The UAE is a global business hub, attracting entrepreneurs with its tax-free incentives, 100% foreign ownership, and world-class infrastructure. Free zones are particularly popular because they offer fast setup, full profit repatriation, and zero import/export duties.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best free zones in the UAE for different business types, along with costs, benefits, and key features.

Why Set Up a Business in a UAE Free Zone?

100% Foreign Ownership – No need for a local sponsor
Tax Exemptions – No corporate or income tax (0% for up to 50 years in some zones)
Easy Company Formation – Fast registration (some in 1-2 days)
Customs & Duty Benefits – No import/export taxes
Flexible Office Options – Virtual desks, flexi-spaces, and warehouses available.

Top 11 UAE Free Zones for Business:

1.Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) – Best for Trading & Startup

• Location: Dubai
• License Cost: AED 15,000 – AED 50,000
Ideal for commodities, fintech, and general trading
Fastest-growing free zone (30,000+ companies)
Offers co-working spaces & startup support

2. Dubai Internet City (DIC) – Best for Tech & IT Companies

• Location: Dubai
• License Cost: AED 15,000 – AED 30,000
Home to Google, Microsoft, and LinkedIn
Perfect for software, AI, and digital startups
Visa-friendly policies for tech talent

3. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) – Best for Logistics & Manufacturing

• Location: Dubai
• License Cost: AED 30,000 – AED 50,000
Largest free zone in the Middle East
Direct access to Jebel Ali Port (global trade hub)
Best for import/export, warehousing, and industrial businesses

4. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)– Best for Fintech & Banking

• Location: Abu Dhabi
• License Cost: AED 20,000 – AED 100,000
Regulated financial hub (like Dubai’s DIFC)
0% corporate tax for 50 years
Ideal for crypto, hedge funds, and fintech startups

5. Sharjah Media City (Shams) – Best for Media & Creative Businesses

• Location: Sharjah
• License Cost: AED 10,000 – AED 25,000
Affordable licensing for freelancers & SMEs
Fast setup (24-hour registration)
Great for content creators, influencers, and marketing agencies

6. RAK Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO) – Best for Web3 & Blockchain

• Location: Ras Al Khaimah
• License Cost: AED 15,000 – AED 30,000
First free zone dedicated to Web3 & digital assets
No corporate tax + crypto-friendly regulations
Best for NFT, metaverse, and blockchain startups

7. Fujairah Creative City – Best for Low-Cost Business Setup

• Location: Fujairah
• License Cost: AED 8,500 – AED 15,000
Cheapest free zone in the UAE
No physical office required (virtual license option)
Popular for consulting, e-commerce, and freelancers

8. Dubai South (DWC) – Best for Aviation & E-Commerce

• Location: Dubai
• License Cost: AED 15,000 – AED 30,000
Near Al Maktoum Airport (future mega-airport)
E-commerce &logistics-friendly policies
Includes residential & commercial facilities

9. Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) – Best for SMEs & Low-Cost Manufacturing

• Location: Ajman
• License Cost: AED 10,000 – AED 20,000
Affordable warehouse & office spaces
Easy visa processing
Good for light manufacturing, trading, and services

10. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) – Best for Finance & Legal Firms

• Location: Dubai
• License Cost: AED 40,000 – AED 200,000+
Prestigious financial hub (like London or Singapore)
Common law jurisdiction (not UAE civil law)
Best for banks, hedge funds, and law firms

11. Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) – Best for Low-Cost Business Setup

• Location: Sharjah
• License Cost: AED 6,000 – AED 15,000
Cheapest free zone in the UAE
No physical office required (virtual license option)
Popular for consulting, e-commerce, and freelancers

Free Zones Cost Comparison Table:

How to Choose the Right Free Zone?

1. Industry-Specialized Zones (e.g., DIC for tech, ADGM for finance)
2. Budget (Fujairah is cheapest, DIFC is premium)
3. Visa Requirements (Some offer more visas at lower costs)
4. Office Flexibility (Virtual desk vs. physical office)
5. Future Expansion (Some zones allow mainland operations)

Need help deciding? Let us know your business type, and we will recommend the best free zone for you!

About Easy Step:

Easy Step Consultancy established in 2014 in UAE, where turning your entrepreneurial dreams into reality is as easy as it gets! We are your trusted partners in navigating the dynamic world of business setup and growth. With a deep understanding of the industry and an unwavering commitment to excellence, we simplify the complexities so you can focus on what truly matters—your vision.

At Easy Step, we specialize in hassle-free company formation, offshore setups, licensing solutions, tailored business strategies, Investment Management and all kind of business services. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or an established enterprise, our expert team ensures every step is smooth, professional, efficient, and transparent.
Contact us now to start your company formation journey in UAE.