FREE ZONES BUSINESS FORMATION
UAE Free Zones are attractive jurisdictions for investors seeking 100% ownership of their businesses. The "Free Zone" concept of a has been internationally recognized as a model to promote and develop business in many countries. Below is a list of Free Zone licenses available in the UAE:
UAE Free Zones offer 100% foreign ownership, zero taxes, and allow full repatriation of capital and profits without any restrictions. Additionally, they provide an opportunity to secure UAE residence visas. Free Zones are typically designed for specific types of businesses, so it’s essential to set up your business in the appropriate zone. You can confirm this by consulting with our business setup experts.
1.) Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone
Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone is a new global business address at the heart of Abu Dhabi Airports operations.
Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone is a wholly owned subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Airports. It operates Airports Free Zones, Logistics Park, Business Parks, Business Centers, and One Stop Shop Services. These underpin Abu Dhabi’s plans to establish itself as a dynamic business centre in support of the Abu Dhabi 2030 Economic Vision.
Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone enjoys an excellent relationship with government organizations and public authorities, providing a single point of contact for all tenants.
Under a resolution passed by the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone was mandated to set up Free Zones and provide all the required services at:
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Abu Dhabi International Airport
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Al Ain International Airport
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Al Bateen Executive Jet Airport
Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone’s jurisdiction spreads across more than 10.6 Km2 around Abu Dhabi International Airport, covering five commercial districts:
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Logistics Park
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Business Park
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Destination Village
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Al Falah Free Zone
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Airport City
Services
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Company Registration
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Rapid Visa Processing for Employees
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FZ Employee ID Cards
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Company/Employee Service Letters
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IT And Telecommunication Services
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Facility Leasing Management
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Facility Management
Licensing
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Trade Licenses
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Service Licenses
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Light Industrial Licenses
2.) Ajman Free Zone
Established in 1988, Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) offers outstanding investment opportunities to both local and foreign businessmen and investors. We provide progressive infrastructure and top-of-the-line facilities to foster competitive privileges allowing companies to realize their full potential.
Ajman Free Zone has revolutionized the business sector of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) through its immense initiative in Ajman industrial expansions.
Ajman Free Zone is a haven for all investors and business start-ups from around the world as it offers a complete range of custom-made business solutions for all its stakeholders. İts unwavering integrity, credibility, creativity, and innovation are what put AFZ on the map of marked excellence. AFZ thrives in the fast-paced economic evolution of the UAE, adapting to the ever-changing rules and regulations of the country.
Types of Companies
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Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
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Free Zone Company (FZC)
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Branch of a Local/Foreign Company
Licenses Issued
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Trading License (For All Types of Trading Activities)
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Service License (For Different Types of Service Activities Including Legal Advisory, Management Consultancy, Financial Consultancy etc.)
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Industrial License (For Manufacturing Business)
3.) Dubai Airport Free Zone
Dubai Airport Free Zone ‘DAFZA’ was established by the Government of Dubai in 1996 and has developed to become the region’s fastest growing free zone. It was a part of their strategic plan to move Emirate towards an investment focused economy and is one of the world’s most prestigious, innovative, and advanced free zones in the United Arab Emirates.
Business Set Up in DAFZA offers tax and liability exemptions, full repatriation of earnings, exemptions from all commercial levies, and total business proprietorship. Close to 1,500 companies operate in the Free Zone.
Benefits of Having a Free Zone Company
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100% Business Ownership
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100% Repatriation of Investments and Profits
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100% Tax Exemption
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Access To Multi-Currency Bank Accounts
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Opportunity To Secure UAE Residence Visas
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The Viable Business Environment Around All the Free Zones
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Warehouse Facilities Along with Virtual Office Facilities
4.) Dubai International Financial Centre
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is one of the world’s advanced financial centres, and the leading financial hub of the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.
The DIFC is a Financial Free Zone within the UAE with its own civil and commercial laws as well as its financial services regulator, the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).
Any firm established in the DIFC can have 100% foreign ownership and is subject to a civil, commercial, and regulatory environment similar to that established in the United Kingdom.
DIFC Business Activities – Regulated:
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Banking
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Investment
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Asset and Wealth Management
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Finance
DIFC Business Activities – Non-Regulated:
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Retail and Convenience Stores
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Restaurants
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Art Gallerias
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Operating in DIFC
DIFC is equipped to provide a wide support of services from registration, incorporation, licensing to leasing, and employee sponsorship processes, commercial property ownership, issue resolutions, expansion assistance and client foundation.
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DIFC Offers the Following
Every business has different needs. DIFC designed a variety of spaces so Clients can choose the right one for setting up a business in the heart of Dubai.
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Commercial Spaces
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Co-workers Spaces
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In5 Centres
5.) Dubai Internet City
Dubai Internet City is a center built in a free trade zone area under the umbrella of TECOM Investments Holding, which also incorporates Dubai Media City and Knowledge Village all within close proximity to each other. The three are part of Dubai government’s initiatives to make it the global hub for knowledge and innovation.
Dubai Internet City has now become the center stage for the IT industry. Dubai Internet City is the leading dedicated tech hub, that offers the perfect environment with the right mix of commercial spaces, services, and retail.
DIC has great facilities and world-class infrastructure, an investor-friendly environment, flexible legal structure and an affable ecosystem for global and regional companies and entrepreneurs.
6.) Dubai Media City
Dubai Media City (DMC) was launched in January 2001 to establish Dubai as the region’s leading media hub. DMC encompasses a media community of over 20,000 people working in over 2,000 regional and international media companies that are pushing the limits of creativity every day. DMC is home to many international media and entertainment companies like CNN, CBS, Showtime, and many regional media companies.
Benefits of Having a Free Zone Company
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100% Business Ownership
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100% Repatriation of Investments and Profits
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100% Tax Exemption
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Access To Multi-Currency Bank Accounts
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Opportunity To Secure UAE Residence Visas
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The Viable Business Environment Around All the Free Zones
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Warehouse Facilities Along with Virtual Office Facilities
Types of Licenses
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Free Zone LLC (Limited Liability Company)
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Branch (Of a Local or Foreign Company)
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Freelancing Permits (For Professionals)
7.) Dubai Multi Commodities Centre
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre is the world’s fastest – growing Free Zone in UAE with 15,000 plus registered businesses. It was established in 2002 by the government of Dubai in order to form a business centre for commodity-related businesses. DMCC promotes and facilitates trade across a range of goods from gold, diamonds and precious metals to tea, food, and industrial materials.
Benefits of Having a Free Zone Company
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100% Business Ownership
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100% Repatriation of Investments and Profits
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100% Tax Exemption
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Access To Multi-Currency Bank Accounts
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Opportunity To Secure UAE Residence Visas
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The Viable Business Environment Around All the Free Zones
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Warehouse Facilities Along with Virtual Office Facilities
Types of Licenses Available in DMCC
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General Trading License
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Commercial/Trading License
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Service License
Types of Companies
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Individual Ownership
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Subsidiary Company
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Branch Company
Documents Required
Following are important documents that are required for company formation either branch of a Local or Foreign company or individual business.
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Application Form
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Copy Of Passport, Emirates ID, and UAE Residence Visa
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Summary Of Business Plan
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Office Address In DMCC
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Power Of Attorney for Manager, Director, Secretary and Specimen Signature
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Copies Of Parent Company Documents (In Case of Setting Up a Branch of a Company)
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NOC (No Objection Certificate) From the Sponsor If Holding UAE Residence Visa
8.) Dubai South
Formerly known Dubai World Central (DWC) offers complete turnkey business services and economical office solutions, it is perfectly aligned to suit global business needs. It is the home to the world’s largest airport in the making – the Al Maktoum International Airport and hosts landmark events such as World Expo 2020, which is set to be one of the biggest businesses events the region has ever seen and the Dubai Airshow.
Dubai South –The City of You – is an emerging 145 sq. km. master-planned city based on the happiness of the individual.
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DUBAI SOUTH HAS BEEN DIVIDED INTO THREE DISTRICTS.
1. Aviation District
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Dubai South has a world-class, integrated aviation and aerospace ecosystem that is designed to serve the holistic needs of both industries and related sectors. The Aviation District is developed to provide the complete range of aviation manufacturing related industries, aviation support services, design and consultancy, aviation training, products and parts, research and development, light manufacturing units, Fixed Base Operators, Maintenance Repair & Operations, and high-technology industries. It is being designed as a one-stop shop for all aviation-related setups and future regional headquarters for key corporations in aviation industries.
2. Logistics District
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Dubai South – The City of Supremely Efficient Logistics Solutions. With uninhibited access to seaports, airports and major roads, the Logistics District offers unrivalled speed, connectivity, and flexibility to contract logistics, integrators, freight forwarders, agents, and traders. Ready-to-occupy, build-to-suit solutions are available for all asset classes and include scope for office, manufacturing, research and development, warehousing, logistics and distribution.
3. Business Park
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Business Park Free Zone offers more than just versatile office spaces at competitive prices in a strategic location. Dubai South – Business Park provides an enabling environment in which business can grow rapidly.
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Benefits of Having a Free Zone Company
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100% Business Ownership
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100% Repatriation of Investments and Profits
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100% Tax Exemption
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Access To Multi-Currency Bank Accounts
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Opportunity To Secure UAE Residence Visas
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The Viable Business Environment Around All the Free Zones
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Warehouse Facilities Along with Virtual Office Facilities
Types of Licenses Available in Dubai South
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Service License
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Commercial License
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General Trading License
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Aviation License
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Logistics License
Types of Companies
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DWC LLC/Individual Ownership
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Subsidiary Company
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Branch Company
9.) Fujairah Free Zone
Fujairah is one of the seven emirates of UAE and is situated at a unique and strategic location. As the only Emirate in UAE on East Coast and it plays a vital role in its development. Fujairah has seen drastic growth under the leadership of Sheikh Hamed Bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, the Ruler of Fujairah.
Fujairah Free Zone is also close to Fujairah International Airport which is the only airport serving the UAE East Coast as well as northern Oman. A fortunate combination of geographic location, with access to the world’s major shipping routes, a fine port & airport, and streamlined procedures, make the Free Zone of Fujairah an ideal place for business.
Fujairah Free Zone is right next to the Port of Fujairah. Company formation in the Fujairah Free Zone will give you access to markets nearby. The business setup in Fujairah Free Zone also benefits you greatly as it is close to Fujairah International Airport which the only airport is serving the UAE East Coast. The Emirate of Fujairah is a combination of strategic geographic location with access to the world’s main shipping routes, a fine airport & seaport and streamlined procedures, making the Free Zone of Fujairah the best place for business setup.
Benefits of Having a Free Zone Company
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100% Foreign Ownership of Business Setup in Fujairah Free Zone.
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100% Corporate and Personal Tax Exemption on Company Formation in Fujairah Free Zone.
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100% Repatriation of Capital and Profits on Company Incorporation in Fujairah Free Zone.
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Company Formation in Fujairah Free Zone Will Provide You Exemption from Customs Duties.
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Business Setup Will Give You Access to Fujairah Port and Fujairah International Airport.
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Company Formation in Fujairah Free Zone Will Provide You Access to Regional and Global Markets by Land, Air and Sea.
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Efficient And Cost-Effective Solutions Are Available in Fujairah Free Zone.
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Business Setup in Fujairah Free Zone Will Provide You with Security of Investment.
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Fujairah Free Zone Provides Investor-Friendly Policies for Company Formation.
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Company Formation in Fujairah Free Zone Will Provide You with State-Of-The-Art Facilities.
Types of Licenses Available in DMCC
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Trading And General Trading License
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Warehousing License
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Manufacturing License
10.) Hamriyah Free Zone
Hamriyah Free Zone, UAE’s second largest industrial free zone is spread across approx. 26 million square meters. Established on November 12, 1995, by Emiri Decree No. 6 of 1995, it is home to over 6,500 businesses from 163 countries. In addition to world-class facilities including offices, warehouses, factories and executive office suites, Hamriyah Free Zone also has over 15 on-site key business services, like banking and auditing firms, currency exchanges, conference rooms, staff accommodation, and more.
Uniquely located at the intersection between three continents allowing you to serve a growing market of 1.5 billion people, Hamriyah Free Zone is your gateway to global business.
Benefits of Having a Free Zone Company
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Business Setup in Hamriyah Free Zone Benefits You With 100% Tax-Free Environment.
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Company Incorporation in Hamriyah Free Zone Benefits You With 100% Company Ownership.
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Business Setup in Hamriyah Free Zone Benefits You With 100% Exemption from All Commercial Levies.
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Company Formation in Hamriyah Free Zone Benefits You With 100% Repatriation of Capital and Profits.
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Business Setup in Hamriyah Free Zone Gives You the Benefit of Land Lease For 25 Years Renewable for A Similar Period.
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Hamriyah Free Zone Has Pre-Built Warehouses and Office Units for Lease for Your Business Setup.
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Business Setup Will Provide You Access to Exclusively Designed and Furnished Executive Offices.
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Business Setup in Hamriyah Free Zone Will Benefit You with Affordable Cost of Living.
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Types of Legal Statuses
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Free Zone Establishment (FZE) – 1 Shareholder
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Free Zone Company (FZC) – 2–5 Shareholders
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Branch of a local company
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Branch of an International company
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Types of Licenses and Activities
1. Commercial
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Import, Export, Trading.
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E-Commerce
2. Service
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Business Consultancy
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Management Consultancy
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Marketing Consultancy
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IT Consultancy
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Design Consultancy (Except Engineering Consultancy)
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HR Consultancy
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Tourism Consultancy
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Event Management
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Health & Fitness Consultancy
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Sports Consultancy
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Project Management (Overseas)
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Turnkey Project (Overseas)
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Marine-related activities
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Investment of Own Resources
3. Industrial
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Manufacturing
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Processing
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Packaging
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Assembling
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Fabrication
11.) International Free Zone
IFZA is situated within one of the UAE’s business dynamic gateways. It is a leading free zone that provides local and international businesses, infrastructure and location that optimize the benefits of the UAE’s geographic position and tax-friendly environment.
IFZA provide competitive Free Zone License packages, fast and efficient incorporation and an expert Relationship Manager with up-to-date knowledge of rules and regulations to ensure that the client’s business foundation is laid in a timely and secure manner.
IFZA prides itself on working predominantly with Professional Partners, Corporate Advisors, Law Firms, and Agents alike, making IFZA the only B2B focused Free Zone in the United Arab Emirates.
Why IFZA?
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100% Ownership of Commercial Enterprises.
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100% Repatriation of Capital and Profit.
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100% Import and Export Tax Exemptions.
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No Personal Income Tax.
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A Safe and Business-Friendly Legal Framework for Licensees.
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Full Flexibility for IFZA License Upgrades or Downgrades.
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IFZA Licenses Can Accommodate a Flexible Number of Visas, Subject to Authority Approval.
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Residency Visas Are Valid For 3 Years.
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Residency Visas Available to Shareholders and Employees.
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A Rapidly Growing Business Network of Registered Companies from All Over the World.
12.) Jebel Ali Free Zone
JAFZA is a dynamic base for thousands of businesses, from over 100 countries, sustaining over 135,000 jobs and attracting more than 20% of the UAE’s foreign direct investment. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is the leading business centre in the Middle East, and it focuses on long-term customer relationships. It promotes associations with global investors by providing them world class infrastructure supported with quality driven value-added services and incentives which enables them to take advantage of vast business opportunities in the UAE and the region in the most proficient way.
JAFZA is built around the Jebel Ali Port, which is the world’s largest man-made harbour due to which it is the region’s pioneering business setup initiative. JAFZA started its operations in 1985 and has been effective in attracting inward investment ever since. Today it is one of the main factors which make Dubai and the UAE one of the most favourite spots for investment on the world map. JAFZA has also immensely contributed to the growth of Dubai Port which is the 7th largest container port in the world.
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Business Setup Formation Types in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
JAFZA offers three types of business setup formations depending on the number of shareholders and the nature of the business.
Multiple Shareholders
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Two to 50 shareholders can set up a Free Zone Company (FZCO) in Jebel Ali Free Zone. These shareholders can be individuals (two to 50 people), non-individuals (two to 50 companies) or a combination of both. An FZCO is essentially a Limited Liability Partnership within the Free Zone, with the liabilities of the company limited to the paid-up capital. Two to 50 shareholders can also set up a Public Listed Company (PLC) within the Free Zone. These shareholders can be individuals (two to 50 people), non-individuals (2 to 50 companies) or a combination of both. A PLC is essentially a Limited Liability Partnership within the Free Zone, with the liabilities of the company limited to paid-up capital.
A Single Shareholder
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A single shareholder can register in a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) in Jebel Ali Free Zone whether it is an individual or a company. An FZE is essentially a Limited Liability Company in the Free Zone. An FZC is basically a Limited Liability Partnership within the Free Zone, the liabilities of the company are limited to the paid-up capital. An FZC has a legal character distinct from that of its shareholder and it has the capacity, rights, and privileges of a natural person.
Any Existing Establishment Entity/Branch
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Branches within the Free Zone can be registered by any entity already established outside Jebel Ali Free Zone. A branch is considered a legal entity of its parent company; is 100% owned by the parent company, operates under the same name, and conducts the same business.
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Types of Licenses Offer in JAFZA
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Trading License
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Industrial License
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Service License
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E- Commerce License
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National Industrial License
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Innovation License
License Activities
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Trading
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Services
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Industrial
13.) Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone
RAK FTZ and RAKIA are now part of a larger group, RAK Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
RAKEZ is an Authority established to oversee and consolidate the specialized parks and clients of both Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ) and RAK Investment Authority (RAKIA). RAKEZ, the world-class economic zone, is aimed at offering highly customized facilities and services within an efficient ecosystem in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
Ras Al Khaimah is at a geostrategic location and has an ideal place for business setup as it is near fast-emerging markets in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Europe. It has easy access to an international airport and five seaports including Saqr Port, one of the largest bulk ports of the region.
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Types of Legal Entities to set up business in Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ)
New Establishments
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RAK Free Zone Establishment: A new business entity with its sole business owner.
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RAK Free Zone Company: A new business entity owned by 2 – 5 partners.
Branches
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RAK FTZ Local Branch: A branch of a domestic firm residing in the United Arab Emirates. The parent company should have existed for more than a year (also applicable to a subsidiary company).
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RAK FTZ Foreign Branch: A branch of a foreign firm residing outside the United Arab Emirates. The parent company should have existed for more than a year (also applicable to a subsidiary company).
Types of Licenses Available in RAK FTZ
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RAK FTZ Consulting & Service License and Real Estate License
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RAK FTZ Commercial License
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RAK FTZ Industrial License
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RAK FTZ General Trading License
14.) Sharjah Airport International Free Zone
Sharjah Airport International Free Zone provides some of the most enticing business incentives in the region, including speed of service and simplicity of the process. The perception of lengthy and highly bureaucratic procedures to set up in the Middle East can be a serious barrier to potential investors but SAIF-ZONE has a 24-hour licensing service which enables businesses to be up and running sooner than has ever been possible before.
The customer base is among the largest in the world from one central hub, with access to more than 2 billion people within a four-hour flight and as one of the most dynamic Emirates in the UAE, Sharjah accounts for over a third of the country’s industrial activity. Its links to the rest of the world are accessible and immediate and regardless of where your customers are based, SAIF-ZONE provides you with all the benefits of a personal and corporate tax-free income with no import-export duties.
Versatility has always been one of SAIF-ZONE’s prime objectives. From single office space to entire manufacturing facilities and everything in between, the options are designed to accommodate every business and every scenario. Warehouses, storage areas, container parking, bunkers and labour housing are all available at the lowest costs and highest quality. SAIF Zone offers an unlimited workforce to support your business along with sponsorship and visas for in-house staff to make the transition to a new workplace as smooth as possible.
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LICENSES
Commercial License
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Import, Export, Distribution, consolidation, storage, or warehousing of items specific in the license, Maximum limit is three similar product lines.
General Trading
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A General Trading license can be obtained under a commercial license which allows a large number of products.
Service License
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Service license allows the holder to carry out service specified in the license only. All types of services are allowed unless otherwise restricted by the Federal or local authorities.
Industrial License
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Import of raw materials, manufacturing, processing, assembling, packaging, and exporting the finished product.
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Facilities
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Offices
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Industrial Park
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Land on Lease
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Prebuilt Warehouse
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Temporary Warehouse
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SAIF Zone Labour Accommodation
15.) Sharjah Media City
One of the latest entries into the list of free trade zones in UAE, Sharjah Media City (Shams) acts as a catalyst for the creative and media sector to grow and flourish. The primary objective of Shams free zone is to become a world-class media hub for advanced facilities and services.
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TYPES OF LICENSES
A Shams License is a permit that allows a company to operate within Sharjah Media City (Shams) under specific business activities.
Service License
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It allows for production, re-production, transformation, and distribution of services. Service license includes rendering services as a primary objective and utilizing goods to provide them.
Trading License
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Selling goods within Shams or importing and exporting of goods. It includes the movement of goods, wholesale and retail sale of goods and rendering of services related to the sale of these goods.
Industrial License
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It allows holding standalone assets and/or stakes in other companies. You would require a holding company for the purpose of controlling another company (IES), property such as real estate, patents, trademarks, stock, and other assets.
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Advantages of Company Formation in Shams
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Complete Foreign Ownership
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Highly Economical
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Diverse Activities Available on The Same License
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Complete Repatriation of Capital and Profits
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Up To 6 Visas Allocated on A Shared Desk Facility
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Deposits Not Required
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Can Appoint Corporate Directors and Managers
16.) Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone
Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ) is located in Umm Al Quwain, a friendly, progressive, and prosperous emirate with modern infrastructure. Renowned for its desert landscape and unique flora and fauna, it is also a popular leisure destination within the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and is located just 45km from Dubai.
UAQ FTZ is an ideal location for Micro Businesses, SMEs, and Conglomerates to do business in a safe and secure free trade zone environment and it is one of the most attractive places for your effective investment in the region.
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TYPES OF LICENSES
Commercial License
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This authorises the import, export, distribution and storing of items specified on the license. A Commercial License can have three different product lines or 10 similar product lines.
General Trading License
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This enables the licensee to trade in a wider range of activities and gives the freedom and flexibility to trade in any commodity which is permitted within the UAE.
Industrial License
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This enables the licensee to import raw materials, then manufacture/process/assemble/package the specified products and export the finished product. It allows the holder to import raw materials for the purpose of manufacturing, processing and/or assembly of specified products.
Consultancy License
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This is for entities which offer expert or professional advice and is issued to all manner of professionals including artisans and craftsmen.
Freelance Permit
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This allows an individual to operate as a freelance professional, and conduct business in one’s birth name as opposed to a brand name or company. The Freelance Permit is designed for individuals who operate in technology, media, and film sectors, and is issued to talent roles, creative roles and selected administrative roles.
Services License
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This license is for service providers. It permits the licensee to carry out the services specified on the license within the Free Zone, such as Logistics; Courier Services; Insurance Service Provider; Travel Agency; Tour Services; Car Rental etc.