Freezone is a designated area within a country where businesses can operate with special tax and regulatory benefits. In the UAE, there are over 40 free zones located in different emirates, each with its own set of rules and regulations. A free zone company is a business entity that is registered in a free zone in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Free zones are special economic zones that offer a number of benefits to businesses, such as 100% foreign ownership, no corporate taxes, and low import and export duties.

To set up a free zone company in the UAE, you will need to choose a free zone, register your company, and obtain the necessary licenses and permits. The process of setting up a free zone company can be complex, so it is important to get professional help from a business setup consultant.

Here are the steps involved in setting up a free zone company in the UAE:

1- Choose a free zone
2- Register your company
3- Obtain the necessary licenses and permits
4- Set up your office
5- Hire employees:
6- Start operating your business

Here are some of the benefits of setting up a company in a free zone over the Mainland in the UAE:

• 100% foreign ownership: Free zones allow 100% foreign ownership of businesses, which means that you do not need to have a local partner. Mainland companies, on the other hand, require a 51% local ownership stake. This can be a major barrier to entry for foreign investors.
• No corporate taxes: There are no corporate taxes in free zones, which can save you a significant amount of money. Mainland companies, on the other hand, are subject to corporate taxes of up to 9%.
• Low import and export duties: Free zones have low import and export duties, which can help you to reduce your costs. Mainland companies, on the other hand, are subject to import and export duties that can add up to a significant percentage of the cost of goods sold.
• Simplistic business setup process: The process of setting up a company in a free zone is relatively simple and straightforward. Mainland companies, on the other hand, can have a complex and time-consuming setup process.
• Favorable business environment: Free zones offer a favorable business environment, which can help you to grow your business. Mainland companies, on the other hand, can face challenges such as bureaucracy, corruption, and a lack of transparency.

Here are some of the reasons why you might choose a free zone over the mainland:

• If you are a foreign investor: If you are a foreign investor, you will need to have a local partner to set up a company on the mainland. However, you can set up a company in a free zone with 100% foreign ownership.
• If you are looking for tax benefits: Free zones offer a number of tax benefits, such as no corporate taxes and low import and export duties.
• If you are looking for a simplified business setup process: The process of setting up a company in a free zone is relatively simple and straightforward.
• If you are looking for a favorable business environment: Free zones offer a favorable business environment, which can help you to grow your business.

Here are some tips on how to choose the right free zone for your business in the UAE:

1. Consider your business type: Some free zones are better suited for certain types of businesses than others. For example, Dubai Media City is a good choice for media companies, while Dubai Internet City is a good choice for technology companies.
2. Consider the location of the free zone: Some free zones are located in more convenient locations than others. For example, Dubai International Financial Centre is located close to Dubai International Airport, which makes it easy for international travelers to do business there.
3. Consider the cost of setting up a company: The cost of setting up a company in a free zone varies from free zone to free zone. It’s important to compare the costs of different free zones before making a decision.
4. Consider the services and support offered by the free zone authority: Some free zone authorities offer a wider range of services and support than others. For example, Dubai Airport Free Zone offers a range of services to help businesses with their logistics and supply chain needs.
5. Speak to other businesses that have set up free zones: Get their insights and recommendations on which free zone is the best fit for your business.

1. Sharjah Media City (Sharjah Media City)
2. Sharjah Airport Free Zone (SAIF Zone)
3. Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTI Park)
4. Sharjah Publishing City (SPC)
5. Sharjah Knowledge Oasis (SKO)
6. Sharjah SME Centre (SMSC)
7. Sharjah Logistics City (SLC)
8. Sharjah Energy City (SEC)
9. Sharjah Food Zone (SFZ)
10. Sharjah Health City (SHC)

1. Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
2. Ras Al Khaimah Media City (RKM)
3. Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ)
4. Ras Al Khaimah Industrial Park (RAKIP)
5. Ras Al Khaimah SME Centre (RAK SME)
6. Ras Al Khaimah Food Zone (RAKFZ)
7. Ras Al Khaimah Health City (RAKHC)
8. Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA)
9. Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RAKCCI):
10. Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKAI)

Choosing the right Free Zone for your business in the UAE can be a complex decision, but with AL DUHA, it doesn’t have to be. AL DUHA offers comprehensive business solutions that simplify your path to success. Our team of experts will help you navigate the plethora of Free Zones in the UAE, choosing the one that best aligns with your business needs and goals. Once the right Free Zone has been identified, AL DUHA’s suite of services, including Company Setup, PRO Services, IT Solutions, Accounting & Payroll, and Office Spaces, ensures a swift and smooth business setup process. At AL DUHA, we simplify your success.