Free zone company licence in the UAE
A free zone company is licensed by a free zone authority and suits many international, service and trading businesses. It offers flexible office options, foreign ownership and visa packages linked to your setup.
How a free zone company works
Each free zone has its own authority, rules, activity list and packages. Companies are usually registered as an FZE (single shareholder) or an FZCO (several shareholders), depending on the zone.
Free zones are designed for business that serves international clients or operates inside the zone. Trading directly with the UAE mainland market can be limited or may need a distributor, a mainland licence or a dual-licence route, depending on the zone and the activity.
Benefits of a free zone licence
Foreign ownership
Most free zones allow full foreign ownership.
Flexible offices
Choose a flexi-desk, shared office or dedicated space in many zones.
Residency visas
Visa allocations depend on the package and office type.
Tax position
Qualifying free zone persons can benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, subject to conditions.
Remote-friendly
Many zones allow digital onboarding and e-signatures.
Business focus
Zones specialise in sectors such as technology, media, logistics and trading.
Free zone vs mainland at a glance
| Free zone | Mainland | |
|---|---|---|
| Local market trading | Often limited or needs extra permit | Generally allowed within activity |
| Office | Often flexible | Usually required |
| Ownership | Commonly 100% foreign | Many activities allow 100% |
| Best for | International, service, trading | Customers in the UAE |
How we set up your free zone company
Shortlist zones
We compare zones for your activity, visas and budget.
Proposal
You receive a clear written proposal with costs.
Application
Documents, name approval and licence application.
Licence and tenancy
Pay fees, sign the lease or flexi-desk agreement.
Visas and bank
Residency visas, Emirates ID and bank account guidance.
What to consider before choosing a zone
- Is your activity allowed in the zone?
- Do you need to sell inside the UAE?
- How many visas do you need?
- Do you need physical space or only a registered address?
- What are the annual renewal costs?
Compare free zones
See popular UAE free zones and what each is commonly used for.
Message a consultantRelated pages
Choose the zone that fits your team
Activity, visas and office needs decide the right zone. Talk it through with a specialist before you pay.
Compare zones with meFrequently asked questions
Can a foreigner own 100% of a free zone company?
In most free zones, yes. The exact rules depend on the zone and the activity.
Can a free zone company trade in the mainland?
It depends on the zone and activity. Some routes use a distributor, a mainland licence or a dual licence. We confirm the route for your case.
Do I get a residency visa?
Visa allocations are linked to the package and the office you choose. We tell you the allowance before you commit.
Is a free zone company taxed?
UAE corporate tax applies, with a 0% rate on qualifying income for qualifying free zone persons and 9% otherwise. Confirm your position with your tax adviser.
Ready to get started?
Tell us about your plan and we reply with the recommended route, an itemised proposal and the next steps.