The UAE offers investors more than 40 multidisciplinary free zones, in which expatriates and foreign investors can have full ownership of companies. These zones are characterized by their highly efficient infrastructure, and distinct services that facilitate smooth workflows, saving businesses considerable time and effort. 

There are many free zones, and procedures, prices and requirements change all the time. The free zones compete with each other for business, which gives them an incentive to innovate, and stay attractive to investors.

Here are some top and prominent Freezone with specific advantages

International Free Zone Authority

IFZA is soon set to become an important investment hub within the developing economy of the United Arab Emirates Offering a highly customized approach combined with effective international service standards and cost-effective solutions.

Benefits of setting up a business in IFZA

• 1 Residence Visa Free for Life for Packages with Visa Allocation
• 100% tax exemption (excluding 5% VAT)
• Tax-free import/export, in and out of the Free Zone.
• A safe and liberal business-friendly legal framework.
• 100% foreign ownership of commercial enterprises.
• 100% repatriation of capital and profit.
• No paid-up share capital requirement.
• Multinational, multilingual team.
• Multiple activities can be combined in one license.

Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)

Sharjah Media City (Shams) was launched in February 2017 to act as a catalyst for creative and media businesses to grow and thrive.

Benefits of setting up a business with SHAMS

Shams offers several cost-effective options to entrepreneurs who are looking to set up their new media businesses. Unlike many other free zones in the UAE.

• 100% tax-free jurisdiction
• 100% repatriation of capital and profits
• 100% foreign ownership allowed
• No corporate or personal tax
• No import and export duties

Ras Al Khaimah Freezone (RAKEZ)

Situated in the heart of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is a powerhouse business and industrial hub that offers customizable solutions to free zone and non-free zone businesses in a multinational community flourishing in over 50 sectors.

Benefits of setting up a business in IFZA

• RAK free zone company setup offers 100% ownership
• Entity formation as free zone and non-free zone
• Quick and efficient business setup processes
• Ability to build on-site staff and accomodation
• Wide-range of businesses, industrial facilities, and value-added services
• One-stop solution for all services
• Customer portal with self-service
• Strong connectivity to major logistical hubs and multilane super highways