Explore our complete UAE free zones directory: features, perks, and more.
What is a Free Zone?
A UAE free zone is a special economic area created to make it easier for businesses to set up and operate. Majority of these free zones follow the law of the UAE with the exception of ADGM and DIFC whereby these jurisdictions adopt the English Common Law.
What is a Free Zone Company?
A free zone company is a business that is registered and licensed by a UAE free zone authority (instead of a mainland Department of Economy & Tourism / DED). It’s a legal entity that operates under that free zone’s rules and regulations.
Freezones at a Glance:
Fast setup
Doesn’t require physical office space
Selling or servicing to businesses (B2B models)
Direct sales into the UAE mainland may need extra steps/approvals depending on your activity
Permit to sell in Mainland can be obtained at an additional cost of AED 10,000 annually and can be renewed. (NB: only for Dubai Mainland)
Industry clusters: Many free zones are sector-focused (tech, media, logistics, healthcare, finance), with relevant ecosystems and facilities.
Customs/logistics advantages: Some free zones offer strong import/export and warehousing infrastructure, and customs benefits within the zone (especially for trading).
Dubai Free Zones
Abu Dhabi Free Zones
Ras Al Khaimah Free Zones
Sharjah Free Zones
Ajman Free Zones
Umm Al Quwain Free Zones
Fujairah Free Zones
Dubai Free Zones
DMCC - Dubai Multi Commodities Centre
Key Advantages
Well-established and internationally recognized free zone
Large ecosystem of international corporates
Strong regulatory and compliance standards
High acceptance with local and international banks
Modern office towers in JLT with good transport access
Best For
Commodity and general trading companies
Family Offices and Holding Companies
Key Considerations
100% foreign ownership and full profit repatriation
Visas available based on office or flexi-desk size
Business plan and clearer structure often requested for complex activities
Good for owners who prioritize reputation and banking over lowest cost
IFZA – International Free Zone Authority
IFZA provides flexible, cost-effective licensing for services, consulting, trading, and light commercial activities in Dubai Silicon Oasis. It suits SMEs and startups with remote-friendly processes and wide activities.
Key Advantages
Fast processing
Professional, Commercial and Industrial activities can be combined under one IFZA License
Attract International investors to Dubai
International Free Zone Community
Wide range of professional and commercial activities
Access to world-class training and courses that support 360-degree knowledge support around business through the IFZA Academy®
Best For
Micro, small and medium scale enterprises
Multi-license Entrepreneurs
Key Considerations
100% foreign ownership
Flexi-desk or office required for visas
Additional documents may be requested for higher-risk sectors
Good choice if you want a balance of cost, flexibility, and Dubai location
DIFC – Dubai International Financial Centre
DIFC is a top financial free zone under English Common Law, home to banks, fintech, wealth managers, and consultancies with DFSA oversight. It offers premium infrastructure for regulated and non-regulated firms.
Key Advantages
English Common Law legal system
Regulated by DFSA with global credibility
Premium infrastructure & high-end offices
Strong banking acceptance and global reputation
Supports regulated and non-regulated activities
Best For
Investment firms & wealth managers
Fintech & digital asset providers (licensed)
Corporate HQs & advisory firms
Family offices & holding structures
Key Considerations
Higher setup cost than most free zones
Detailed compliance & reporting required
Mandatory physical office lease
Ideal for firms needing global-level recognition
Key Advantages
Direct connectivity to Jebel Ali Port
Warehouses, industrial units, and office buildings
Integrated customs and logistics processes
Strong reputation among global industrial and trading firms
Ability to handle large-scale, long-term projects
Best For
Import/export and regional distribution hubs
Manufacturing and assembly operations
Logistics, 3PL, and warehousing companies
Multinationals building a GCC or MENA hub
Key Considerations
Facility lease (warehouse/land/office) required for most structures
Industrial and environmental approvals needed for certain activities
More suitable for established businesses than solo freelancers
Meydan Free Zone
Meydan offers fully digital setup with flexibility, a prestigious Dubai address, and no large office needed for all structures. It supports consulting, media, digital services, trading, and suits remote founders.
Key Advantages
100% online application and document signing
Large selection of professional and commercial activities
Attractive Dubai address without needing a large physical office
Quick license issuance and renewals
Suitable for small teams and remote-first models
Best For
Consultants, coaches, and advisors
Digital & online businesses
Creative and marketing agencies
Small general trading or service companies
Key Considerations
100% foreign ownership
Flexi-desk or equivalent needed for visa allocation
Business description should clearly match chosen activities
Works well for founders abroad who plan to relocate later
DSO – Dubai Silicon Oasis
DSO is a tech innovation hub integrating commercial, residential, and academic sectors for IT, engineering, software, and R&D. It provides affordable offices, labs, and collaboration incentives.
Key Advantages
Tech-focused environment & infrastructure
Access to labs, incubators, and R&D facilities
Strong talent pool & academic integration
Modern offices at competitive pricing
Attractive for long-term tech innovation
Good mid-range cost alternative to DIFC
Best For
Software development & IT service firms
Engineering & hardware design companies
R&D and innovation-focused entities
Tech startups needing scalable space
DAFZ – Dubai Airport Free Zone
DAFZ sits next to Dubai International Airport, built for air cargo, high-value goods, and time-sensitive shipments with secure customs integration.
Key Advantages
Direct access to Dubai International Airport cargo facilities
High-security environment with integrated customs
Premium office and warehouse infrastructure
Strong reputation with regulators and banks
Best For
Electronics and tech hardware traders
Pharmaceutical and medical supply distributors
Aviation and aircraft service providers
Express logistics and high-value goods companies
Key Considerations
Facility lease (office or warehouse) usually required
Higher running costs compared to many other free zones
Industrial or product approvals needed for restricted goods
Dubai South Free Zone
Dubai South is a logistics hub around Al Maktoum Airport near Jebel Ali Port.
Key Advantages
Strategic location near Al Maktoum International Airport
Good access to both sea and air freight routes
Warehouses, land plots, and offices available
Modern infrastructure with room to scale
License issuance can be as fast as 4 hours
24/7 Customer service
Security approvals (when needed) can be expedited at no cost
Best For
Designed for logistics and aviation sectors
E-commerce fulfilment and Third Party Logistic providers
Regional distribution and warehousing
Aviation logistics and related services
Light manufacturing and assembly operations
DHCC - Dubai Healthcare City
DHCC is a healthcare free zone for clinics, diagnostics, labs, pharma, and wellness under Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA). It provides medical-grade infrastructure for medical tourism and clinical services.
Key Advantages
Only medical Freezone in Dubai
Supports with obtaining Dubai Health Authority approvals.
Strong regulatory oversight via DHCA
Approved DHCA Offices available
Access to Metro Stations
Best For
Clinics & medical specialists
Diagnostic & pathology labs
Wellness, rehabilitation & therapy centers
Pharmaceutical & medical equipment companies
Key Considerations
Office location must be approved by DHCA
DIC – Dubai Internet City
DIC is a key tech hub hosting multinationals, startups, and IT providers with mature ecosystems for software, cloud, AI, and consulting.
Key Advantages
Home to global tech companies
Enterprise-grade infrastructure & offices
Strong ecosystem & networking opportunities
Great access to regional talent
Ideal for scaling tech operations
Best For
Software, cloud, and cybersecurity firms
IT consultancies & system integrators
Growing tech startups
Regional headquarters for global tech brands
Key Considerations
Premium commercial leasing required
Regulated cluster under TECOM
Strong banking acceptance
Suited for companies planning medium/long-term UAE presence
DTEC - Dubai Technology Entrepreneurship Campus
Dtec is an integrated entrepreneurial ecosystem and freezone.
Key Advantages
Tech-focused environment & infrastructure
Access to Founder-focused startup Programs
Hosts training workshops, networking and in-house events for their registered business ecosystem
Best For
Tech companies
Ecosystem of entrepreneurs
Key Considerations
Limited to tech activities
Dubai CommerCity
Dubai CommerCity is the first and leading free zone dedicated exclusively to digital commerce in the Middle East Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region.
Key Advantages
Easy custom clearance and delivery
Strategically located near Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Affordable storage facilities
Shared warehousing solutions managed by trusted logistics partners
24/7 Customer service
All facilities management and housekeeping are included (for office rentals)
Best For
E-commerce fulfilment centers
DWTC - Dubai World Trade Centre
DWTC Free Zone offers a premium and strategically located regulatory framework for companies seeking a prestigious presence in Dubai. The zone is designed to cater to a wide range of business activities including family office setups, making it ideal for private wealth and estate management under a regulated environment.
Key Advantages
Prestigious location in the heart of Dubai (located near DIFC and Trade Center)
Hosts well renowned international events
Good alternative to DIFC and ADGM
Best For
Family offices, wealth managers and holding structures
Estate management
Fortune 500 companies
Key Considerations
If your business requires 3 visas or more, physical dedicated office space is mandatory
ECDA - Expo City
New hub for Dubai’s future. Strategically located between Jebal Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
Key Advantages
Wide range of business activities
Wide range of office spaces (commercial, warehouses and retail)
Offers freelance permits
Best For
International schools and universities
Fortune 500 companies
Freelancers
Tech companies
Abu Dhabi Free Zones
ADGM – Abu Dhabi Global Market
ADGM is Abu Dhabi's flagship financial free zone on Al Maryah Island under English Common Law with FSRA oversight for asset management, fintech, and crypto services. It supports regulated and non-regulated firms including SPVs popular for asset holding and wealth structuring.
Key Advantages
English Common Law jurisdiction
Globally recognized FSRA regulatory system
Strong environment for financial services & fintech
ADGM SPVs widely used for structuring & investment
Premium business community on Al Maryah Island
High acceptance by banks & institutional partners
Strong fintech, crypto & digital asset framework
Wide access to international investors
Best For
Investment management firms
Family offices & wealth structuring
Fintech & virtual asset service providers
Legal, consulting & advisory companies
Practical Points
Premium setup & ongoing costs
Office lease required for most licenses
Regulated activities require FSRA approval
SPVs allow remote/directors abroad in many cases
Creative Media Authority
(Previously TwoFour54)
TwoFour54 is Abu Dhabi's media and creative hub supporting film, TV, publishing, gaming, and digital content with studios and post-production facilities. It offers filming incentives and media partnerships.
Key Advantages
Dedicated media & creative industries ecosystem
Production studios, sound stages & editing suites
Strong regulatory & logistical support for filming
Access to regional talent & media partners
International media brands present in the community
Incentives for large media productions
Specialized permits for filming & broadcasting
Modern creative infrastructure
Best For
Film, TV & digital content creators
Animation & gaming studios
Production houses & post-production teams
Media agencies & creative service providers
Key Considerations
Creative portfolio may be required
Activity approvals required for media licensing
Not suitable for unrelated commercial sectors
ADAFZ – Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone
Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone is a division of Abu Dhabi Airport, focused on 7 industries.
Key Advantages
Located around 3 core airports: Zayed International Airport, Al Ain International Airport, Al Bateen Executive Airport
Wide range of Property solutions (grade A offices, flexi desks, warehouses, logistics and distribution centers, built-to-suit facilities, and serviced plots of land.)
No Customs duties
In-house IT and Telecom services
Best For
E-commerce & Logistics
Aerospace & Defense
Pharma & BioTech
Food & AgriTech
Industrial & Consumer
Emerging Technology
Mixed-use Development
KEZAD – Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (formerly KIZAD)
KEZAD is a massive trade, logistics, and industrial zone between Abu Dhabi and Dubai with direct Khalifa Port access for warehouses, factories, and distribution. It supports metals, food, automotive, chemicals, and large-scale operations.
Key Advantages
Direct access to Khalifa Port
Massive industrial & logistics capacity
Warehouses, land plots, & build-to-suit facilities
Long-term lease options at competitive rates
Strong integration with Abu Dhabi's industrial strategy
Power, utilities & industrial infrastructure on-site
Excellent road connectivity to UAE & GCC
Best For
Manufacturing & processing plants
Automotive & heavy equipment distribution
Logistics & regional warehousing
Food, packaging & commodity industries
Key Considerations
Facility leasing required for most activities
Industrial approvals may apply
Suitable for medium to large-scale operations
Not ideal for small consulting firms
Masdar City Free Zone
Masdar City promotes clean technology, renewable energy, smart cities, and sustainability with research labs and innovation hubs. It attracts green tech startups and aligns with UAE's net-zero climate goals.
Key Advantages
Sustainability & clean-tech focused ecosystem
Modern, environmentally friendly infrastructure
Strong support for R&D & innovation projects
Home to green tech startups & global energy firms
Access to Masdar Institute & research partnerships
Incentives for environmentally aligned businesses
High visibility for ESG-driven companies
License can be used to work/sell to mainland Abu Dhabi
Best For
Renewable energy companies
Environmental & sustainability consultancies
Smart city & clean technology developers
R&D organizations and climate tech innovators
Ras Al Khaimah Free Zones
RAKEZ – Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone
RAKEZ is an authority established by the government of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to oversee, regulate and consolidate the services, facilities and zones of RAK Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ) and RAK Investment Authority (RAKIA), as well as serve their respective clients.
Key Advantages
Up to 50 shareholders
Up to 10 business activities (mix and match)
Eligibility for bank account opening
Co-working centre membership
Access to business networking events
Best For
Commercial Trader and Education sector
Manufacturing Facility Expansion
Media and E-Gaming Companies
SME or a large industrial enterprise
Key Considerations
Real Estate related activities are very limited and subject to approval
RAK ICC - Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre
RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) is a premier corporate registry in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. It offers solutions for wealth structuring, asset preservation, and succession planning through the formation of International Business Companies, Foundations, and Holding Companies.
Key Advantages
Asset protection, and succession planning
English Common Law based regulations with memorandums of understanding with both DIFC and ADGM courts
Positioned as a specialized offshore jurisdiction
Best For
Wealth structuring, asset preservation, and succession planning
Good mid-range cost alternative to DIFC and ADGM
International Business Companies, Foundations, SPV and Holding Companies
Key Considerations
Issuance of family office licenses is not allowed.
Does not cover regulated activities such as banking or investment funds
RAK DAO - Ras Al Khaimah Digital Assets Oasis
RAK Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO) is the world’s first and only common law free zone dedicated to global (non-regulated) digital and virtual assets companies servicing next-gen innovators, located in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE.
Key Advantages
World's first free zone specifically for non-regulated digital and virtual asset companies
Exclusively for digital assets, crypto, blockchain, NFTs, AI, gaming, and Web3 ventures
Competitive taxes, and streamlined licensing, offering a supportive ecosystem
Cost-effectiveness in the crypto sector
Best For
startups and global innovators
Web3, blockchain, AI, and metaverse sectors
Crypto business incorporation
Key Considerations
Strict compliance & reporting required
Penalties, and legal issues may arise by authorities
Sharjah Free Zones
SAIF - Sharjah Airport International Free Zone
SAIF Zone next to Sharjah Airport supports import/export, distributors, warehouses, and light manufacturing with industrial units and fast customs. It offers cost-effective logistics alternative to Dubai.
Key Advantages
Strategically located to Sharjah International Airport and close to the seaports and airports of Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Strong air cargo logistics support
Warehouses, industrial units & land plots varying from 2,500 sqm and above
Fast customs clearance processes
Cost-effective operational facilities
Home to thousands of trading companies
Strong regional and international connectivity
A full-fledged and highly specialized jewelry manufacturing unit
On-site budget worker accommodation
Best For
Custom-built warehouses, factories, and light manufacturing units.
Medical clinics, pharmacies, and F&B outlets.
Telecom, IT, and computer services.
Import/export, distribution, and fulfilment operations.
Trading of spare parts, electronics, and consumer goods.
Key Considerations
No Direct Finance
Facility leasing required for operational activities
Industrial approvals may apply
Not suitable for fully virtual businesses
SPC – Sharjah Publishing City
SPC is the world's first publishing-focused free zone supporting printers, distributors, content creators, and e-commerce with offices and warehouses. It accommodates media, education, and trading firms with flexible licensing.
Key Advantages
First free zone globally for publishing, media, and content creation
Competitive licensing packages
Provides offices, warehouses, and publishing facilities
Streamlined on-site immigration and visa support
Dual license option with wide activity scope
Best For
Ideal for Amazon sellers, online bookstores & E-commerce traders
Publishers & printing houses
Content creation, editing & translation services
Media, consulting & creative firms
Key Considerations
Warehouse space available for storage & distribution
No requirement for industry-specific degrees
Client support responsiveness can vary by service provider
SRTIP - Sharjah Research, Technology & Innovation Park
SRTIP next to University of Sharjah supports R&D, renewable energy, digital transformation, and advanced manufacturing with labs and prototyping centers. It fosters academic-industry innovation partnerships.
Key Advantages
Research & innovation-focused free zone
Access to labs, prototyping centers & 3D printing hubs
Strong ties with universities & academic partners
Supports advanced manufacturing & tech development
Excellent environment for R&D companies
Government-backed innovation ecosystem
Incentives for high-tech projects
Suitable for long-term innovation growth
Research, technology & innovation-focused free zone
Best For
R&D companies and technology development firms
AI, robotics, and advanced manufacturing startups
Renewable energy, water technology, and environmental ventures
Scientific research and life sciences businesses
Entrepreneurs accessing innovation networks and research ecosystems
Key Considerations
License focuses on innovation; mainstream business activities may need alternative jurisdictions
Certain activities require technical documentation
Office or lab space is required depending on the license
Not intended for general trading businesses
R&D and innovation focus may require detailed business proposals
SHAMS – Sharjah Media City
SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) is unique for being a digital-first, paperless free zone that allows entrepreneurs to combine multiple business activities under a single, cost-effective license with no physical office requirement.
Key Advantages
Very competitive licensing & visa costs
Remote-friendly company setup procedures
Broad activity list with flexible combinations
Ideal for startups, content creators & digital firms
Fast processing and minimal documentation
Strong community for freelancers & creative workers
Option for multi-activity licenses
Part of Sharjah's creative economy vision
Best For
Media, content, creative, and digital service companies
Freelancers, independent professionals, and consultants
Marketing, design, and professional service firms
Tech, e‑commerce, and digital startups
Companies needing multi‑activity licensing under one trade license
Key Considerations
Not suitable for industrial or heavy trading activities
SHCC - Sharjah Healthcare City
SHCC provides clinic spaces, medical suites, and licensing for healthcare professionals, diagnostics, and wellness services. It offers cost-effective medical expansion vs. Dubai zones.
Key Advantages
Dedicated free zone for healthcare and medical services with clinic-ready facilities
Regulated licensing for healthcare professionals with strong oversight
Diagnostic, lab, and medical support available on-site
Competitive setup costs and patient-friendly environment
Best For
Clinics and medical specialist practices
Dental and dermatology centers
Physiotherapy and rehabilitation facilities
Wellness and medical support services
Ideal for medical tourism and healthcare business expansion
Key Considerations
Medical licensing & credentialing required
Facility leasing is mandatory for clinical operations
Not suitable for non-medical businesses
Ajman Free Zones
AFZ - Ajman Free Zone
Ajman Free Zone (AFZ) is unique for being one of the UAE's most cost-effective and flexible free zones.
Key Advantages
Low-cost setup with flexible licensing options
Warehouses, offices, and industrial units available
Proximity to Ajman Port for efficient trading operations
Multiple business activities allowed under a single license
Suitable for local and international import/export businesses
Simple documentation process with quick approvals
Best For
Startups, SMEs, and entrepreneurs seeking cost-effective entry into the UAE
Import/export, trading, and distribution companies
E-commerce operators and logistics-focused businesses
Service providers, consultants, and freelancers
Light manufacturing, assembly, warehousing, and industrial operations
Key Considerations
Facility leasing required for warehousing and industrial activities
Flexi-desk options available for service-based businesses
Office, warehouse, or land requirements depend on the chosen license and activity
Not suitable for large-scale or heavy manufacturing projects
ANC - Ajman NuVentures Capital
A modern, startup-focused free zone offering fast, low-commitment entry to the UAE. Simplified setup for service, digital, and trading businesses with minimal overhead and streamlined regulations.
Key Advantages
Strategic proximity to Ajman Port for efficient trading
Affordable setup with simplified licensing
Fast company incorporation with minimal documentation
Backed by Ajman Free Zone Authority
Best For
Ideal for digital, service, and small trading businesses
Startups and early-stage entrepreneurs
SMEs seeking low-cost UAE presence
Service providers, consultants, and freelancers
First-time founders entering the UAE market
Key Considerations
Physical facilities depend on selected activity and license type
Primarily designed for small to mid-scale operations
Not intended for heavy industrial or large manufacturing activities
UAQ Free Zones
UAQ Free Trade Zone (Umm Al Quwain FTZ)
UAQ Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ) is unique for being the UAE's premier "SME and Micro-Business" hub, offering specialized low-cost "Micro Business" and "Freelance" licenses that do not require an annual audit, a physical office, or a visa deposit.
Key Advantages
Among the most cost-friendly UAE free zones with simple setup
Flexible multi-activity licenses for general trading and e-commerce
Warehouses and offices available at low cost
Strategic location with strong logistics access via roads, seaports, and airports
Fast approvals, renewals, and visa/non-visa packages available
Best For
Trading, import/export, and e‑commerce companies
Small warehouses, light industrial, and manufacturing activities
Service providers, consultants, and freelancers
Startups, SMEs, and micro-businesses seeking affordable UAE entry
Entrepreneurs and international investors targeting regional markets
Key Considerations
Costs are low, but additional logistics planning may be needed for access to larger markets
Not suitable for heavy industrial operations
Best suited for SMEs prioritizing affordability
Fujairah Free Zones
FFZ - Fujairah Free Zone
Fujairah Free Zone (FFZ) offers a unique "triple advantage" of Accessibility, Connectivity & Economy (ACE), leveraging its exclusive access to the Indian Ocean via the Port of Fujairah and the Gulf of Oman.
This strategic position supports global trade, marine logistics, oil & gas, bulk trading, and exports beyond the Strait of Hormuz, complemented by warehouses and expedited customs services.
Key Advantages
Strategic logistics hub due to direct access to Fujairah Port & Gulf of Oman
Outside Strait of Hormuz — fewer shipping risks
Cost-effective warehouses & land plots
Quick customs clearance for export operations
Strong infrastructure for oil & gas support companies
Best For
Port-dependent businesses leveraging marine logistics companies
Manufacturing and light industrial firms
Import/export, distribution, and warehousing operations
Startups and cost-sensitive ventures
International trading and commodity exporters
Service providers, consultants, and SMEs
Fuel, energy, and shipping-related businesses
Key Considerations
Facility leasing required for trading, logistics, and warehousing operations
Industrial approvals needed for manufacturing activities
Not suitable for virtual-only service companies
Costs vary depending on facility type and usage