Free zones in the United Arab Emirates

Free zones in thea United Arab Emirates are a major focus for the success of the national economy and the promotion of international investment and trade. In cooperation with Itqan Company, in this article we will explore many aspects of free zones in the Emirates and their investment benefits.

Itqan Company is a reliable strategic partner for investors who want to benefit from investment opportunities in free zones. They provide the necessary support to companies and investors to enter this thriving investment environment and benefit from its facilities and advantages.

In this article, we will review the importance of free zones in the UAE and how they contribute to enhancing economic growth and providing job opportunities. We will also address strategic sectors of particular focus in these regions, such as logistics, manufacturing, technology, financial and consulting services. We will highlight the facilities and advantages provided by free zones, such as tax exemptions, fast customs clearance, and advanced infrastructure.

We will also talk about the national investment programs that free zones promote and provide unique opportunities for investors. We will shed light on the UAE’s investment legislation and policies and how they protect investors’ rights and encourage foreign direct investment.

Through this article, you will be able to have a deeper understanding of the free zones in the UAE and how Itqan can be a strategic partner to achieve your investment goals. You will learn the necessary steps to take advantage of investment opportunities in free zones and how to build a successful and prosperous business in this evolving economic environment.

Free zones in the United Arab Emirates

What is the free zone in Dubai?

Dubai free zones are special economic zones that aim to promote foreign investment by providing a favorable business environment with attractive incentives, such as full foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplifying administrative procedures. These areas give investors and companies access to modern infrastructure and advanced logistics services. Here is a comprehensive look at the concept of free zones in Dubai:

The concept of free zones
Free zones are geographically defined economic zones, where facilities and benefits are provided to companies operating there, with the aim of attracting foreign investments and encouraging commercial and industrial activities.

Free zones in the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is characterized by several free zones that provide an ideal environment for investment and business encouragement. Among these free zones:

1. Dubai Free Zone (Southern Mountain Container): It is considered one of the oldest and largest free zones in the Emirates and provides a developed and diverse investment environment for companies in various sectors.
2. Dubai Technology and Media District (Dubai Media City): Focuses on startups and technology and provides advanced infrastructure and distinguished support programs.
3. Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone: It is located in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah and offers attractive benefits such as tax exemptions and customs facilities for companies.
4. Fujairah Free Zone: It is characterized by advanced infrastructure and provides an ideal environment for industrial, logistical and tourism companies.
5. Abu Dhabi Free Zone (KIZAD): It is considered one of the largest free zones in the Emirates and provides a developed and diverse investment environment.
6. Umm Al Quwain Light and Medium Industries Zone: It focuses on small and medium-sized companies and provides a suitable investment environment for light industries.
7. Sharjah Technology and Innovation Zone (Shareko): It is characterized by providing an advanced environment for startups and technology and encouraging innovation.

How to invest in free zones in the UAE

To invest in free zones in the UAE , these steps can be followed:

• Research and analysis: Study the various free zones in the Emirates and analyze the investment opportunities available in each zone, including the advantages and facilities it offers.
• Choosing the right area: Base your choice on the type of work you want to do, the needs of the company, and your target market.
• Communicate with the relevant authorities: Contact the competent government agencies in the free zone in which you wish to invest to obtain information about the necessary procedures and licenses.
• Submitting an investment application: Submit an application to obtain the necessary licenses and establish the company in the free zone, and follow the necessary procedures to register the company and obtain the necessary licenses.
• Establishing the company: Create the company, complete the necessary procedures for registration and establishment, determine the company structure, and sign the necessary contracts.
• Starting to work: After obtaining the necessary licenses and establishing the company, you can start doing business in the free zone and benefit from the available benefits and facilities.
• Monitor and evaluate performance: Monitor your company’s performance, evaluate results regularly, and adjust strategies as needed to ensure continued success in the market.

Conditions for investing in free zones in the UAE

Conditions for investment in free zones in the United Arab Emirates may differ slightly according to each free zone and there are different rules and regulations, but in general, the basic conditions can be summarized as follows:

1. Type of economic activity: The activity you wish to engage in must be permitted in the free zone and comply with local laws and legislation.
2. Investment capital: Some free zones may require specific investment capital to establish the company, which can vary depending on the type of activity and the size of the company.
3. Company license: The investor must obtain a license from the relevant authorities in the free zone, which may include prior approval of the investment plan and company structure.
4. Compliance with laws and legislation: The investor must adhere to local laws and legislation in the United Arab Emirates, including labor, tax, intellectual property, and other laws.
5. Employing local labor: Some free zones may require the employment of a certain percentage of local labor as part of the investment conditions.
6. Commitment to environmental standards: The investor must adhere to environmental and sustainability standards in his business activities.
7. Applying for licenses and permits: Applications must be submitted to obtain the necessary licenses and permits from the competent authorities in the free zone.

Investing in free zones

Investment costs in free zones in the UAE

The costs of investing in free zones in the United Arab Emirates vary based on several factors, including the type of investment activity, the size of the company, and the free zone you choose. However, some of the major costs that may be associated with investing in these areas can be summarized as follows:

• Incorporation and licensing costs: These include the costs of establishing and registering the company, and the costs of obtaining the necessary licenses and permits to start the business.
• Real estate costs: Real estate costs are among the most important costs for companies in free zones, and these costs vary based on the size of the area and location.
• Labor costs: These include the costs of hiring and training the company’s required workers, including salaries, fringe benefits, and health insurance costs.
• Shipping and Logistics Costs: Shipping and logistics costs may include transportation, warehousing, customs clearance, and taxes related to international trade.
• Administrative and support services costs: Includes administrative services costs such as financial management, accounting, marketing, legal and consulting support.
• Maintenance and infrastructure costs: Maintenance and infrastructure costs include general maintenance costs for the free zone’s buildings, equipment and infrastructure.
• Taxes and fees costs: Taxes and fees costs vary based on the tax laws and fees applied in each free zone.

Steps to establish a company in the free zones in Dubai

• Determine the type of activity.
• Choose a trade name.
• Applying for a commercial license.
• Choosing work facilities and offices.
• Obtaining initial approvals.
• Establishment registration.
• Completing licensing and work permit procedures.

Determine the type of activity.

• Identifying the activity is the first step in obtaining a business license. Through the activity, the parties associated with this activity and the permitted legal forms are identified.
• The legal entity of free zone establishments in the country takes one of the following two types:
• Free zone limited liability company
• Free zone establishment

The difference between the two types lies in the number of shareholders and the nature of the shareholder, whether a natural or legal person. Not all free zones are obligated to register these two types of establishments, so the investor must refer to the body responsible for managing each free zone individually to inquire about the legal structure available for the type of activity to be practiced.

• The DMCC allows the creation of a limited liability company, which takes the form of a wholly subsidiary of a local or foreign company.
• Existing local and foreign companies can establish branches in other free zones.

capital

• Capital requirements in free zones in the country vary depending on the region and activity.
• For example, there is no minimum capital at twofour54 Abu Dhabi.
• Fikizad, the minimum paid-up capital to establish a limited liability company is AED 150,000.
• You can establish a free zone enterprise (FZE) in the Dubai Airport Free Zone with a minimum of one thousand UAE dirhams of required capital.
• In order for the company to be able to obtain a general trade license, it must provide a minimum share capital of: one million UAE dirhams.
• As for Hamriyah, the investor can establish a free zone enterprise with a share capital of 150,000 UAE dirhams.

Choose a trade name.

• When determining the type of legal entity for your business activity, you should also think about choosing a trade name that is appropriate for the activity.
• In most cases, you must refer to the relevant free zone authority, or the relevant Department of Economic Development, to find out the authorized trade names and whether the name intended by you has been previously registered by a company.
• The name “Abu Dhabi” or “United Arab Emirates” cannot be used to name a limited liability company or a branch of a company. The region will inform the customer whether the name you intend to use has been previously registered in the media region, and you can confirm for yourself with the Department of Economic Development.
• The district can also provide an assessment of whether the name you intend to use is valid.
• On the other hand, the Departments of Economic Development require certain conditions to approve a trade name, including:
• It must not be contrary to public order and morals.
• It must be followed by something that indicates the legal entity of the company, such as: (LLC, S.P.C., S.P.C., FZE).
• Must not be registered or used for the same or similar type of activity.
• It must comply with the nature of the activity and the required legal form.
• It must not include sectarian or sectarian names, the names of the ruling authority, or the names and logos of local, Arab and international bodies, institutions and organizations.
• It must not be identical or similar to a local or international trademark registered with the Ministry of Economy.

Applying for a commercial license.

• The type of license you seek depends on the core activity of your business.
• For example: In the DMCC, you can choose from 600 businesses across 20 sectors, such as energy, commodities, gold, diamonds, technology, construction, FMCG, healthcare, aviation and shipping, education, media, and professional, financial, personal and community services.
• The DMCC allows the establishment of “single family offices” that maintain the conventional entity of free zone companies. Through these offices, it is possible to provide services to a single family member, family business, family institutional entity, or family cash funds.
• These may be owned by one or more people, or by a corporate entity with shareholders from the same family.
• In DIFC, you can do both financial and non-financial activities. Financial activities include banking, insurance, wealth management, and capital markets. Non-financial activities include: retail stores, restaurants, five-star hotels, art galleries and academic institutes. You can read more about business areas in the DIFC (link available in English only).
  Accordingly, some types of business licenses include the following:
• Business license
• Consulting/services license
• Industrial license
• Educational license
• Media license
• E-commerce license
• Offshore companies license
• Free employee licence
• Warehouse license
• Manufacturing license

Selection of offices and work facilities

In free zones, you can buy or rent office space, and office requirements depend on the number of employees and the type of business activity of the company.

In DMCC, you can rent flexible offices of 20-30 square meters, flexible offices of 200-265 square metres, or offices across multiple floors with a total area of ​​2,000 square meters each.

As for the Dubai Airport Free Zone, there are two office offers: the gold package, which provides you with an office space of 55 to 58.99 square meters, or the silver package, which provides you with an office space of 50 to 54.99 square meters.

Obtaining initial approvals.
Establishments established in free zones are subject to the laws and regulations that govern each specific free zone body or authority.

In order to obtain the necessary approvals, you must apply for the necessary documents. The list of documents varies according to the type of activity and the requirements of the free zone authority.

In order to obtain initial approvals, you need the following:

• An application form for initial approval, complete with the required information
• Action Plan
• A copy of the existing business license/registration certificate (for existing companies, this applies to local companies only)
• Color copies of the passports of the company’s shareholders, and the director or member of management appointed to the new company
• A signature form for both the shareholders of the company, and the director or member of management appointed for the new company
• Audited financial reports on the company’s budget for two years, or a reference certificate from each shareholder’s bank
• No objection letter from the current sponsor (for individuals)
• Title deed for the real estate unit
• Letter of intent
• A form with the commercial registry identification code for the manager/member of management (submit the original copy officially certified by a notary public)

The freelancer needs to provide a smaller amount of documentation, and in most cases must:

• Submit a request for registration
• biography
• Reference letter from the bank
• A form with the commercial registry identification code (submit the original copy, officially authenticated by a notary public)

Establishment registration

After obtaining initial approvals, you must pay the registration fees and license fees. Fees depend on the type of license required.

Documents required for registration:

• Request to register with complete data
• Board of Directors’ decision to appoint a director of the company/management member (officially authenticated by a notary and authenticated)
• A legal power of attorney through which the director/management member is authorized (officially authenticated by a notary and authenticated)
• The company’s articles of incorporation and articles of association (officially authenticated by a notary and authenticated)
• Director/management member signature form (officially notarized and authenticated by a notary public)
• A personal photo of the director/management member with a white background
• Information about share capital

Licensing procedures and work permits

• Leasing agreements are prepared by the relevant authority
• After that, a commercial license is issued
• Then, the work begins with issuing work permits and visas

What are the most famous free zones in Dubai?

Dubai is considered one of the most prominent global destinations for business and trade, thanks to the presence of many free zones that offer multiple investment facilities and benefits. Here is an overview of some of the most famous free zones in Dubai:

1. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
Jebel Ali Free Zone is one of the largest and oldest free zones in Dubai, established in 1985. JAFZA provides various services to companies of various sizes, making it a strategic center for trade and transportation. It is located near Jebel Ali Port, which is one of the largest ports in the world.

2. Dubai Internet City (DIC)
Established in 1999, Dubai Internet City is a global hub for technology and communications companies. This region hosts many major companies such as Microsoft, Google, and Facebook, and provides a supportive environment for innovation and growth in the technology sector.

3. Dubai Media City (DMC)
Established in 2001, Dubai Media City is a media and entertainment hub. This region is home to many major media companies, including television and radio networks, publishing and media production companies.

4. Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC)
The DIFC has been a global financial center since its establishment in 2004. The DIFC provides an independent regulatory and legislative environment consistent with international standards, making it a preferred destination for banks and financial institutions.

5. Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC)
Established in 2002, Dubai Healthcare City is a free zone dedicated to healthcare and medical services. The city includes a wide range of hospitals and medical clinics, and provides a supportive environment for research and development in the field of medicine.

6. Dubai South:
Dubai South was established in 2006 and is an integrated region that includes Al Maktoum International Airport, and aims to develop the infrastructure for transportation and logistics services. This area is a major hub for Expo 2020.

7. Dubai Multi Commodities Center (DMCC)
Established in 2002, the Dubai Multi Commodities Center is a free zone specializing in the trade of basic commodities such as gold, diamonds and tea. DMCC provides an integrated trading environment with advanced infrastructure.

Free zone laws

Dubai’s free zones are one of the most important economic engines of the emirate, as they provide a legal and regulatory environment conducive to investment. Here is an overview of the laws and regulations governing free zones in Dubai:

1. Incorporation and
Licensing Registration and incorporation: Companies wishing to operate in free zones must register with the relevant free zone authority, such as the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) or the Dubai Multi Commodities Center (DMCC).
Types of licenses: Available licenses include commercial, industrial, and service licenses, depending on the type of activity that the company intends to practice.
Foreign Ownership: Free zone laws allow 100% foreign ownership of companies, which enhances their attractiveness to foreign investors.
2. Taxes and customs
Tax exemptions: Companies in free zones enjoy full tax exemptions on income and profits for periods of up to 50 years, subject to renewal.
Customs exemption: Goods imported into free zones are exempt from customs duties, which facilitates import and export operations.
3. Labor Laws
Employment Contracts: Employment contracts in free zones are regulated according to the labor laws of each free zone, which may differ slightly from the federal labor laws in the Emirates.
Visas and Residences: Authorities in free zones provide facilities for obtaining work and residency visas for workers and their families.
4. Regulatory laws
Governance and supervision: Companies in free zones are subject to the supervision of the regulatory authorities specific to each region, which ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
Environmental Laws: Some free zones require adherence to strict environmental standards, where companies are encouraged to adopt environmentally friendly practices.
5. Dispute resolution
Dispute resolution mechanisms: Most free zones provide independent commercial dispute resolution bodies, such as the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) courts, which follow English laws.
6. Intellectual Property Protection
Intellectual Property Rights: Dubai Free Zones are committed to protecting intellectual property rights, and provide effective legal procedures to guarantee the rights of companies and individuals in this regard.
7. Financial and regulatory compliance
Anti-money laundering: Companies in free zones are required to comply with anti-money laundering and terrorist financing standards, and to submit the necessary financial reports.

The time period for establishing companies in free zones in Dubai

Dubai is an attractive destination for establishing companies due to its supportive investment environment, especially in free zones. Speed ​​and efficiency in incorporation procedures are notable advantages of these areas. Here’s a look at the time required to set up companies in Dubai’s free zones and the steps involved:

Time period for establishing companies in free zones
1. Initial submission and initial approval (1-3 days)
Choosing the business activity: It begins with choosing the type of commercial activity that the company intends to practice.
Submitting an application: An application is submitted to the relevant free zone authority, including activity data, partners, and company details.
Initial approval: The application is reviewed and initial approval is obtained from the competent authority, which usually takes between 1 to 3 days.
2. Reserving the trade name and preparing documents (2-5 days)
Reserving the trade name: After initial approval, the company’s trade name must be reserved. This usually takes one day.
Preparing legal documents: The required documents include the company’s articles of incorporation and articles of association, in addition to copies of the passports of partners and shareholders. Preparing these documents may take from 2 to 5 days.
3. Submitting documents and obtaining the license (5-10 days)
Submitting final documents: After preparing the documents, they are submitted to the free zone authority for final review.
Payment of fees: You must pay the fees required to register the company and obtain the license.
Receiving the license: After reviewing the documents and ensuring their accuracy, the commercial license is issued. This process usually takes 5 to 10 days.
4. Renting an office and obtaining visas (7-14 days)
Renting an office or work space: The company must rent an office or work space within the free zone. It takes 3 to 7 days to find the right office and sign the lease.
Obtaining work visas: After receiving the license and registering the lease, the company can apply for work visas for employees. The visa issuance process may take 7 to 14 days.
5. Bank account opening (7-14 days)
Bank selection: After receiving the license, the company can open a business bank account. Choosing the right bank requires research and comparison between offers.
Bank procedures: Bank account opening procedures require submitting official company documents and going through a verification process by the bank, which may take from 7 to 14 days.

Free zones in Dubai

The free zones in Dubai are considered one of the most important engines of the UAE economy, as these areas are an ideal environment for investment and business encouragement. Free zones in Dubai provide several competitive advantages, including not imposing taxes on income. The types of free zones in Dubai are divided as follows:

Advantages of free zones in Dubai

Dubai’s free zones have several advantages that make them an ideal destination for companies looking for a suitable and encouraging investment environment. One of the most important of these advantages is that no taxes are imposed on income on companies registered in those areas for a period of up to 50 years. Among these advantages are:

1. Tax exemptions: Companies in free zones enjoy income and corporate tax exemptions for specified periods of time, which reduces business costs and increases profits.
2. Customs facilities: Free zones in the Emirates provide customs facilities such as not imposing customs duties and customs duties on import and export, which facilitates international trade operations.
3. Strategic Location: The free zones in the UAE are strategically located along global trade corridors, facilitating access to global markets.
4. Advanced infrastructure: Free zones provide advanced infrastructure that includes sea, air and land ports, logistical, warehousing, manufacturing and assembly facilities, which facilitates transportation and distribution operations.
5. Government support: The UAE government provides significant support to companies in free zones by providing financing programs, banking facilities, consulting services, and support for research and development.
6. Flexible legislation: Free zones enjoy flexible and simplified legislation that facilitates procedures for establishing and operating companies, which reduces bureaucracy and increases the speed of response to companies’ needs.
7. Economic Diversity: Free zones provide great economic diversity, as companies in various sectors can take advantage of the available infrastructure and resources to effectively grow their businesses.

At the conclusion of this comprehensive article about free zones in the United Arab Emirates , we can confirm that these zones are a vital investment center and an attractive station for investors from all over the world. These areas promote economic growth, enhance international trade, and provide an excellent investment environment and competitive advantages that make them an ideal destination for business.

Through its partnership with Itqan Company, the free zones provide distinguished investment opportunities and strategic support to investors. The company contributes to facilitating the entry of companies and investors into this advanced investment environment and providing the services necessary for success and prosperity. It works to provide knowledge, technical support, assistance in implementing business strategies, and legal and financial facilities.

Free zones in the UAE enjoy many advantages and facilities, such as tax exemptions, fast customs clearance, and advanced infrastructure. It also offers a multicultural work environment and laws that encourage investment and protect investors’ rights. It provides companies with the opportunity to access the Middle East, Africa and Asia market and promotes international trade.

Thanks to national investment programmes, strategic partnerships and a focus on strategic sectors, free zones in the UAE provide diverse opportunities for investors. From start-ups and SMEs to large corporations, these regions provide an ideal environment for innovation and business development.

Ultimately, the UAE’s free zones reflect its commitment to fostering an innovative economy and providing a globally competitive investment environment. By benefiting from Itqan’s experience and the advice provided, investors can achieve sustainable success and continuous development in the free zones in the Emirates.

The most important frequently asked questions about free zones in the Emirates