UAE Free Zones - The Most Promising Business Destination in the Middle East

Stratrich provides end-to-end solutions for UAE free zone business setup, helping entrepreneurs and companies establish a strong presence in any of UAE’s most advantageous free zones across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah.

These free zones are lucrative jurisdictions as they offer various incentives such as full foreign ownership, tax exemptions, customs privileges and robust infrastructure. The smooth setup process, with minimal bureaucracy and fast-tracked administrative services, is an efficient and cost-effective solution for businesses.

The UAE boasts more than 50 multi-disciplinary free zones. Choosing the ideal free zone is critical for maximizing your business’ growth potential. Whether you're a startup, an established business, or an international company looking to expand into the UAE market, we help you navigate the complex requirements to make informed decisions.

Partner with Experts for Free Zone Company Setup in UAE

Starting a business in the UAE’s free zones can be an exciting opportunity, but navigating the complexities of company formation can be challenging. Our comprehensive company setup services assist you in navigating the complexities of entering the UAE market. Our experts assist you in selecting the best free zone based on your industry, securing the necessary trade licenses, managing legal documentation, and facilitating visa applications for you and your employees.

We streamline the UAE Free Zone company setup process, ensuring handholding from start to finish.

  • UAE Free Zone Company Formation in 1-2 Business days
  • Acquiring a Trade License
  • Facilitating Bank Account Setup
  • Securing UAE Investor Visa
  • Fulfilling all Company Requirements with Minimal Paperwork

Choose the Right Free Zone for the Right Business

One of the most attractive aspects of the UAE is the variety of free zones available to start your business. Each free zone comes with its unique set of advantages, regulations and facilities. Selecting the ideal free zone that suits your business will lay the foundation of your business journey. Our specialists help you take a well-researched and strategic approach to understanding the intricacies of business and finding its perfect free zone match.

UAE Free Zone Business Licenses

Companies operating in the UAE Free Zones are required to obtain licenses based on their business activities

General Trading License

Allows investors to engage in the trading of various products.

Trading/Commercial License

Grants a time-limited authorisation to conduct industrial, commercial, or consulting activities.

Industrial License

Permits the importation of raw materials, manfacturing of goods, and exportation of finished products across international borders.

Service License

Enables operation for law, accounting, and business consultancy firms.

Manufacturing License

Allows applicants to establish and operate manufacturing facilities for the production of goods.

Advantages of Setting up a Business in
a UAE Free Zone

Full Profit Repatriation

We believe in complete transparency throughout the development process. You are involved at every stage, ensuring the final product meets your exact needs.

Retain Ownership

The most significant advantage is that foreign investors can retain 100% ownership of their businesses without the need for a local partner or sponsor.

Financial Incentives

0% income tax subject to certain conditions, no customs duties levied on imports and exports, and no applicability of VAT on transactions within the Free Zone.

Strategic Location and Global Connectivity

Free zones are strategically located close to seaports, airports, and national borders. This facilitates faster delivery times, reduces shipping costs, and enhances supply chain efficiency.

Range of Business Activities

UAE free zones cater to diverse commercial activities, allowing entrepreneurs to explore various sectors (such as trading, manufacturing, services, technology, media, healthcare, consulting).

Ease of Setup

The entire company formation procedure – from acquiring a license to opening a bank account – is quick and straightforward. Investors have easy access to convenient administrative services.

Business Activities Allowed in
UAE Free Zones


Trading and E-Commerce

Consulting Services

Manufacturing and Production

Component Assembly

Technology and Software Development

Media and Creative Services

Education and Training Services

Health and Wellness

Logistics and Transportation

Real Estate and Property Management

How Stratrich Can Enhance Your UAE Free Zone Company Setup

  • Expert Knowledge of UAE Regulations - Stratrich Consulting has deep expertise in UAE’s free zone company laws and regulations, ensuring quicker license approvals and compliant business from day one.
  • Strong Network of Free Zones - We have partnered with 15+ free zones across UAE to offer our clients a wide range of investment jurisdictions.
  • Tailored Solutions - We offer customised business setup packages to suit your business goals and industry needs.
  • End-to-End Support - Our team provides 360° support - from incorporation to post-setup assistance – to ensure smooth offshore operations.
  • Local Presence - Our strong connections with local UAE authorities offer valuable insights and ensure faster approvals, enabling you to navigate Dubai’s business landscape with ease.
  • Proven Track Record - Our successful track record in company formation makes us a trusted partner for businesses looking to expand into UAE’s lucrative market.

Easy Steps for Free Zone Business Set Up in UAE
with Stratrich

We ensure compliant and streamlined operations of your new business in the UAE free zone by undertaking the following key steps:

Book a Free Consultation
1
Initial Consultation

Our process initiates with a detailed consultation to understand your business goals and assess the ideal free zone jurisdiction based on your requirements.

2
Jurisdiction Selection

Our experts help you select the most suitable jurisdiction, considering factors such as business activities, availability of resources (Land/building/Co-working, etc.), legal requirements, and business environment.

3
Determination of Type of Entity

We decide the type of business entity to establish amongst the following:

Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC) or Free Zone Company (FZCO): These companies can have multiple shareholders (up to a maximum of 50). The shareholders can be individuals, companies, or a combination of both.

Branch of a Company: This is an extension of an existing local or foreign company. It operates under the same name and conducts the same activities as the parent company.
4
Documentation Preparation

We assist in gathering and preparing the required documents, including the application form, identity proof, business plans, and compliance paperwork, to ensure a smooth registration and visa process.

5
Company Registration

Our team handles the entire registration process with local authorities, ensuring all legal and regulatory requirements are met efficiently.

6
Trade License Application

We help you apply for trade licenses based on your business activities. Our process ensures minimal paperwork and least approval time.

7
Bank Account Setup

We help you open a bank account to facilitate international transactions, ensuring your company’s financial operations are secure and compliant.

8
Compliance and Reporting

Post-formation, we provide ongoing support to ensure your company remains compliant with local regulations, including annual filings and tax reporting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, and No. A free zone company is generally restricted from doing business directly in the mainland UAE without involving a local distributor or agent. You can conduct business internationally or within the free zone itself. However, there are free zones that allow certain operations such as retail and renting co-working spaces in the mainland.

The process of registering your entity can be completed within two business days. However, considering the auxiliary processes of obtaining the Emirates ID and a local Bank Account, it may take up to 1-3 weeks, depending on the specific free zone, type of business activity, and the completion of required documentation.

The minimum capital requirement varies by free zone. Some free zones have no capital requirement, while others may have specific capital mandates based on the business activity.

Choosing the right free zone depends on factors such as your business activity, target market, and operational needs. Stratrich can help you evaluate your options and select the most ideal free zone for your business goals.

Some of the most popular UAE free zones are IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) for its focus on innovation & technology, Meydan Free Zone (MFZ) as it caters to a wide range of industries, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone for its cost-competitive manufacturing and great logistics connectivity, Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) for logistics and trade, Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) for commodities trading, and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) for finance.

Ajman Free Zone, Sharjah Media City (SHAMS), Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), Meydan Free Zone, Umm Al Quwain (UAQ), and IFZA Free Zone have some of the lowest license fees for setting up a free zone company in UAE.

Yes, UAE free zones allow you to register and own businesses without the need for a physical office space. All free zones offer virtual office or flexi-desk options. However, this depends on your business license as some business activities require a physical office due to regulatory requirements.

The following documents are required for free zone company formation (for each shareholder and manager):

  • Passport Copy
  • UAE Entry Stamp / Visa Copy
  • Residence visa copy and Emirates ID (for UAE residents)
  • Proof of Address
  • Passport-Sized Photo

In case the company is a subsidiary of a foreign company, additional documents are required, including:

  • Company certificate of Incorporation of the parent company (Notarized)
  • Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association of the parent company (Notarized)
  • Recent Board Resolution approving the incorporation of the subsidiary in UAE (Notarized and attested by the UAE embassy in the home country)

In addition to this, you may also be required to submit company related documents. At Stratrich, we assist you in compiling all documents efficiently to avoid any delays in the company setup process.

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