Popular UAE free zones compared
The UAE has dozens of free zones across the seven emirates. Each has its own rules, activities, packages and renewal costs. This list shows what each is commonly used for.
Free zones at a glance
| Free zone | Emirate | Commonly used for |
|---|---|---|
| IFZA | Dubai | Small businesses, consultants, trading and general commercial activities |
| DMCC | Dubai | Commodities, trading and many service businesses |
| DAFZA | Dubai | Trading, logistics and aviation-related, near Dubai airport |
| JAFZA | Dubai | Industrial, logistics and trading, near Jebel Ali port |
| Meydan Free Zone | Dubai | Consultants, e-commerce and general services |
| Dubai South | Dubai | Aviation, logistics and e-commerce |
| Dubai Internet City | Dubai | Technology and software |
| Sharjah Media City (Shams) | Sharjah | Media, creative, consulting and general activities |
| SAIF Zone | Sharjah | Trading and light industrial |
| Ajman Free Zone | Ajman | Trading, services and small businesses |
| RAKEZ | Ras Al Khaimah | Commercial, industrial and services |
| Fujairah Free Zone | Fujairah | Trading and shipping-related |
| UAQ Free Trade Zone | Umm Al Quwain | Trading, light industrial and startups |
| KEZAD | Abu Dhabi | Industrial and logistics |
| twofour54 | Abu Dhabi | Media, content and creative |
| Masdar City Free Zone | Abu Dhabi | Clean technology, sustainability and innovation |
Focus areas are indicative. Each free zone sets its own activities, packages and rules, and they can change. We confirm current details for your case.
How to choose a free zone
- Confirm your activity is permitted in the zone
- Compare package price and annual renewal
- Check the visa allowance and office requirement
- Ask whether you can serve UAE customers and how
- Consider location, banking and ease of onboarding
Get a shortlist
Tell us your activity and visa needs and we shortlist the best zones with costs.
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Free zones across the whole UAE
From Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah, each zone serves different activities and budgets. We shortlist the best fit.
Shortlist free zones for meFrequently asked questions
Which free zone is the cheapest?
Costs change and depend on activity, visas and office type. We compare current packages for your plan instead of quoting one price for all.
Can I move from one free zone to another?
Yes, but it normally means cancelling and re-registering. It is easier to choose well at the start.
Do all free zones give residency visas?
Most do, linked to the package and office. Allowances differ.
Can a free zone company open a bank account?
Yes, subject to the bank's approval. We help prepare your file.
Ready to get started?
Tell us about your plan and we reply with the recommended route, an itemised proposal and the next steps.