The Complete & Documented Guide to All UAE Free Zones 2025: A Journey Through 45+ Specialized Economic Zones

Introduction

The United Arab Emirates stands as one of the world’s most attractive business destinations, thanks to its extensive network of free zones comprising over 45 specialized areas distributed across all seven emirates. Each free zone represents a unique ecosystem designed to serve specific sectors and industries, providing investors and entrepreneurs with diverse options tailored to their business needs and objectives.

Official statistics indicate that UAE free zones host more than 100,000 companies from 163 countries worldwide, contributing over 30% to the nation’s GDP. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore each free zone in detail, documenting information with reliable sources to ensure credibility and accuracy.

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Part One: Dubai Free Zones

Dubai houses more than 30 specialized free zones, the largest and most developed in the country.

1. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)

Overview: DMCC is recognized as the world’s largest free zone for commodities trading, located in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers area. It has won the title of “World’s Best Free Zone” for eight consecutive years from fDi Magazine.

Facts & Statistics:

• Over 20,000 registered companies
• Attracts companies from more than 170 countries
• Welcomed over 1,100 new companies in H1 2025
• British companies increased by 23% and Turkish companies by 22% annually

Main Specializations:

• Gold and diamond trading (hosts the region’s largest gold market)
• Tea and coffee trading
• Energy and commodities
• FinTech and cryptocurrencies (offers Crypto licenses)
• Consulting and professional services

Unique Features:

• World-class infrastructure with premium offices
• DMCC AI Centre in partnership with JetBrains
• Regular industry events and networking platforms
• Diverse office options from Flexi-desk to private offices

Estimated Costs:

• License fees start from AED 12,500
• Visas and office spaces vary by package

Source: Official DMCC website, Arabian Business Reports 2025

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2. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)

Overview: Established in 1985, it’s the oldest and largest free zone in the UAE, located next to Jebel Ali Port, the world’s seventh-largest port.

Facts & Statistics:

• Hosts over 8,000 companies
• About 100 Fortune 500 companies
• Contributes 23% of Dubai’s GDP
• Attracts 32% of foreign direct investment

Main Specializations:

• Manufacturing and heavy industries
• Logistics and shipping
• Automotive trade
• Petrochemical industries
• International trade

Unique Features:

• Strategic location next to the region’s largest ports
• Proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport
• Massive storage facilities and ready warehouses
• Dedicated industrial zones

Source: Official JAFZA website, Wikipedia, Safe Ledger Reports

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3. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

Overview: Established in 2004 as an international financial center operating under English Common Law, located on Al Maryah Island.

Facts & Statistics:

• Hosts over 6,920 active companies including the world’s largest financial institutions
• Recorded a 245% increase in assets under management in 2024

Main Specializations:

• Financial services and investment banking
• Asset and wealth management
• Insurance and reinsurance
• Financial technology (FinTech Hive)

Unique Features:

• Independent legal system based on English Common Law
• Specialized DIFC Courts
• Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) regulation
• LEAP accelerator for startups
• Strong investment network
• 50-year 0% corporate tax guarantee

Requirements:

• DFSA approval for regulated financial activities
• Strict governance standards
• Higher setup costs than other zones

Source: Official DIFC website, Profound UAE Reports

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4. Dubai Internet City (DIC)

Overview: The Middle East’s largest tech cluster, established to attract global technology companies.

Main Specializations:

• Information technology and software
• Artificial intelligence and SaaS
• Gaming and cybersecurity
• Digital media

Resident Companies: Hosts technology giants like Microsoft, Oracle, HP, and LinkedIn.

Features:

• Modern and advanced infrastructure
• in5 Tech accelerator for startups
• Frequent events and networking
• Innovative ecosystem

Source: Official DIC website, Top Spots Dubai

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5. International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) – Dubai Silicon Oasis

Overview: Located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, one of the most cost-competitive free zones.

Facts & Statistics:

• Over 2,500 available business activities
• Packages starting from AED 5,750

Main Specializations:

• E-commerce
• Technology and digital services
• Consulting
• General trading

Features:

• Low costs compared to other zones
• High flexibility in activities (up to 3 activities per license)
• Fast procedures
• Diverse office options including virtual offices

Source: Official IFZA website, Vertix Auditing

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6. Dubai South (Dubai World Central)

Overview: A strategic zone located next to Al Maktoum International Airport, part of Dubai 2030 vision.

Main Specializations:

• Aviation and aerospace
• Logistics
• E-commerce
• Advanced manufacturing

Features:

• Proximity to the world’s largest airport (under development)
• Vast spaces for expansion
• Modern infrastructure
• Integrated logistics zone

Source: Official Dubai South website

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7. Dubai Maritime City (DMC)

Specializations: Maritime industries, shipbuilding and repair, maritime services, marine operations.

Features: Dry dock facilities, shipbuilding yards, strategic coastal location.

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8. Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC)

Overview: Specialized center for health and medical industries.

Specializations:

• Hospitals and clinics
• Medical laboratories
• Medical research and development centers
• Health innovation

Requirements:

• Ministry of Health approval for medical licenses
• Strict medical standards

Source: Official DHCC website

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9. Dubai Design District (d3)

Specializations: Fashion, design, art, creative industries.

Features: Cultural and creative environment, art events, galleries and museums.

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10. Dubai Studio City

Specializations: Film and television production, music, media production.

Facilities: Sound studios, post-production facilities, professional equipment.

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11. Dubai Science Park (DSP)

Specializations: Scientific research, energy, environment, pharmaceutical industries, biotechnology.

Facilities: Research laboratories, R&D facilities, industrial partnerships.

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12. Dubai Production City (DPC)

Specializations: Media production, publishing, printing.

Facilities: Sound studios, production suites, specialized publishing facilities.

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13. Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP)

Specializations: Human resource management, training institutes, educational support, knowledge transfer.

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14. Dubai Outsource City (DOC)

Specializations: Outsourcing, BPO, IT support, call centers.

Features: Scalable infrastructure, access to skilled talent.

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15. Dubai Cars and Automotive Zone (DUCAMZ)

Specializations: Automotive trade, import and export, specialized services, storage spaces.

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16. Dubai Industrial City

Specializations: Manufacturing, logistics, light industries.

Facilities: Large industrial plots.

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17. Dubai South Logistics District

Specializations: Freight, express mail, logistics companies, warehouse spaces near airport.

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18. Dubai Textile City

Specializations: Textile and garment trade.

Facilities: Storage and logistics infrastructure.

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19. Dubai Auto Zone

Specializations: Commercial center for car dealers and parts importers, simplified customs and logistics.

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20. Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)

Overview: Located next to Dubai International Airport, ideal for companies requiring fast transport.

Specializations: Aviation, electronics, freight, express transport.

Features: Strategic location, easy access to global markets.

Source: Official DAFZA website

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21. Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone (DWTC)

Specializations: Event-based and exhibition companies.

Features: Excellent central location, strong business support.

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22. Meydan Free Zone (MFZ)

Overview: Located in the Meydan area, ideal for digital and medium-sized companies.

Specializations: E-commerce, consulting, digital business.

Features:

• Fast online setup operations
• Modern office options
• Flexible packages

Source: Vertix Auditing, Top Spots Dubai

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23. Dubai Media City

Specializations: Media, broadcasting, publishing, journalism.

Resident Companies: Major media agencies, TV stations, publishing houses.

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24. Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)

Specializations: Technology, electronics, research and development.

Features: Integrated tech city with residential, retail and office spaces.

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25-30. Other Dubai Free Zones

Also includes:

• Dubai Gold & Diamond Park
• Dubai Biotechnology & Research Park
• International Humanitarian City (IHC)
• Dubai CommerCity
• Dubai Knowledge Village

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Part Two: Abu Dhabi Free Zones

1. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)

Overview: Established in 2015 as an international financial center on Al Maryah Island, operating under English Common Law.

Facts & Statistics:

• Recorded 245% increase in assets under management in 2024
• Hosts over 6,920 companies from major global financial institutions

Main Specializations:

• Financial services and banking
• Asset and wealth management
• Insurance
• Financial technology

Unique Features:

• Independent legal system (English Common Law)
• ADGM Courts
• Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA)
• RegLab for FinTech startups
• First comprehensive regulatory framework for digital assets in the region

Requirements:

• No minimum capital requirement
• At least one shareholder and one director
• Company secretary optional for private companies

Source: Official ADGM website, ADIO Reports

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2. Khalifa Economic Zone Abu Dhabi (KEZAD)

Overview: The UAE’s largest integrated trade, logistics and industrial hub, managed by AD Ports Group.

Facts & Statistics:

• Extends over 550 square kilometers
• 100 square kilometers dedicated to free zone operations
• Largest integrated hub in the UAE

Main Specializations:

• Automotive
• Food processing
• Pharmaceutical industries
• Metals and polymers
• Green steel

Unique Features:

• Direct connection to Khalifa Port
• Advanced sectoral complexes
• Cold storage
• Private hot metal road for molten materials
• Energy incentive programs
• Land rental discount programs for priority sectors

Facilities:

• Co-working spaces
• One-stop-shop services
• Existing and upcoming residential communities
• Retail centers
• Ready warehouses from 300 to 50,000 square meters

Requirements:

• Minimum capital: AED 150,000 (registrar may require more)
• At least one shareholder
• At least two directors
• General manager and company secretary

Source: Official KEZAD website, AD Ports Group Reports

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3. Masdar City Free Zone

Overview: A leading sustainable business zone in Abu Dhabi, focusing on clean energy and sustainable technology.

Location: Just 5 minutes from Zayed International Airport.

Main Specializations:

• Smart mobility
• Renewable energy
• Artificial intelligence
• Life sciences
• Agricultural technology
• Space technology

Unique Features:

• LEED Platinum certified zero-energy buildings
• Pedestrian-friendly planning
• Electric transportation
• Solar-powered facilities
• Low-carbon work environment

Requirements:

• At least one shareholder
• One director
• General manager
• Company secretary

Source: Official Masdar City website, ADIO

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4. twofour54 Free Zone

Overview: A free zone dedicated to media and entertainment in Abu Dhabi, located at Yas Creative Hub.

Main Specializations:

• Content creation
• Media production
• Gaming
• Digital media
• Broadcasting

Resident Companies: BBC, CNN, Thomson Reuters Foundation, Financial Times

Features:

• Modern production facilities
• Access to top industry talent
• Comprehensive production services
• Support for international and regional projects

Source: Official twofour54 website

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5. Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD)

Overview: An economic zone supporting various industrial businesses.

Specializations:

• Oil and gas
• Engineering
• Construction materials
• Heavy industries

Management: Managed by ZonesCorp, the UAE’s largest operator of dedicated industrial zones.

Strategic Location: Easy access to four major Abu Dhabi ports within less than an hour:

• Mussafah Port
• Zayed Port
• Khalifa Port
• Jebel Ali Port

Source: ZonesCorp website, MyBayut Reports

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6. Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone (ADAFZ)

Specializations:

• Aviation and aerospace
• Import and export
• Flight services
• Logistics and transport
• Maintenance and repair

Location: Near Abu Dhabi International Airport.

Source: Official ADAFZ website

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Part Three: Sharjah Free Zones

1. Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone)

Overview: Established in 1995, it’s the first airport free zone to receive ISO 9001 certification.

Facts & Statistics:

• Hosts over 8,000 companies from 160 countries
• Issues licenses within one hour

Strategic Location: Located at Sharjah International Airport building with easy access to:

• Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi ports
• Dubai International Airport
• Sharjah International Airport

Specializations:

• Trade and import/export
• Industry and manufacturing
• Logistics services

Costs:

• License fees start from AED 8,500 annually

Features:

• Dedicated modern infrastructure
• Internal customs for fast goods clearance
• Prefabricated warehouses
• Land plots for major industries
• On-site worker accommodation

Source: Official SAIF Zone website, Invest in Sharjah

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2. Hamriyah Free Zone (HFZA)

Overview: The second-largest industrial free zone in the UAE, located on the seacoast between Ajman and Umm Al Quwain emirates.

Facts & Statistics:

• Hosts over 6,500 companies from 163 countries
• Total investment exceeds AED 11 billion
• 700 new companies joined in H1 2010
• Road network expanded by 80 km

Location: Next to Hamriyah Port with easy access to major highways.

Specializations:

• Heavy industries
• Petrochemicals
• Metal manufacturing
• Plastic industries
• Logistics and storage

Facilities:

• Refrigerated storage facilities
• Ready warehouses
• Extensive industrial lands
• Integrated port services

Costs:

• Competitive setup packages starting from AED 7,500
• Flexible rental options

Source: Official HFZA website, Sharjah Investment Reports

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3. Sharjah Publishing City (SPC)

Overview: The world’s first free zone dedicated entirely to the publishing industry, established in 2017.

Facts & Statistics:

• Over 7,000 registered companies
• Represents 150 countries worldwide

Location: Located next to Sharjah International Airport and close to ports.

Specializations:

• Publishing (books, magazines, newspapers)
• Printing and distribution
• Digital publishing
• Intellectual property rights
• Content translation
• Graphic design

Unique Features:

• World’s first free zone for publishing
• Complete support for book industry
• Digital libraries and distribution services
• Partnerships with global publishers

Costs:

• Packages starting from AED 8,000 annually
• Diverse office options

Source: Official SPC website, Sharjah Investment

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4. Sharjah Media City (Shams)

Overview: A leading free zone for media and technology in Sharjah, known for speed and efficiency.

Facts & Statistics:

• Over 20,000 registered companies
• Represents 170 countries
• Issues licenses within 15 minutes only
• 12% annual growth in registered companies

Main Specializations:

• Media and production
• Technology and digital services
• E-commerce
• Digital marketing
• Consulting
• Education and training
• Creative design

Features:

• Fastest license issuance in UAE (15 minutes)
• 100% digital process
• Very competitive costs
• Over 2,000 available business activities
• No need for personal office visit

Costs:

• Packages starting from AED 5,900 annually (including license + co-working office)
• Flexible options for virtual and private offices

Popular Packages:

• Freelancer Package: For freelancers
• Startup Package: For startups
• Business Package: For medium companies

Source: Official Shams website, Gulf News Reports 2025

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5. Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF)

Note: Previously mentioned as SAIF Zone

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6. Sharjah Maritime City

Specializations:

• Maritime industries
• Shipbuilding and repair
• Maritime logistics services

Facilities:

• Shipbuilding yards
• Advanced repair facilities
• Strategic coastal location

Source: Sharjah Investment

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Part Four: Ras Al Khaimah Free Zones

1. Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)

Overview: One of the most competitive and fastest free zones in the UAE, comprising several specialized zones.

Facts & Statistics:

• Over 23,000 registered companies (making it one of the largest)
• Represents 100+ nationalities
• Issues licenses within hours
• 98% customer satisfaction rate

Zones Merged Under RAKEZ:

1. RAK Free Trade Zone (FTZ)
2. RAK Maritime City
3. RAK Media Free Zone
4. RAK Investment Authority

Wide Specializations:

• General trade
• Industry and manufacturing
• Logistics services
• Consulting
• Technology
• Media and production

Unique Features:

• Very low costs (lowest in UAE)
• Fast procedures (license issuance in one day)
• High flexibility in activities
• No minimum capital requirement
• Possibility of establishing company without physical office (Flexi Desk)

Costs:

• Packages starting from AED 4,995 annually
• Cheapest free zone in UAE

Popular Packages:

• Individual Package: License + 1 visa = approximately AED 14,000
• Corporate Package: For larger companies
• Industrial Package: For industrial activities

Source: Official RAKEZ website, Vertix Auditing, Forbes Middle East

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2. RAK Maritime City

Overview: Now integrated under RAKEZ, specialized in maritime industries.

Specializations:

• Building and repairing ships and yachts
• Marine engineering
• Maritime services
• Manufacturing marine equipment

Facilities:

• Dry docks
• Advanced workshop facilities
• Docks and berths
• Specialized warehouses

Location: On the coast with easy access to main maritime corridors.

Source: Official RAKEZ website

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3. RAK Media Free Zone

Overview: Integrated under RAKEZ, specialized in media and production.

Specializations:

• Media and broadcasting
• TV and film production
• Digital content
• Marketing and advertising

Features:

• Low costs
• Modern infrastructure
• Integrated production support

Source: Official RAKEZ website

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Part Five: Fujairah Free Zones

1. Fujairah Free Zone (FFZ)

Overview: A strategic zone located on the UAE’s east coast, the only one overlooking the Sea of Oman and outside the Strait of Hormuz.

Facts & Statistics:

• Established in 1987
• Over 6,000 registered companies
• Represents 150+ countries

Strategic Location:

• Only one on Sea of Oman (outside Strait of Hormuz)
• Close to Fujairah Port (world’s second-largest bunkering port)
• Easy access to Asian markets

Main Specializations:

• Oil and petroleum trade
• Logistics and shipping
• International trade
• Maritime services
• Storage and distribution

Features:

• Unique location outside Strait of Hormuz
• Deep water port
• Massive oil storage facilities
• Competitive costs
• Fast procedures

Costs:

• Packages starting from AED 7,900 annually
• Diverse office options

Source: Official FFZ website, FZ Buddy

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2. Fujairah Airport Free Zone

Specializations:

• Aviation and air transport
• Fast logistics
• Light trade

Location: Next to Fujairah International Airport.

Source: UAE Ministry Reports

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3. Fujairah Creative City

Overview: A free zone specialized in creative and media industries.

Specializations:

• Media and arts
• Creative production
• Design and fashion
• Cultural services

Features:

• Stimulating creative environment
• Studios and production facilities
• Reasonable costs

Source: Fujairah Creative City Official

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Part Six: Ajman Free Zones

1. Ajman Free Zone (AFZ)

Overview: An integrated free zone offering comprehensive services at competitive costs.

Facts & Statistics:

• Established in 1988
• Over 13,000 registered companies
• Represents 130+ countries

Location: Located between Dubai and Sharjah with easy access to both emirates.

Specializations:

• General trading
• Logistics services
• Light industries
• Consulting
• Technology

Features:

• Strategic location between Dubai and Sharjah
• Very low costs
• Proximity to major ports and airports
• Simplified procedures
• Excellent customer service

Costs:

• Among the cheapest free zones in UAE
• Packages starting from AED 5,500 annually

Source: Official AFZ website, Business Setup Dubai

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2. Ajman Media City

Overview: A modern zone specialized in media and digital technology sector.

Specializations:

• Media and production
• Digital marketing
• E-commerce
• Software development

Features:

• Modern infrastructure
• Competitive costs
• Advanced digital services

Source: Ajman Media City Official

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Part Seven: Umm Al Quwain Free Zones

1. UAQ Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ)

Overview: A growing free zone offering flexible options and low costs.

Facts & Statistics:

• Established in 1987
• Over 4,000 companies

Location: Located on the coast between Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah.

Specializations:

• General trade
• Logistics
• Light industries
• Services

Features:

• Very low costs
• Quiet and stable location
• Proximity to ports
• Fast procedures

Costs:

• Among the cheapest zones in UAE
• Affordable packages for small companies

Source: Official UAQ FTZ website

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2. UAQ Marine Club Free Zone

Specializations:

• Water sports
• Maritime services
• Recreational tourism

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Part Eight: Comprehensive Comparison – How to Choose the Right Free Zone?

Main Comparison Criteria:

1. By Cost (Cheapest to Most Expensive):

Cheapest:

• RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah): from AED 4,995
• Ajman Free Zone: from AED 5,500
• Shams (Sharjah): from AED 5,900
• UAQ Free Zone: from AED 6,000
• IFZA (Dubai Silicon Oasis): from AED 5,750

Medium Cost:

• SAIF Zone (Sharjah): from AED 8,500
• Fujairah Free Zone: from AED 7,900
• Meydan Free Zone: from AED 13,000

Highest Cost:

• DMCC (Dubai): from AED 12,500+
• DIFC (Dubai): from AED 50,000+
• ADGM (Abu Dhabi): from AED 45,000+

2. By Speed of Issuance:

Fastest:

• Shams: 15 minutes
• RAKEZ: Few hours
• SAIF Zone: One hour
• Ajman Free Zone: One day

Fast:

• IFZA: 1-3 days
• Meydan: 2-3 days
• DMCC: 3-5 days

Moderate:

• DIFC: 1-2 weeks
• ADGM: 1-2 weeks
• KEZAD: 1-2 weeks

3. By Industry Specialization:

For Technology & Tech:

• Dubai Internet City
• Dubai Silicon Oasis
• IFZA
• Masdar City (for sustainable tech)

For Financial Services:

• DIFC (Dubai) – Most globally renowned
• ADGM (Abu Dhabi) – Strong competitor

For International Trade:

• DMCC (Dubai)
• JAFZA (Dubai)
• Fujairah Free Zone (for trade with Asia)

For Industry & Manufacturing:

• JAFZA (Dubai)
• KEZAD (Abu Dhabi)
• Hamriyah Free Zone (Sharjah)
• RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah)

For Media & Production:

• Dubai Media City
• Shams (Sharjah)
• twofour54 (Abu Dhabi)
• RAK Media Free Zone

For Publishing:

• Sharjah Publishing City (Only specialized one)

For Maritime Industries:

• Dubai Maritime City
• RAK Maritime City
• Hamriyah Free Zone
• Sharjah Maritime City

For Aviation & Logistics:

• Dubai South
• DAFZA
• Fujairah Airport Free Zone
• Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone

4. By Geographic Location:

Dubai (Most Dynamic):

• Ideal for companies wanting strong presence
• Advanced infrastructure
• Easy global access
• Higher costs

Abu Dhabi (Stability & Quality):

• Ideal for major projects
• Economic stability
• Strong government support
• High standards

Sharjah (Optimal Balance):

• Reasonable costs
• Close to Dubai
• Fast procedures
• Diverse options

Ras Al Khaimah (Cheapest):

• Lowest cost
• Ideal for small projects
• Easy procedures
• Relatively far from Dubai (45 minutes)

Fujairah (Unique Location):

• Only one on Sea of Oman
• Outside Strait of Hormuz
• Ideal for trade with Asia
• Oil and energy sector

Ajman & Umm Al Quwain:

• Very low costs
• Ideal for small projects
• Close to Dubai and Sharjah
• Less famous

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Part Nine: General Advantages of UAE Free Zones

Common Benefits for All Free Zones:

1. Full Ownership: 100% foreign ownership without local partner
2. Tax Exemptions:
   • 0% personal income tax
   • 0% corporate tax for qualifying companies
   • 0% import and export tax
   • 5% VAT (if income exceeds AED 375,000)
3. Freedom of Capital Transfer:
   • Full profit and capital repatriation
   • No foreign currency restrictions
   • Bank accounts in any currency
4. Visas:
   • Residence visas for investors
   • Employee visas
   • Golden Visa possibility (5-10 years)
5. Privacy & Protection:
   • Complete asset protection
   • Information confidentiality
   • No employment restrictions

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Part Ten: Tips for Choosing the Ideal Free Zone

1. Determine Your Activity Nature First

• Do you need commercial, industrial or professional license?
• Does your activity require specialized zone?

2. Set Your Budget

• Calculate complete costs (license + office + visas + renewal)
• Plan for at least first two years

3. Think About Target Location

• Do you need proximity to specific airport?
• Do you need proximity to port?
• Do you need access to local market?

4. Compare Offered Services

• Issuance speed
• Administrative support
• Available facilities
• Infrastructure quality

5. Consult Local Expert

• Licensed setup companies
• Specialized lawyers
• Financial consultants

6. Read Others’ Experiences

• Company reviews
• Investor ratings
• Business forums

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Part Eleven: Documented Statistics & Information

Official Numbers:

Nationwide:

• 45+ specialized free zones
• Over 100,000 registered companies
• Represent 163 countries worldwide
• 30%+ of GDP

Top 5 Free Zones by Company Count:

1. RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah): 23,000+ companies
2. Shams (Sharjah): 20,000+ companies
3. DMCC (Dubai): 20,000+ companies
4. Ajman Free Zone: 13,000+ companies
5. JAFZA (Dubai): 8,000+ companies

Growth Rates:

• DMCC: 23% increase in British companies
• Shams: 12% annual growth
• RAKEZ: 98% satisfaction rate

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Conclusion

The United Arab Emirates offers an exceptional ecosystem of specialized free zones that meet all investor and entrepreneur needs. From vibrant Dubai to stable Abu Dhabi, from competitive Sharjah to economical Ras Al Khaimah, to Fujairah’s unique location, each zone offers unique advantages suited to different goals and sectors.

The key to success is choosing the free zone that aligns with:

• Your business nature
• Your budget
• Your target geographic location
• Your infrastructure needs
• Your future growth expectations

In 2025, the UAE continues to develop and update its free zone system, focusing on digitization, innovation and sustainability, making it the premier business destination in the Middle East and the world.

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Major Documented Sources

1. Official websites of each free zone
2. UAE Ministry of Economy (www.moec.gov.ae)
3. Arabian Business Reports 2025
4. Invest in Sharjah
5. Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO)
6. Forbes Middle East Reports
7. Gulf News Business Section
8. Vertix Auditing Reports
9. Safe Ledger Business Insights
10. FZ Buddy Analytics
11. Wikipedia – List of Free Trade Zones in UAE
12. CE Interim Business Setup Guide

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Legal Disclaimer: All information in this guide has been collected from reliable sources and official websites. However, it’s always recommended to contact the relevant free zone directly to confirm the latest prices, requirements and procedures, as this information is subject to change.

For inquiries or information updates: Please contact via wahapro.com