Guide to free zones in Dubai

The free zones in Dubai are considered one of the most prominent elements of the success of the UAE’s strategy in attracting investments and developing the economy. These regions have demonstrated their ability to offer a distinctive business environment and competitive advantages to investors from all over the world. This guide covers the most prominent free zones in Dubai, explaining the benefits and opportunities available in each of them, as well as the basic procedures for launching companies in these zones.

By offering incentives such as tax exemptions, the possibility of 100% foreign ownership of companies, and advanced infrastructure, Dubai’s free zones provide an ideal environment for business growth and prosperity. This guide includes an overview of the most popular free zones such as Jebel Ali (JAFZA), Dubai Marina, and Dubai Industrial City, focusing on the unique features of each zone and the services it offers.

The guide will also review how to choose the free zone best suited to your type of business, and the procedures necessary to establish a company, making it easier for investors to understand the options available and make informed decisions. Whether you are looking for new investment opportunities or want to expand your business, this guide will provide you with the information necessary to take advantage of the great potential offered by free zones in Dubai .

Free zones in Dubai

Dubai is the leading emirate in introducing the concept of free zones, as it includes approximately 24 free zones specialized in various fields, including aviation, automobiles, health and information, in addition to financial affairs and trade in gold and precious stones, not to mention trade in goods, printing and production, training, manufacturing, distribution, design and media. Media.

•  Dubai Healthcare City

Dubai Healthcare City is home to more than 80 hospitals and medical clinics operating in accordance with international standards. Among these medical facilities are: Moorfields Eye Hospital, City Hospital, Dr. Hamed Medical Center, Dubai Fertility and Gynecology Center, in addition to Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Center and others.

• Dubai South Dubai South

The Dubai South Free Zone extends over a huge area estimated at about 145 square kilometers, and the Dubai South Economic Zone supports all types of businesses and industries, in addition to its inclusion of the huge Al Maktoum International Airport, and this region is hosting the International Expo, which makes it one of the most important free zones in the Emirates.

• Jebel Ali Free Zone

The importance of the Jebel Ali Free Zone lies not only in the fact that it is one of the largest free zones in the world, but also in that it provides foreigners with the opportunity to own 100% in private companies, without imposing tax fees on companies, or customs on imported raw materials and equipment, as taxes are imposed Only on exports and imports, making it Dubai’s number one free zone for foreign businessmen.

• Dubai Airport Freezone

Since its establishment in 1996, the Dubai Airport Free Zone has become one of the most important free zones in Dubai for various commercial and industrial businesses, as the industries and trades are diversified, to include automobile trade, fashion, and style. It also hosts many telecommunications, information, and other companies, which makes the decision to establish a company in the zone Duty Free at Dubai Airport is a successful move.

•  Dubai Internet City

We cannot talk about free zones in Dubai without mentioning Dubai Internet City, which is the largest area with technology infrastructure in the Middle East. Dubai Internet City was established in a free zone with the aim of supporting the business of global and regional telecommunications and information companies.

• Dubai Studio City

Dubai Studio City, which extends over an area of ​​22 million square feet, provides a business environment that meets various talent requirements, including supporting and developing broadcast, television, film and music production companies in the Middle East. It also hosts more than 288 companies and studios, including MBC Studios.

•  Dubai International Financial Centre

The Dubai International Financial Center, which is considered one of the most important free zones in Dubai, aims to support financial and banking services institutions and companies, in addition to unleashing their potential and activities. This center also includes more than 750 international companies, as it has become a center for the most famous and prominent international financial services companies.

•  Dubai World Trade Centre

The Dubai World Trade Center was opened in 1979 to be one of the most important free zones in Dubai, which played a fundamental role in supporting the growth and development of global trade in the Middle East. This free zone aims to strengthen the position of the Dubai World Trade Center as a base for various international companies.

•  Dubai Media City

Dubai Media City is considered the largest free zone in the Middle East and North Africa to support the thriving media and business sector, as it currently hosts more than 1,500 headquarters of the largest media companies from around the world.

•  Gold & Diamond Park

The Gold and Diamond Park is considered one of the most famous free zones in the Emirates, since its establishment in 2011. It is not only a market for selling jewelry to customers, but also an opportunity for office owners to rent their properties to merchants.

•  Dubai Multi Commodities Centre

This center is a government initiative developed to create a market for commodities in Dubai, as the Dubai Multi Commodities Center is the headquarters for markets specialized in industry, gold and precious metals, including gems, diamonds, etc., and provides them with complete facilities that facilitate their work.

The Dubai Commodities Center Free Zone has expanded its scope of activity to include service companies and offices representing foreign companies.

•  Dubai Production City

Dubai Production City, which was established in 2003, includes about 170 companies in various production sectors, including publishing, printing, and packaging. It provides them with a full-service business environment equipped with the latest and finest facilities that meet their needs, making it one of the most important free zones in Dubai currently.

• Dubai Design District

Dubai Design District was established with the aim of unleashing talent in the fashion, design and luxury industries sectors in the emirate. This district also plays a pivotal role in achieving the goals of the Dubai Tourism Vision 2020, which seeks to attract more than 20 million visitors annually.

Steps to establish a company in the free zones in Dubai

Establishing a company in the free zones in Dubai includes a set of organized steps aimed at facilitating the establishment process and ensuring compliance with all laws and regulations. Here are the basic steps to establish a company in the free zones in Dubai:

1. Select Business: Choose the type of business you want to do. Free zones in Dubai offer various options that include commercial, industrial, and service activities. The activity must be specified precisely because it affects the type of license required.
2. Choosing the right free zone: There are many free zones in Dubai, each of which offers special benefits and services. Choose the area that suits your business type and needs, such as Jebel Ali (JAFZA), Dubai Marina, or Dubai Industrial City.
3. Preparing the required documents: Prepare the basic documents, which include a passport, education certificates, and a CV. Some free zones may require additional documents such as business plans or a feasibility study.
4. Choosing a company name: Choose a business name for your company that complies with the laws and guidelines of the free zone. Make sure the name is not already in use and is appropriate for the type of activity.
5. Submit a license application: Submit an application to obtain a commercial license from the responsible authority in the free zone you have chosen. The application includes information about the business activity, partners, and required documents.
6. Signing the lease contract: Sign a lease contract for the office or facility in the free zone. The contract specifies details of the space, available facilities, and the time period for rent.
7. Receiving the license: After reviewing all documents and meeting the requirements, the responsible authority will issue the commercial license for your company. Make sure you receive all official documents and licenses.
8. Residency and Employment Visas: Apply for residence and employment visas for employees. Most free zones provide visa facilitation services.
9. Open a bank account: Open a business bank account for your company. Some banks provide dedicated services to companies in free zones, and you must have the license and other documents to open the account.
10. Starting a business: After completing all the steps, receiving the license, and having all the documents available, you can start your business and begin implementing your operations.

Costs of establishing a company in the free zones in Dubai

The costs of establishing a company in the free zones in Dubai vary based on a number of factors, but can be summarized in the following points:

1. License cost: This cost includes the fee for obtaining the appropriate business license for the type of activity you wish to undertake. These fees vary based on the type of license and free zone.
2. Office or facility lease: Establishing a company in free zones requires signing a lease contract for an office or facility. The rental cost depends on the size of the office and its location in the free zone.
3. Administrative and establishment fees: include fees associated with administrative procedures such as registration, authentication of documents, and issuance of necessary certificates.
4. Visa costs: Includes the costs of issuing residence and employment visas for employees and partners. These costs may vary depending on the number of people and visa details required.
5. Additional services costs: include additional services such as secretarial services, legal consultations, and accounting. You may need to hire additional services to support company operations.
6. Opening a bank account: Opening a business bank account includes an administrative fee from the bank, in addition to any other requirements related to managing the account.
7. Insurance: Some companies may need special insurance such as property insurance or health insurance for employees, and this depends on the type of activity and the requirements of the free zone.
8. Equipment and infrastructure: These costs include purchasing or renting the office and technical equipment necessary to operate the company.

Advantages of free zones in Dubai

Dubai’s free zones have a number of advantages that make them an attractive destination for investors and entrepreneurs. Here are the most important advantages of investing in these areas:

• Tax exemptions: Dubai free zones offer complete exemption from income tax and corporate tax, which helps companies reduce costs and increase profitability.
• Full foreign ownership: Free zones allow foreigners to 100% own companies without the need for a local partner, providing complete control over business operations.
• Ease of establishing companies: Free zones provide simplified and quick establishment procedures, making it easier for investors to start their businesses without administrative complications.
• Advanced infrastructure: The free zones have a modern infrastructure that includes offices, warehouses, and industrial facilities, which supports business and provides a suitable work environment.
• Accelerating customs clearance procedures: Free zones provide facilities for clearing goods and shipments quickly and efficiently, which helps improve logistics operations.
• Low costs: Free zones offer multiple options for company licenses at competitive prices, which contributes to reducing operating costs.
• Government support: Companies in free zones enjoy significant government support that includes administrative guidance, consultations, and assistance in legal and financial matters.
• Ease of obtaining visas: Free zones facilitate the procedures for obtaining residence and employment visas, which enhances the ease of hiring and bringing in employees.
• Extensive business network: Free zones provide a wide network of companies and investors, providing opportunities for cooperation and business partnerships.
• Stable and safe commercial environment: Dubai’s free zones are characterized by a stable and safe commercial environment, which enhances confidence and investment in the market.
• Strategic location: Most free zones are located in strategic locations near ports and airports, which facilitates access to global markets and enhances shipping and distribution efficiency.

At the conclusion of our article about the guide to free zones in Dubai , we find that these zones represent one of the basic pillars that contribute to strengthening the economic and investment environment in the city. Dubai’s free zones, thanks to their unique advantages such as tax exemptions, full foreign ownership, and modern infrastructure, provide ample opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs to establish and operate their projects flexibly and efficiently.

A zone such as Jebel Ali (JAFZA), along with other free zones such as Dubai South and Dubai Industrial City, allows investors to benefit from Dubai’s strategic location, and achieve growth and expansion thanks to government support and advanced infrastructure. These free zones are not only an ideal destination for international companies, but also provide a stimulating environment for ambitious local companies seeking innovation and expansion.

With facilities such as flexible licensing, logistical facilities, and comprehensive support services, Dubai free zones remain a strategic choice for investors looking for an ideal business environment. So, if you are thinking about investing or starting a new business, exploring options in these areas could be a crucial step towards achieving your business and financial goals.

The most important frequently asked questions about free zones in Dubai