, and simplify business in Dubai. The process of setting up a business in Dubai free zones involves:

  • Selecting the correct free zone.
  • Determining the business activity.
  • Choosing a legal entity.
  • Reserving a trade name.
  • Obtaining initial approval.
  • Obtaining a license.
  • Renting office space.
  • Opening a bank account.
  • Applying for visas.
  • Commencing operations.

Dubai’s free zones present a unique opportunity for investors, but navigating the business setup process can be overwhelming. Business Diaries can assist with selecting the correct free zone, determining the suitable business activity, choosing the legal entity, reserving a trade name, obtaining approvals and licenses, renting office space, opening a bank account, applying for visas, and launch operations. Thus, with the help of Business Diaries, entrepreneurs can unlock the potential of Dubai free zones and establish a thriving business presence in the UAE.

Most Preferred Areas for Business Setup in Dubai Free Zones

 

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is a significant Middle Eastern financial center known for its business-friendly atmosphere and world-class infrastructure. The DIFC is known for its pro-business policies, which have attracted many international companies to set up a presence in the region. The DIFC offers businesses various support services, including access to legal and financial advisors, networking opportunities, and a dedicated business development team. As a result, the DIFC has become a hub for financial and professional services, and businesses that choose to establish a presence in the center can benefit from a favorable business environment and a broad range of resources. 

International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)

The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) is one of the newest free zones in Dubai, offering a range of benefits to investors looking to set up a business in the UAE. The IFZA provides a wide range of business activities and allows 100% foreign ownership, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs. Setting up a business in the IFZA involves:

  • Selecting the appropriate business activity.
  • Reserving a trade name.
  • Obtaining initial approval.
  • Obtaining a license.
  • Renting office space.
  • Opening a corporate bank account.
  • Applying for visas.

The IFZA also offers support services, such as access to legal and financial advisors, networking opportunities, and flexible lease options. As a result, businesses that choose to establish a presence in the IFZA can benefit from a favorable business environment and a broad range of resources.

Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)

Dubai Silicon Oasis is a tech park in Dubai designed to facilitate regional innovation and entrepreneurship. The park provides various facilities and services, including office space, residential areas, commercial areas, and educational institutions. Setting up a business in DSO involves:

  • Selecting the appropriate business activity.
  • Obtaining approvals and licenses.
  • Renting office space.
  • Applying for visas.

DSO also offers various support services, including access to legal and financial advisors, networking opportunities, and a dedicated business development team. As a result, businesses that establish a presence in DSO can benefit from a favorable business environment and a broad range of resources to support their growth and development.

Dubai South Free Zone(DSF)

Dubai South Free Zone is a new and emerging free zone in Dubai designed to support the growth of businesses in various sectors, including aviation, logistics, and e-commerce. Business Diaries can provide access to legal and financial advisors, networking opportunities, and a dedicated business development team to support businesses in establishing their presence in DSO.

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) is one of the leading free zones in Dubai, UAE, and a hub for business activity. It offers numerous benefits to companies looking to set up in the UAE. Setting up a business in DAFZA involves

  • choosing a business activity,
  • selecting a company structure,
  • obtaining a license.

It is essential to ensure compliance with the regulations of the free zone and obtain all necessary approvals before commencing business operations. Business Diaries can simplify the process and provide a smooth setup in the Dubai Airport Freezone to offer an excellent business environment for companies aiming to expand their operations in the UAE and the broader Middle East region.

Dubai Internet City (DIC)

Dubai Internet City (DIC) is a leading technology business hub in the UAE, established in 2000 to support the growth of the ICT sector in the region. Depending on their business activity, companies can choose from different licenses, including commercial, service, and e-commerce licenses. DIC offers state-of-the-art infrastructure and advanced business services, making it an attractive destination for technology-focused companies. Dubai Internet City provides an excellent business environment for technology-focused companies looking to expand their operations in the UAE and beyond.

Dubai Knowledge Village (DKV)

Dubai Knowledge Village (DKV) is a free zone in Dubai dedicated to the education and training sector. Established in 2003, DKV offers a range of benefits to businesses looking to set up in the UAE. Setting up a business in DKV involves:

  • Choosing a business activity.
  • Selecting a company structure.
  • Obtaining a license.
  • Securing an office space.

Depending on their business activity, companies can choose from different licenses, including commercial, service, and e-commerce licenses. 

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre(DMCC)

DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) is a free zone located in the heart of Dubai, dedicated to promoting international trade in various industries, including commodities, energy, and precious metals. Moreover, It is one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing free zones, with over 18,000 registered companies. Companies must follow a simple process to set up a business in DMCC. This includes submitting the necessary documents, such as a business plan and passport copies, to the DMCC authority, obtaining a trade license. Business Diaries has extensive knowledge and experience in the local business environment and can guide the legal and regulatory requirements of setting up and running a business in the UAE.

Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority(JAFZA)

Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority(JAFZA) is one of the largest and most established free zones in Dubai, located in the Jebel Ali area. It is a leading business hub providing world-class infrastructure, facilities, and services to various industries. JAFZA offers an attractive option for companies establishing and growing their businesses in Dubai. The free zone provides a supportive and business-friendly environment, world-class infrastructure, and a range of support services, making it a prime location for companies in various industries.

Dubai Science Park (DSP)

Dubai Science Park (DSP) is a free zone in Dubai dedicated to the science and technology industry, providing state-of-the-art infrastructure to companies involved in research, development, and innovation. In addition to setting up a business in DSP, companies can also benefit from the various business and networking opportunities offered by the free zone. DSP hosts multiple events and conferences throughout the year, providing opportunities for companies to connect with potential partners, investors.

Dubai Outsource City (DOC)

Dubai Outsource City (DOC) is a free zone in Dubai that is designed explicitly for outsourcing and IT companies. Setting up a business in Dubai Outsource City can provide many benefits for companies in this industry, such as a strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and a favorable business environment. It’s important to note that the exact requirements and procedures for setting up a business in Dubai Outsource City may vary depending on the type of business entity you choose and other factors. 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What types of companies can be set up in Dubai-free zones?

Various types of companies can be set up in Dubai free zones, including

  • Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC),
  • branch office,
  • representative office, and
  • free zone establishment (FZE).

Can a Dubai free zone company operate outside the free zone?

Yes, a Dubai free zone company can operate outside the free zone and even have offices or branches in other parts of Dubai or the UAE. However, there may be certain restrictions or requirements depending on the type of activity and license.

How long does setting up a business in the Dubai free zone take?

The time to set up a company in a Dubai Free Zone can vary depending on the type of company and the Free Zone in which it will be established. However, the process typically takes between 2-4 weeks. Although some Free Zones offer fast-track services that can expedite the process.

What are the costs of setting up a company in a Dubai Free Zone?

The costs associated with setting up a company in a Dubai Free Zone can vary. Some typical costs include registration fees, license fees, visa fees, office rent, and other related expenses.