UAE FREE ZONE COMPANY SETUP

Set up a UAE Free Zone company that fits your real business.

Compare activities, facilities, visa capacity, operating scope and renewal costs before selecting a Free Zone. Fenich Gateway coordinates the agreed formation route with an itemised proposal and personal support.

IS A FREE ZONE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Choose on commercial fit—not the lowest advertised licence fee.

UAE Free Zones offer defined licensing routes and 100% foreign ownership, but their permitted activities, facilities, visa options and operating conditions differ.

We start with what the company will sell, where customers and suppliers are located, how shareholders will work in the UAE and what the bank will need to understand.

WHAT TO COMPARE

Five factors behind a suitable Free Zone choice.

Licensed activities

The exact activity should reflect how the company earns revenue. Some combinations are available under one licence; others require additional approval or a different authority.

Customer and trading model

Consider whether customers are inside or outside the UAE, how goods or services are delivered and whether the planned model requires a Mainland route or local arrangements.

Facility and substance

Flexible facilities, desks, offices and warehouses have different costs and practical uses. Choose a facility that supports the licence, visa allocation and real operation.

Visa allocation

Confirm whether the package is licence-only or includes eligibility for a stated number of residence visas, plus the related establishment and immigration costs.

First year and renewal

Compare the complete initial budget with the expected annual renewal. Temporary discounts should not hide recurring licence or facility charges.

Banking readiness

A Free Zone licence does not guarantee a bank account. Ownership, activity, source of funds, expected transactions and commercial evidence remain important.

OUR PROCESS

From Free Zone comparison to issued licence.

01

Business brief

Activities, owners, markets, facility, visas and expected transactions.

02

Route comparison

Relevant options compared with scope, limitations, first-year cost and renewal.

03

Application

Company name, forms and supporting documents coordinated for submission.

04

Licence and next steps

Issued documents organised with a route for residency, banking and compliance.

COSTS

What affects UAE Free Zone company setup cost?

The total can include registration, trade licence, selected activities, facility, establishment registration, visa allocation, individual visa processing and professional coordination. Regulated activities and corporate shareholders may add approval or documentation costs.

We show government or authority charges separately from our service fee and list optional services before commitment.

Read the UAE company setup cost guide

COMMON QUESTIONS

Free Zone company setup FAQ.

Can a non-resident own a UAE Free Zone company?

Many Free Zone structures allow international shareholders and 100% foreign ownership. Applicant, activity and documentation requirements still apply.

Is a residence visa automatically included?

No. A licence can be offered without an individual visa. Establishment registration, visa allocation and each visa should be identified separately.

How quickly can the licence be issued?

Eligible straightforward applications may be completed quickly once documents, approvals and payment are complete. Final timing is controlled by the authority and is not guaranteed.

Does a Free Zone company pay UAE Corporate Tax?

Free Zone businesses must assess current Corporate Tax registration, filing and record-keeping obligations. Preferential treatment is subject to conditions and should never be assumed from the licence alone.

COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS

Get a Free Zone recommendation with a clear scope.

Tell us your activity, markets, ownership and visa needs. We will help identify suitable routes and explain material limitations before you commit.