Introduction About Dubai Free Zone
Dubai is the main business center in the UAE and attracts many entrepreneurs and investors. It has several free zones, each with its own benefits and services for different types of businesses. Choosing the right free zone is important. Here are the top ten free zones in Dubai. Do you want to set up a business in Dubai Mainland?
Why Set Up in a Dubai Free Zone?
- 100% Foreign Ownership: You have full control without needing a local partner.
- Tax Benefits: No personal or corporate income taxes.
- Fast Company Setup: Simple process with minimal paperwork.
- Modern Facilities: Offices and warehouses ready to use.
- Good Connectivity: Easy access to transport and logistics networks.
Top Ten Free Zones for Business Setup in Dubai
Dubai has many free zones designed for different industries, such as tech, finance, logistics, and design. These zones provide benefits to help businesses grow. Here are the top ten free zones in Dubai to consider for starting your business.
1. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
- Location: Near Jebel Ali Port with strong global connections.
- Specialization: Logistics, e-commerce, manufacturing.
- Key Benefits: Largest seaport, multiple industries, no import or export duties.
- Explore more: Jebel Ali Free Zone License Cost
| Package | Cost (AED) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Trading License | 25,000 | Office space, 1 visa, licence |
| Industrial License | 35,000 | Warehouse, license, 2 visas |
2. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre): One of the world’s largest free zones and a center for commodity trading.
- Specialization: Commodity trade and financial services.
- Key Benefits: Flexible office options and a strategic location in JLT.
- Explore more: DMCC Free Zone License Cost
| Package | Cost (AED) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Flexi Desk | 11,500 | Desk space, license, 1 visa |
| Office Setup | 22,000 | Private office, license, 2 visas |
3. Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)
- Specialization: Trading, aviation, electronics.
- Key Benefits: Prime location and quick company setup.
- Explore more: DAFZA Free Zone License Cost
| Package | Cost (AED) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Trade License | 34,000 | Office, license, visa quota |
4. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre): A financial hub with its own legal system, ideal for banks and financial institutions.
- Specialization: Financial services and fintech.
- Key Benefits: Independent legal framework and regulatory support.
| Package | Approx. Cost (AED) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Regulated Entity | 40,000 – 55,000 | Registration, license, office, 1 visa |
| Regulated Financial Firm | 80,000 – 150,000 | DFSA approvals, license, legal setup |
5. Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)
DWTC Free Zone (Dubai World Trade Centre): A prime location for events, exhibitions, and trade shows.
- Specialization: Events, consulting, and trading.
- Key Benefits: Central location and partnerships for events.
| Package | Approx. Cost (AED) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Flexi Desk | 25,000 – 28,000 | License, desk, 1 visa |
| Office Setup | 35,000 – 45,000 | License, office space, 2 visas |
6. Dubai Internet City (DIC)
DIC (Dubai Internet City): A free zone for IT companies, software developers, and tech startups.
- Specialization: IT and software development.
- Key Benefits: Access to skilled tech talent and strong infrastructure.
| Package | Approx. Cost (AED) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Startup Office | 28,000 – 35,000 | License, shared office, 1 visa |
| Tech SME | 40,000 – 60,000 | Dedicated space, license, 2 visas |
7. Dubai Design District (D3)
D3 (Dubai Design District): A free zone for creatives in fashion, art, and design.
- Specialization: Fashion, design, and media.
- Key Benefits: Modern workspaces and opportunities for international exposure.
| Package | Approx. Cost (AED) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Freelancer/Designer | 7,500 – 9,500 | Freelance permit, coworking |
| Creative Company | 35,000 – 55,000 | License, shared or private office |
8. Dubai Media City (DMC)
DMC (Dubai Media City): Designed for media, advertising, and broadcasting companies.
- Specialization: Broadcasting, publishing, and media.
- Key Benefits: High-tech infrastructure and an international media hub.
| Package | Approx. Cost (AED) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Media Freelancer | 9,500 – 12,000 | Freelancer permit, shared workspace |
| Media Company | 40,000 – 60,000 | Trade license, office, 1–2 visas |
9. Dubai South Free Zone
Dubai South: Located near Al Maktoum Airport, growing as a hub for logistics and e-commerce.
- Specialization: Logistics, aviation, and e-commerce.
- Key Benefits: Affordable setup and large-scale infrastructure.
| Package | Approx. Cost (AED) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Startup Flexi Desk | 15,000 – 22,000 | License, desk, 1 visa |
| Warehouse + License | 45,000+ | Warehouse, license, multiple visas |
10. Sharjah Publishing City (SPC Free Zone)
- Specialization: Publishing, media, and creative arts.
- Key Benefits: Offers dual licenses and supports over 1,500 business activities.
- Explore more: SPC Free Zone License Cost
| Package | 1st-Year Cost (AED) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Zero-Visa Publishing | 5,750 | License only |
| 1‑Visa Coworking | 9,000 | License + visa + desk |
| 1‑Visa Office | 9,250 | License + visa + office (plus space fees) |
Which Free Zone Suits You?
Choosing the right free zone depends on your industry, budget, and business plan. SPC is cost-effective and quick to set up, DMCC is good for scaling, while JAFZA and DAFZA are strong in logistics and trade. Tech, finance, media, and creative businesses benefit from zones built for their needs.
Contact Mehar Business Solution LLC for help with free zone selection, dual licensing, PRO services, banking, and more.
Quick Comparison Table
| Free Zone | First-Year Cost (AED) | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| SPC | 5,750–9,250 | Fastest processing, lowest cost |
| DMCC | 34,000–82,400 | Largest network, premium services |
| JAFZA | 25,000–35,000 | Best for logistics |
| DAFZA | ~34,000+ | Airport proximity advantage |
Dubai has built a business friendly environment, and many companies have succeeded in its free zones. As you start your business, Dubai offers great opportunities for growth. You can also hire a trusted provider of PRO services in Dubai.
Frequently Asked Questions About SPC Free Zone in UAE
The right free zone depends on your business type. DMCC is good for trading, DIFC for finance, DIC for tech, and DAFZA for logistics. Think about your industry, budget, and office needs before choosing.
Typical documents needed are a copy of your passport, a business plan, the application form, and in some cases, educational or professional certificates.
Registering a company in a Dubai free zone usually takes 3 to 10 working days, depending on the zone and your type of business.
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