Free Zone Formation
Free Zone Company Formation in the UAE
Each Free zone is governed by its own authority and offers sector-specific benefits, world-class infrastructure, and quick company registration. With a free zone licence, you can operate within the free zone and internationally, import/export goods with minimal restrictions, and enjoy flexible office and visa options.
Why Choose a Free Zone Company
100% Foreign Ownership
No local partner required.
Favourable Tax Environment
Customs Benefits
Full Profit Repatriation
Wide Range of Activities
From trading and logistics to media, finance, and manufacturing.
Fast Setup
Flexible Office Solutions
Co-working desks, private offices, warehouses, industrial land.
Free Zone Activity Categories
Regulated Activities & External Approvals
Certain free zone activities require additional approvals before a licence is issued:
National Media Council or free zone media authority approval.
Regulatory approval from DFSA, FSRA, or relevant authority.
Approval from KHDA (Dubai) or ADEK (Abu Dhabi).
DHA, DOH, or MOHAP licensing and inspections.
Environmental permits, civil defence approval.
Customs and ministry permits.
Jurisdiction Insights
Common Legal Structures
Company Formation Process
A practical roadmap from selecting your jurisdiction to becoming fully banked and visa-ready.
Select the most suitable free zone based on your industry, target market, and operational needs.
Decide on the legal entity (e.g., FZE, FZCO) and choose the appropriate licence.
Choose a unique company name that meets the free zone’s naming rules and reserve it with the authority.
Complete the company setup application and submit all required documents.
Some business activities need approvals from external government departments or regulators.
Review and sign key documents such as the Memorandum of Association
Once approved, the free zone issues your trade licence and establishment.
Use your licence and corporate documents to open a business bank account with a UAE bank.
Submit visa applications for owners, employees, or dependents according to the visa quota allocated to your company.
Required Documents:
Documents vary depending on whether your shareholders are individuals, corporate entities, or managers assigned to the UAE entity.
- Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
- Passport-sized phOto (white background, recent)
- UAE entry stamp or residence visa page (if applicable)
- Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement not older than 3 months
- NOC from current UAE sponsor (if on existing UAE visa)
- Certificate of Incorporation / Registration Certificate
- Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)
- Board Resolution approving incorporation in UAE free zone and appointing authorised signatory
- Trade Licence or Business Registration Certificate
- Shareholder(s) passport copies
- Power of Attorney for authorised signatory
- Incumbency Certificate (if applicable)
- Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
- Passport-sized photo (white background)
- UAE entry stamp or residence visa page (if applicable)
- Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
- CV (in some free zones for regulated activities)
- Signed lease agreement or flexi-desk allocation letter
- Ejari / tenancy registration (where required by the free zone)
Cost Range & Ongoing Compliance
Understand the typical investment for a UAE setup and the ongoing obligations to keep your licence in good standing.
All corporate documents issued outside the UAE must be notarised, attested by the UAE Embassy in the country of origin, and legalised by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Additional approvals/documents may be required based on the business activity.
- Renew trade licence annually.
- Renew visas before expiry.
- Maintain proper accounts; audits if required by free zone rules.
- Corporate Tax – 9% applies on profits above AED 375,000.
- Follow AML compliance for regulated sectors.
- Operate only within approved activities.
Conclusion
A free zone company offers full ownership, competitive tax rates, and easy market access — making it a powerful option for new and expanding businesses.
SRP CONSULTING manages the entire process — from selecting the right jurisdiction to securing approvals, ensuring your setup is smooth, compliant, and ready for growth.